Core Insights - Coca-Cola reported mixed second-quarter earnings, with revenue of $12.5 billion, slightly missing expectations of $12.55 billion, but earnings per share (EPS) of 87 cents exceeded the expected 83 cents [1][2] Financial Performance - Earnings growth was attributed to strong margin growth, with gross margin up 160 basis points year-over-year and operating margin growth at 36.03%, an increase of 324 basis points [2] - Management anticipates further margin recovery in the second half of the year due to easing input cost inflation and a focus on product mix and volume for revenue growth rather than price-driven growth [3] Stock Forecast - The 12-month stock price forecast for Coca-Cola is $77.13, indicating a potential upside of 10.71% from the current price of $69.67, based on 18 analyst ratings [4] - The stock has been in a consolidation pattern since April and is currently trading near the middle of its 52-week range, with a support level around $68.90 [7][8] Strategic Initiatives - Coca-Cola plans to introduce a cane sugar version of its product as an alternative to high-fructose corn syrup, aligning with a strategy that emphasizes brand over price [5][6] - The company generates significant revenue outside the United States, which helps protect its margins from tariffs and benefits from localized supply chains [10]