Coca-Cola(US:KO) Haitong Securities International·2026-01-18 13:22Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Neutral" rating for Coca-Cola Co (KO US) with a current price of US$70.48 and a target price of US$71.38 [2]. Core Insights - The franchise restructuring is expected to be completed by 2026, aiming for an operating profit margin of 30-35%. Key steps include the sale of a 40% stake in Indian bottling operations and partial interests in African bottling businesses [3][12]. - Coca-Cola China's bottling partners are projected to achieve mid-single-digit revenue growth, supported by significant upgrades to production facilities, including a smart green production base in Guangdong [4][13]. - A smooth CEO transition is anticipated as COO Henrique Braun is set to succeed James Quincey on March 31, 2026, with expectations for continued strategic execution [5][14]. - The company is expected to unlock new growth opportunities in India and enhance its total beverage portfolio through the performance of its protein drink brand, Fairlife [6][15]. Financial Summary - Revenue projections for Coca-Cola are as follows: - 2025: US$48.046 billion - 2026: US$51.221 billion - 2027: US$53.836 billion - Corresponding net profits are projected at US$12.874 billion, US$13.951 billion, and US$14.775 billion for the same years [2][10]. - The diluted EPS is forecasted to be US$2.98 in 2025, US$3.24 in 2026, and US$3.45 in 2027, with a P/E ratio of 24 for 2025 and decreasing to 20 by 2027 [2][10].