Elliott takes $4 billion stake in PepsiCo

Activist Investor & Stake - Elliot Management takes a significant $4 billion stake in PepsiCo, becoming one of its largest investors [3] - Elliot's proposal could potentially deliver 50% upside to shareholders [1] - Elliot is among the most feared activist investors in corporate America, often achieving desired changes [7] Performance Concerns & Strategic Review - Pepsi trades at a substantial discount to peers and its historical average valuation [2] - Underperformance is driven by share loss and margin pressure in North American beverages, along with decelerating growth and declining profitability in North American foods [2] - Elliot suggests strategic reviews of the brand portfolio and bottler refranchising for the beverages side (Pepsi, Gatorade, Lipton) [2] - Elliot recommends streamlining and rightsizing the cost basis for the food side (Fritos, Lays, Doritos) [3] Potential Actions & Future Outlook - Strategic review might lead to a company split or separation from underperforming businesses with bolt-on acquisitions [5] - Pepsi is reviewing Elliot's perspectives within its strategy to drive sustainable growth [3] - Elliot has not called for board changes or firings at the executive level at this point [3]