Why Is Kimberly-Clark (KMB) Up 7.3% Since Last Earnings Report?

Core Viewpoint - Kimberly-Clark reported its fourth-quarter 2024 results, meeting earnings estimates but showing a year-over-year decline in earnings and sales, while announcing a dividend increase [2][3][18] Financial Performance - Adjusted earnings were $1.50 per share, in line with estimates, but down 0.7$4,928 million, surpassing the consensus estimate of $4,834.6 million, but down 0.8$2,722 million, a 0.5% decline, while organic sales increased by 1.1% driven by volume growth [10] - International Personal Care segment net sales were $1,375 million, down 1.3$831 million, a 1.2% decline, with organic sales growing by 0.7% [14] Strategic Initiatives - The company highlighted its innovation-driven growth model, which has led to organic sales growth and improved productivity [5][6] - Kimberly-Clark unveiled its "Powering Care" strategy, restructuring into three key segments to enhance operational efficiency [9] Financial Health - The company ended the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $1,021 million and long-term debt of$6,875 million [16] - For the 12 months ended December 31, cash provided by operations was $3,234 million, with capital spending of$721 million [17] Dividend and Shareholder Returns - A quarterly dividend hike of 3.3% to $1.26 per share was announced, marking the 53rd consecutive year of dividend increases [18] Future Outlook - For 2025, organic sales growth is expected to exceed the market average, despite projected adverse impacts from currency rates and divestitures [19][20] - Adjusted earnings per share are forecasted to increase at a mid-to-high single-digit rate on a constant-currency basis [22] Industry Context - Kimberly-Clark is part of the Zacks Consumer Products - Staples industry, with Procter & Gamble reporting a year-over-year revenue increase of 2.1% in its latest quarter [27]