2,200,000,000—that's the number of servings per day of Coca-Cola products consumed worldwide. Keep in mind, we are talking about daily numbers; if you multiply them by 365 days, we get a number that even in a spreadsheet we'dI have been involved in investing for the last 10 years, having studied a finance undergraduate, followed by a Master's in international finance, and finally getting the CFA designation. My current job focuses on advising Ultra High Net Worth individuals on how to construct their long-t ...

Core Viewpoint - Lockheed Martin has faced operational challenges leading to a decline in stock performance, but its long-term value proposition remains strong due to a robust order backlog and strategic importance in the defense sector [2][3][14] Financial Performance - The company reported a pre-tax loss of $1.6 billion in Q2 2025, prompting a reduction in full-year EPS guidance to a range of $21.70 - $22.00 [2][8] - Lockheed Martin's aeronautics division generated $7.4 billion in sales during Q2 2025, with the F-35 Lightning II being a key product [4] - The Missiles and Fire Control segment experienced an 11% year-over-year sales growth, driven by demand for essential tactical weapons [5] Order Backlog and Revenue Visibility - As of Q2 2025, Lockheed Martin reported a total backlog of $166.5 billion, providing exceptional visibility into future revenue [6][7] - This backlog insulates the company from short-term economic volatility, reinforcing its status as a defensive stock [7] Shareholder Returns - The company maintains a dividend yield of 2.86% and has increased its dividend for 22 consecutive years, with an annual dividend of $13.20 [10] - Lockheed Martin's dividend payout ratio stands at 74.32% of earnings but is more sustainable at 38% of cash flow, indicating strong capacity for continued payments [11] - In Q2 2025, the company returned $1.3 billion to shareholders through share repurchases, reducing the number of diluted shares outstanding [12] Analyst Outlook - The consensus 12-month price target for Lockheed Martin is $494.00, suggesting an 8.32% upside from the current price [6][13] - Despite recent challenges, the company is viewed as a core holding for long-term, defense-oriented portfolios due to its strategic product line and commitment to shareholder returns [14]

Group 1 - Walmart Inc. is recognized as a defensive stock, appealing to investors seeking stability amid market volatility [1] - The company demonstrates sustained profitability through strong margins, stable and expanding free cash flow, and high returns on invested capital, which are considered more reliable drivers of returns than valuation alone [1] - The investment strategy focuses on undervalued growth stocks and high-quality dividend growers, indicating a preference for long-term value creation [1] Group 2 - The analyst managing a portfolio on eToro emphasizes the importance of managing investments wisely to ensure financial freedom and the ability to work in fulfilling environments [1]

Core Viewpoint - Kroger's shares surged approximately 10% following the release of its first-quarter earnings for 2025, indicating strong investor confidence in the company's performance [1]. Financial Performance - Kroger reported adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.49 for the three months ending May 24, with total revenue reaching $45.1 billion. The adjusted EPS exceeded Wall Street estimates, while revenue was slightly below expectations [2]. - The company maintained its full-year earnings outlook and raised its full-year revenue outlook, reflecting confidence in its financial trajectory [2]. Sales Guidance - CFO David Kennerley announced an increase in the guidance for identical sales without fuel, now projected to be in the range of 2.25% to 3.25%. This adjustment is based on strong sales results and positive momentum, despite the uncertain macroeconomic environment [4]. Leadership and Market Position - Kroger is currently searching for a new CEO following the resignation of former CEO Rodney McMullen in March, which was linked to personal conduct inconsistent with the company's ethics policy [5]. - The company's forward price-to-earnings multiple of 15 is at the lower end of its peer group, positioning it as a defensive stock in the consumer staples sector, making it an attractive option for investors amid potential economic downturns [5].

Group 1 - The article suggests that recent positive market days do not indicate a reduction in future volatility, and investors should prepare for more turbulence ahead [1] - It emphasizes the importance of due diligence as a strategy to protect investment portfolios against market fluctuations [1] Group 2 - The article does not provide specific company or industry insights, focusing instead on general market behavior and investor strategies [2]