Read This Before Buying PepsiCo Stock

Core Viewpoint - PepsiCo is disappointing investors in 2025, but there is potential for a rebound if an activist investor can implement changes to improve the company's performance [1][3]. Group 1: Financial Performance - PepsiCo's stock is down 2.16% year to date, contrasting sharply with Coca-Cola's 14% increase in the same period [3]. - The company's long-term debt has reached $44.13 billion, reflecting a 14.61% year-over-year increase, which is growing faster than that of Coca-Cola [4]. - Organic sales growth for 2025 has been weak, with global volumes declining in the first three quarters, indicating challenges in pricing strategies amid elevated consumer prices [6]. Group 2: Market Position - PepsiCo has fallen to fourth place in soda popularity, behind Coca-Cola Classic, Dr. Pepper, and Sprite, marking a significant shift from its historical standing [7]. - The company controls 60 brands, and there is potential for streamlining operations by divesting some brands to raise cash and reduce debt [11]. Group 3: Activist Investor Involvement - Elliott Investment Management has taken a $4 billion stake in PepsiCo, indicating a belief in the potential for improvement and change within the company [8]. - Elliott is advocating for PepsiCo to spin off its North American bottling operations, similar to Coca-Cola's strategy, which could enhance profitability [9]. Group 4: Dividend Dependability - PepsiCo has a strong history of over 50 consecutive years of annual dividend increases, which is a key reason some investors remain committed to the stock [12].