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Coca-Cola’s Week in Review: Analysts Raise Price Targets Q4 Beat
Yahoo Finance· 2026-02-15 15:44
Core Viewpoint - Coca-Cola's stock performance has outpaced the S&P 500 and Consumer Staples sector, driven by strong Q4 earnings, a new CEO's innovation strategy, and strategic portfolio moves aimed at growth [2][9]. Earnings Performance - Coca-Cola reported Q4 earnings with an EPS of $0.58, exceeding estimates of $0.56, while revenue was $11.8 billion, slightly below expectations. Organic revenue growth was 5%, and unit volume increased by 1%, indicating sustained demand despite consumer spending pressures [3]. Analyst Upgrades - Following the earnings report, UBS raised its price target for Coca-Cola from $82 to $87, citing the stability of the company's core business fundamentals. TD Cowen and BofA Securities reaffirmed their Buy ratings, with the consensus price target now at $82.28, supported by 19 Buy or Strong Buy ratings against five Holds [4]. Growth Drivers - Analysts express confidence in Coca-Cola's margin expansion potential and the momentum of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, which grew by 13% in volume. Management has guided for 4-5% organic revenue growth and 7-8% EPS growth for 2026, although the EPS outlook is below consensus [5]. New CEO's Strategy - Henrique Braun, set to become CEO on March 31, has indicated that current innovation efforts are inadequate and has committed to accelerating product launches and enhancing consumer engagement [6]. Organizational Changes - The company plans to create a Chief Digital Officer role and establish regional excellence hubs to enhance local market decision-making. Braun's billion-dollar brand strategy aims to identify and scale emerging local brands globally [7]. Product Innovations - Recent product announcements include the expansion of the cherry-flavored line with a Cherry Float variant and the introduction of 7.5-ounce mini cans, designed as affordable options for convenience stores, addressing consumer spending pressures without direct price cuts [8].