Kroger's NYSE: KR stock price has struggled since early 2022 when the pandemic-driven bubble burst. There are still hurdles, including the stalled merger with Albertsons Companies NYSE: ACI, but they are diminishing, and investors are faced with a win-win situation regardless of them. The company has been building capital and improving its balance sheet for nearly two years, setting it up for a smooth closing and accelerated growth when the Albertsons deal is closed or accelerating capital returns if blocke ...