Coca-Cola(US:KO) The Motley Fool·2026-02-17 01:13Core Viewpoint - Coca-Cola's stock is positioned for steady income, but new leadership may drive growth and innovation in the company [1] Leadership Changes - Chief Operating Officer Henrique Braun will become CEO on March 31, and a new Chief Digital Officer position has been created, held by Sedef Salıngan Şahin, to enhance the company's digital strategy [2][3] Brand Strength - Coca-Cola is one of the strongest global brands, with products that maintain customer loyalty across generations, providing a significant competitive advantage [4] Diversified Portfolio - The company offers a wide range of products beyond soda, including sports beverages, energy drinks, bottled water, coffee, and tea, which helps it adapt to changing consumer behaviors [5] Dividend Reliability - Coca-Cola is classified as a Dividend King, having paid dividends for over 50 consecutive years, currently distributing $0.51 per share quarterly, making it a reliable choice for income investors [6] Free Cash Flow - Strong free cash flow supports consistent dividends and allows for strategic acquisitions, enhancing shareholder value despite the company not being a high-growth entity [7] Defensive Stock Characteristics - Coca-Cola's stock exhibits lower volatility with a beta of 0.36, making it resilient during economic downturns, as evidenced by its long history [9] Total Return Potential - The company anticipates a growth rate of 4% to 5% for 2026, which, while modest, aligns with investor expectations for steady income and mid-single-digit growth, making it a foundational holding for long-term portfolios [10]