Monster(MNST) MarketBeat·2025-03-04 12:02Core Viewpoint - Monster Beverage faces challenges in its alcohol segment, which is contracting, necessitating rationalization and potentially impacting shareholder value [1] - Despite these headwinds, strong performance in other segments and solid operations present a compelling investment opportunity [2][5] Financial Performance - In Q4, Monster Beverage reported a revenue growth of 4.6%, although it missed consensus on earnings per share (EPS), delivering 56.47, indicating a 2.36% upside, with a high forecast of 40.00 [6] - Analysts show a high conviction in their Hold rating, with 52% rating it as Buy, and price targets are on the rise [3][6] Segment Performance - The Monster segment grew by 7.6%, with an 11.1% increase internationally, while the alcohol segment contracted by 0.8% [6] - The company is experiencing margin pressures, with gross margin gains offset by increased costs and expenses [7] Cash Flow and Shareholder Returns - Cash flow remains solid, supporting balance sheet health and capital returns in 2025, with $500 million left under the current share repurchase authorization [8] - The share count has been reduced by 4.2%, contributing to shareholder value [8] Institutional Support - Institutional buying has provided a tailwind for Monster Beverage stock, with institutions owning over 72% of the stock [10] - Institutional activity has ramped to a two-year high, indicating strong support for the stock [10] Long-term Outlook - The long-term outlook for Monster Beverage is bullish, with expectations of consistent high-single-digit revenue growth and leveraged earnings growth [12] - The P/E ratio is projected to fall below 10x in under a decade, suggesting the stock is deeply undervalued [12]