Morgan Stanley Sees Cocoa Price Relief Improving EPS Visibility at Mondelez (MDLZ)

Core Viewpoint - Mondelez International, Inc. is positioned favorably in the market with strong cash returns to shareholders and improved EPS visibility due to declining cocoa prices, despite facing challenges from cocoa cost inflation [2][3][4]. Group 1: Financial Performance and Shareholder Returns - Mondelez has a robust history of returning cash to shareholders, with dividends growing at an annual rate above 10% over the past five years [3]. - The company has repurchased over $13 billion of its own shares since 2018, reducing the share count by approximately 15% [3]. - Morgan Stanley raised its price target for Mondelez to $65, indicating positive sentiment towards the stock [2]. Group 2: Market Challenges and Opportunities - The recent decline in cocoa prices is seen as beneficial for Mondelez, enhancing visibility into earnings per share forecasts [2]. - However, the company has warned that unprecedented cocoa cost inflation could potentially reduce adjusted earnings per share by up to 15% in 2025 [4]. - Mondelez operates from a position of financial strength, supported by its diverse geographic presence and established brand portfolio amid economic uncertainties [4]. Group 3: Company Overview - Mondelez International, Inc. is recognized as one of the largest snack companies globally, with a diverse portfolio that includes biscuits, chocolate, cakes, pastries, snack bars, and candy [5].