Walmart's Dream of AI Glasses: $170 Billion Vanished in a Day

Shares of Warby Parker Inc. (NYSE: WRBY) closed at $21.86 on the New York Stock Exchange on the 3rd, down 5.29%. The company’s market capitalization stood at about $2.334 billion—roughly KRW 3.4 trillion—meaning approximately $117 million (KRW 170 billion) was wiped out in a single day. All figures assume an exchange rate of KRW 1,475 per U.S. dollar.

In its February 26 release of full-year 2025 results, Warby Parker reported annual revenue of $871.9 million, up 13% year-over-year, and achieved its first full-year net profit since inception, recording $1.6 million. The company also provided 2026 revenue guidance of $959 million to $976 million, representing 10%–12% growth. Further strengthening its finance and strategy leadership in line with new-category expansion such as AI-enabled eyewear, the company appointed former Macy’s executive Adrian Mitchell as chief financial officer effective February 10.

Founded in the U.S. in 2010 as a direct-to-consumer eyewear brand, Warby Parker grew by combining online and offline retail in an omnichannel model and promoting its “buy one, give one” social impact program. It went public via a direct listing on the NYSE in 2021. More recently, through partnerships with the likes of Google, it has pursued smart and AI-powered eyewear, positioning itself as a lifestyle platform that integrates design, technology, and healthcare.