Our growth was led by continued strong sales and profitability in our direct-to-consumer channel, up 9%, fueled by strong comp growth as well as solid performance in global wholesale. Our largest market, the US, grew 3%, and our international business was up 9%, led by an acceleration in Asia. And we continue to see robust performance in our core as well as outsized growth in our key focus areas like women's and tops. The results we've delivered this quarter against an increasingly complex backdrop are yet ...

Core Viewpoint - Colgate-Palmolive Company's stock performance indicates strong investor confidence, with a 7.2% increase in the past month, outperforming the industry and broader market indices [1][2]. Stock Performance - The company's shares have outperformed the industry growth of 4.8%, the Consumer Staples sector's decline of 1.9%, and the S&P 500's slight decline, showcasing resilience in a challenging market [1]. Growth Drivers - Key factors contributing to Colgate's stock momentum include effective pricing strategies, strong brand equity, innovation, and cost-saving initiatives [3][4]. - The company is focusing on premiumization in oral care and pet nutrition, alongside geographic diversification, which has positively impacted its sales [3]. Innovation and Strategy - Colgate has experienced strong business momentum, leading to higher organic sales driven by increased volume and improved pricing [4]. - The company is investing in digital, data, and analytics to enhance its competitive edge and profitability, with a strategy centered on core and premium innovations [5]. - Colgate's innovation strategy includes expanding into adjacent categories and enhancing its Oral Care portfolio with premium products [6]. Market Expansion - Beyond oral care, Colgate is growing its Naturals and Therapeutics divisions and has acquired Hello Products LLC, which supports its market share gains in specialty channels [7]. - The company has revamped its innovation model and invested in marketing to strengthen brand health and household penetration [7]. Future Outlook - Colgate is optimistic about its growth prospects, expecting consistent compounded earnings-per-share (EPS) growth in 2025 and beyond, with projected organic sales growth within the long-term target range of 3-5% [8][10]. - The company anticipates gross profit margin expansion and mid-single-digit growth in Base Business EPS for 2025 [10]. Challenges - Colgate faces challenges such as macroeconomic instability, inflationary pressures, and foreign currency headwinds, which have impacted profitability [12][13]. - In North America, net sales declined due to decreased pricing despite increased volume, while Latin America experienced unfavorable currency impacts [12][13]. Investment Perspective - Colgate's strong pricing strategies and innovation-driven approach position it well for long-term growth, making the stock attractive for long-term investors [14]. - However, ongoing macroeconomic challenges present near-term risks, leading to a recommendation for current investors to retain their positions while new investors may wait for a more favorable entry point [14].