Bull of the Day: Monster Beverage (MNST)

Core Insights - Monster Beverage Corp. is experiencing record revenue in 2025 due to strong demand for energy drinks, making it one of the best-performing S&P 500 stocks over the last 30 years [1][10][12] Financial Performance - In Q3 2025, Monster Beverage reported earnings of $0.56, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.48, with net sales increasing 16.8% to a record $2.2 billion from $1.88 billion a year ago [3][10] - The Monster Energy Drinks segment saw net sales rise 17.7% to $2.03 billion from $1.72 billion in the prior year's quarter [4] - The Strategic Brands segment's net sales increased 15.9% to $130.5 million from $112.6 million a year ago [4] - The Other segment's net sales rose 14.4% to $6.8 million from $5.9 million a year ago, while the Alcohol Brands segment experienced a decline of 17% to $33 million from $39.8 million [5] Growth Drivers - The Monster Energy Ultra drinks significantly contributed to growth, with net sales outside the U.S. rising 23.3%, accounting for about 43% of total net sales, up from 40% in the previous year [6] - A new product launch, FLRT, aimed at female consumers, is scheduled for late Q1 2026 [7] Analyst Sentiment - Analysts have raised earnings estimates for 2025 and 2026, with the Zacks Consensus for 2025 increasing to $1.98 from $1.91, indicating a growth of 22.2% compared to $1.62 in 2024 [8][10] - For 2026, nine estimates were raised in the last 60 days, reflecting positive sentiment [9] Market Performance - Year-to-date, Monster Beverage's stock is up 39.7%, outperforming the S&P 500 ETF, which is up 17.6% [15] - The company has a forward P/E ratio of 37, indicating it is considered expensive, but it is viewed as a growth story [15] Shareholder Actions - Monster Beverage has initiated a $500 million share repurchase program, although it does not pay dividends [15]