JD.com vs Ross
Major Chinese online retailer with delivery network vs Major off-price apparel and home goods retailer. Which is the better buy for your portfolio in September 2026? Plain-English answer below.
JD.com runs one of China's largest e-commerce platforms with its own nationwide logistics and fulfillment network, competing on delivery speed and product authenticity in a market where trust is a genuine competitive moat. Ross Stores chains the off-price retail formula perfected by TJX, buying excess branded inventory cheap and selling it to bargain-hunting shoppers across thousands of U.S. stores. Both businesses thrive by solving a value equation for consumers, but JD.com operates in a hyper-competitive, capital-heavy logistics race while Ross wins by staying lean, avoiding e-commerce overinvestment, and delivering the thrill of the treasure hunt. The JD.com vs Ross comparison puts two contrasting value-retail philosophies side by side to see which approach produces more durable economics.
JD.com runs one of China's largest e-commerce platforms with its own nationwide logistics and fulfillment network, competing on delivery speed and product authenticity in a market where trust is a gen...
Why Itâs Moving
JD shares find sector support, but a Dada accounting settlement keeps governance risks in focus.
- JD.com affiliate Dada Nexus agreed to pay a $500,000 civil penalty to settle SEC claims that sham advertising and marketing transactions overstated more than $160 million in revenue and operating costs during 2022â2023.
- The accounting issue adds a governance and reporting overhang to JDâs investment case, although the settlement did not impose a direct penalty on JD.com and Dada said it cooperated with the investigation and strengthened internal controls.
- JD shares participated in a broader September 18 rebound across Chinese internet stocks, suggesting part of the latest move reflects sector rotation and improved sentiment around China technology rather than a new JD-specific operating catalyst.
Ross Stores Gains Value Momentum Amid Board Changes and Strong Closeout Supply
- value-focused strategies and improving estimates are positioning Ross Stores alongside Dollar General and Dollar Tree for potential near-term growth.
- The retailer is benefiting from strong closeout supply and brand availability, drawing shoppers away from rivals amid a broader shift toward consumer staples over discretionary spending.
- Board of Directors changes announced on September 17 will take effect October 1, signaling a governance update during a period of competitive market share gains.
JD shares find sector support, but a Dada accounting settlement keeps governance risks in focus.
- JD.com affiliate Dada Nexus agreed to pay a $500,000 civil penalty to settle SEC claims that sham advertising and marketing transactions overstated more than $160 million in revenue and operating costs during 2022â2023.
- The accounting issue adds a governance and reporting overhang to JDâs investment case, although the settlement did not impose a direct penalty on JD.com and Dada said it cooperated with the investigation and strengthened internal controls.
- JD shares participated in a broader September 18 rebound across Chinese internet stocks, suggesting part of the latest move reflects sector rotation and improved sentiment around China technology rather than a new JD-specific operating catalyst.
Ross Stores Gains Value Momentum Amid Board Changes and Strong Closeout Supply
- value-focused strategies and improving estimates are positioning Ross Stores alongside Dollar General and Dollar Tree for potential near-term growth.
- The retailer is benefiting from strong closeout supply and brand availability, drawing shoppers away from rivals amid a broader shift toward consumer staples over discretionary spending.
- Board of Directors changes announced on September 17 will take effect October 1, signaling a governance update during a period of competitive market share gains.
Investment Analysis
JD.com
JD
Pros
- JD.com operates a large-scale, technology-driven e-commerce platform with a hybrid direct-sales and marketplace model, supporting strong consumer trust in product quality and delivery.
- The company has demonstrated robust earnings growth, with analysts forecasting over 40% year-on-year profit growth for 2026, supported by a forward P/E below 9x.
- JD.com maintains a leading position in China's retail sector, with active customers exceeding 580 million and revenue comparable to major global retailers.
Considerations
- JD.com's gross margin is relatively low at around 8%, reflecting its capital-intensive direct-sales model and competitive pricing pressures.
- The company faces intense competition from Alibaba and PDD, which have captured significant market share through different business models and aggressive discounting.
- JD.com's valuation, while lower than peers, is sensitive to macroeconomic conditions and regulatory changes in China's e-commerce sector.
Ross
ROST
Pros
- Ross Stores operates a large network of off-price retail stores across the US, benefiting from strong brand recognition and a loyal customer base in the apparel and home fashion sector.
- The company has consistently delivered solid profitability, with a trailing P/E ratio of 24.77, which is below its long-term historical average, suggesting relative value.
- Ross Stores has a proven track record of disciplined expansion and efficient inventory management, supporting steady revenue growth and margin stability.
Considerations
- Ross Stores' business model is highly dependent on consumer discretionary spending, making it vulnerable to economic downturns and shifts in consumer behaviour.
- The company's growth prospects are limited by market saturation in the US off-price retail segment, constraining new store openings and same-store sales growth.
- Ross Stores does not pay a dividend, which may be a drawback for income-focused investors seeking regular returns.
JD.com (JD) Next Earnings Date
JD.com (NASDAQ: JD) is expected to release its next earnings report on November 12, 2026. The report is expected to cover the third quarter of fiscal 2026. The date remains an estimate pending formal confirmation by the company.
Ross (ROST) Next Earnings Date
Ross Stores (ROST) is currently expected to report its next earnings on November 19, 2026. The report is expected to cover the companyâs fiscal third quarter of 2026, ending October 31. The date remains an estimate because Ross Stores has not yet formally confirmed the reporting schedule.
JD.com (JD) Next Earnings Date
JD.com (NASDAQ: JD) is expected to release its next earnings report on November 12, 2026. The report is expected to cover the third quarter of fiscal 2026. The date remains an estimate pending formal confirmation by the company.
Ross (ROST) Next Earnings Date
Ross Stores (ROST) is currently expected to report its next earnings on November 19, 2026. The report is expected to cover the companyâs fiscal third quarter of 2026, ending October 31. The date remains an estimate because Ross Stores has not yet formally confirmed the reporting schedule.
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