3 Surprising Reasons to Not Buy Coca-Cola Stock

Core Viewpoint - Coca-Cola stock is not recommended for purchase despite its historical performance and dividend track record, suggesting it is a hold at best [1][2][16]. Group 1: Dividend Analysis - Coca-Cola has increased its dividend for 63 consecutive years, achieving Dividend King status, which is a significant accomplishment [4]. - The current annual payout is $2.04 per share, providing a dividend yield of just above 3%, which is attractive compared to the average S&P 500 yield of less than 1.2% [5]. - However, PepsiCo offers a higher dividend yield of 3.9%, making it a more appealing choice for income-oriented investors [6]. Group 2: Stock Performance - Coca-Cola has underperformed the S&P 500 in total returns over most time periods since 1990, despite having a higher return for parts of the current year [8]. - The company's growth is limited due to its extensive global presence, leading to revenue growth that rarely exceeds single-digit rates [10][11]. - The current P/E ratio of 24 is slightly below its five-year average of 27, but given the slower revenue growth, it may not be an attractive investment [12]. Group 3: Berkshire Hathaway's Position - Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway has held Coca-Cola shares since 1988, which may lead some investors to consider the stock [13]. - However, Berkshire has not bought or sold Coca-Cola shares since 1994, indicating a lack of recent interest in the stock [14]. - Berkshire's substantial dividend income from its Coca-Cola shares, amounting to $816 million this year, contrasts with the lower yield available to new shareholders [15]. Group 4: Conclusion - Given the challenges outlined, including competition from PepsiCo and limited growth prospects, Coca-Cola stock is not recommended for new purchases [16][17].