Some analysts view Starbucks stock forecast cautiously due to rising labor costs, with wage inflation across U.S. cafes expected to lift operating expenses by 4% in The government shutdown means a delay in government reports, including today’s weekly jobless claims report and Friday’s monthly payroll report. A prolonged shutdown could also delay the government’s inflation data, scheduled for release on October 15. Beyond earnings, Starbucks faces fresh legal risks. Workers in Illinois, California, and Colorado filed lawsuits alleging the company failed to reimburse dress-code-related expenses, including apparel and accessories, potentially violating state labor laws. These disputes add to ongoing labor tensions, as Starbucks Workers United continues to push for contracts across hundreds of stores. Rising wage and benefit costs—already cited as a margin drag in the last earnings report—remain a structural headwind. Starbucks stock forecast momentum could be fueled by partnerships with delivery apps, with U.S. mobile order share hitting 28% of total transactions.