Beverages – Soft Drinks
Search documents
PepsiCo's Stock Valuation Looks Attractive: Buy or Wait for Now?
ZACKS· 2026-01-09 18:20
Core Insights - PepsiCo Inc. has experienced a decline in its share price, leading to a price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple below the industry average, reflecting investor concerns about near-term growth and margin pressures [2][7] - Despite these challenges, PepsiCo's current valuation appears attractive for long-term investors, with a forward 12-month P/E of 16.27X, below the industry average of 17.5X [3][4] Valuation Comparison - PepsiCo's P/E ratio of 16.27X is significantly lower than competitors like Coca-Cola (21.51X), Vita Coco (34.75X), and Monster Beverage (33.93X), indicating a valuation discount [4] - The company's forward price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 1.96X is also below the industry average of 4.66X, further suggesting potential value for investors [3] Recent Performance - Over the past month, PepsiCo's shares have declined by 6.9%, underperforming the broader industry and the S&P 500 [5] - The stock has also lagged behind key competitors, with Coca-Cola down 1.2%, while Monster Beverage and Vita Coco saw gains of 1.9% and 3.7%, respectively [5] Market Dynamics - PepsiCo faces near-term pressures from volume softness in its North American segment, cost inflation, and tariff-related supply chain challenges [7][14] - However, the company is seeing recovery in its beverage segment, supported by innovation and strong brand performance, particularly in international markets [15][19] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PepsiCo's 2025 EPS remains unchanged, while the estimate for 2026 EPS has decreased by 0.3%, indicating a decline in analyst confidence regarding growth potential [16] - For 2025, sales are expected to grow by 1.9%, while EPS is projected to decline by 0.5%. For 2026, sales and EPS are estimated to grow by 3.7% and 5.4%, respectively [17] Strategic Initiatives - PepsiCo's management is focused on improving performance in its North American segment through cost reductions, portfolio transformation, and enhanced pricing strategies [18][20] - The company continues to leverage its strong brand portfolio and innovation pipeline to stabilize margins and drive long-term growth [20]
Coca-Cola Trades Below 200-Day SMA: Opportunity or Warning Sign?
ZACKS· 2026-01-07 18:26
Core Viewpoint - The Coca-Cola Company (KO) has experienced a decline in its stock price, falling below key technical indicators, which indicates weakening momentum and investor confidence [1][2][20]. Stock Performance - KO shares have decreased by 3.4% over the past six months, underperforming the Zacks Beverages – Soft Drinks industry, which declined by 1.3%, and the S&P 500, which increased by 13.8% during the same period [6]. - The stock is currently trading at $67.84, which is 11.7% above its 52-week low of $60.71 and 8.8% below its 52-week high of $74.38 [10]. Technical Indicators - The stock fell below its 200-day simple moving average (SMA) on January 5, 2026, closing at $67.94, which is below the 200-day SMA of $68.99, indicating bearish momentum [1][9]. - KO also fell below its 50-day SMA on December 23, 2025, and has remained under this level, suggesting a sustained short-term downtrend [2]. Volume Trends - Volume growth for KO remains fragile, with North America showing flat volumes and declines in the Asia Pacific region due to weaker consumer spending and adverse weather conditions [12][21]. - Europe also experienced volume declines, while Latin America volumes remained flat amid macroeconomic stress in Mexico [12]. Management Outlook - Management has reiterated confidence in full-year guidance, but recent improvements are seen as execution-driven rather than indicative of stronger demand, leading to uncertainty about a sustained rebound [13][21]. - Coca-Cola anticipates tougher volume comparisons in the fourth quarter, which may affect near-term momentum [13]. Valuation Metrics - KO's current forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is 21.04X, which is higher than the industry average of 17.64X, indicating that the stock may be relatively expensive [15][19]. - Compared to its key rival PepsiCo, which has a P/E of 16.23X, KO appears to be trading at a premium [19]. Competitive Landscape - KO's performance is notably weaker than competitors such as PepsiCo, Monster Beverage, and The Vita Coco Company, which have seen stock rallies of 2.9%, 22.9%, and 38.4%, respectively, over the past six months [7][20].
PepsiCo Stock Gains 4% in a Month: Is It a Smart Buy or One to Watch?
ZACKS· 2025-12-11 18:11
Core Insights - PepsiCo Inc. has experienced significant growth, with shares increasing by 3.8% in the past month, driven by strong business momentum across key segments [1][10] - The company reported healthy net revenue growth in Q3 2025, primarily due to the North America beverage business and demand for innovative products [1][10] - PepsiCo's performance has outpaced the broader Beverages – Soft Drinks industry and the Consumer Staples sector [3] Business Performance - The North America beverage segment has shown strong growth, particularly with Trademark Pepsi and innovations like Pepsi Zero Sugar and poppi [11] - International operations have maintained steady organic growth, with strong performance in key regions such as Latin America and Europe [12] - Cost-optimization initiatives have improved operating margins, contributing to overall performance [2][13] Competitive Positioning - PepsiCo's stock has outperformed competitors like Coca-Cola and Primo Brands, which have seen declines in the past month [7] - The current share price of $149.70 is 6.5% below its 52-week high, indicating potential for upside [8] - PepsiCo's P/E ratio of 16.92X is below the industry average and its major competitors, suggesting a potentially attractive valuation [18] Future Outlook - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PepsiCo's 2025 EPS has increased slightly, while the estimate for 2026 has decreased [15] - The company is positioned for sustained organic growth and margin improvement through recent acquisitions and portfolio reshaping [14] - Despite near-term uncertainties, the company's fundamentals are gradually strengthening, making it a potential buy for investors [19][20]
Coca-Cola Stock Rallies 12% in a Year: Wise to Buy or Stay Patient?
ZACKS· 2025-12-10 18:46
Core Insights - The Coca-Cola Company (KO) achieved an 11.9% growth over the past year, outperforming the Beverages – Soft Drinks industry's 4.9% growth and the Consumer Staples sector's 5.9% decline, but lagging behind the S&P 500's 14.9% increase [1][5][20] Financial Performance - In Q3 2025, Coca-Cola reported strong organic revenue growth, steady volume gains, and margin expansion despite facing currency headwinds [5][20] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Coca-Cola's revenues and EPS for 2025 implies year-over-year growth of 2.7% and 3.5%, respectively, while estimates for 2026 suggest growth of 5.6% and 8% [15][20] Competitive Positioning - Coca-Cola has consistently gained value share for 18 consecutive quarters, demonstrating strong execution and brand relevance, outperforming competitors like PepsiCo, Keurig Dr Pepper, and Zevia, which saw declines of 7.8%, 12.6%, and 23.8% respectively [6][12][20] - The company trades at a forward 12-month price-to-sales (P/S) multiple of 5.93X, significantly higher than the industry average of 4.45X, indicating a premium valuation compared to peers [16][17][20] Strategic Initiatives - Coca-Cola's marketing transformation, driven by digital engagement and culturally relevant activations, is enhancing consumer connections [13] - The company's refranchising strategy is improving efficiency and margins while unlocking growth in high-potential regions like India and Africa [14][20] Stock Performance - At a current price of $70.09, KO stock is 15.6% above its 52-week low of $60.62 and 5.8% below its 52-week high of $74.38, trading above its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, indicating bullish sentiment [7][20]
Coca-Cola's Premium Price Tag: Is the Stock Still Worth Buying?
ZACKS· 2025-11-11 19:17
Core Insights - The Coca-Cola Company (KO) has demonstrated strong growth, supported by its market positioning, brand power, and long-term growth potential compared to other non-alcoholic beverage companies [2] - The current forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 22.13X raises concerns about the stock's valuation, as it is significantly higher than the industry average of 17.8X [3] - The price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 5.99X also exceeds the industry's 4.38X, contributing to investor unease, particularly given its Value Score of F [4] Valuation Concerns - Coca-Cola's premium valuation at 22.13X P/E is significantly higher than peers like PepsiCo (16.79X), Keurig Dr Pepper (12.14X), and Primo Brands (10.7X), indicating a potential disconnect between valuation and growth trajectory [6] - The stock's elevated valuation reflects high investor confidence in growth prospects, but it necessitates consistent performance and innovation to justify this premium [7] Growth Drivers - Coca-Cola's strategy of offering diverse beverage options, supported by innovation and digital expansion, is crucial for maintaining its market leadership [8] - Strong third-quarter results and innovation-led growth across categories are driving the stock's momentum, with a diversified portfolio benefiting from balanced pricing actions [9][16] - Emerging markets are a significant growth engine, with double-digit volume expansion supported by affordability initiatives and localized marketing [18] Financial Performance - Year-to-date, Coca-Cola's shares have increased by 13.3%, outperforming the broader industry's 5.7% and the Consumer Staples sector's decline of 1.8%, although it has underperformed the S&P 500's growth of 16.1% [10] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Coca-Cola's 2025 and 2026 EPS has seen upward revisions, indicating confidence in the company's growth trajectory, with expected revenue growth of 2.7% and 5.6% for 2025 and 2026, respectively [20] Investment Outlook - Despite premium valuation concerns, Coca-Cola's resilient business model, strong brand equity, and consistent estimate upgrades suggest it remains a compelling long-term investment for growth-oriented investors [24] - The company's ability to balance premiumization with affordability and its diversified global presence underpin investor confidence and sustained demand [19]
PepsiCo Slips Below 50-Day SMA: Bargain Opportunity or Red Flag?
ZACKS· 2025-11-11 19:11
Core Insights - PepsiCo Inc. (PEP) shares have experienced a decline following the release of its third-quarter 2025 results, indicating a shift in investor sentiment from bullish to bearish [2][3] - The stock closed at $143.60 on November 3, 2025, falling below its 50-day simple moving average (SMA) of $145.5, which is a technical indicator of weakness [2][10] - Despite the recent downturn, PepsiCo's stock remains above its 200-day SMA, suggesting a more favorable long-term outlook [4] Performance Comparison - Over the past month, PepsiCo's stock has declined by 4.2%, contrasting with a 3% growth in the Zacks Beverages – Soft Drinks industry [6] - The stock has underperformed compared to the broader Zacks Consumer Staples sector, which saw a decline of 0.5%, and the S&P 500, which increased by 1.6% [6] - Competitors such as The Coca-Cola Company (KO) and Monster Beverage Corporation (MNST) have seen stock increases of 5.6% and 4.3%, respectively, during the same period [7] Financial Performance - PepsiCo reported a 3% revenue growth in Q3 2025, despite facing cost pressures that impacted profitability [10][12] - The company is currently trading at a forward P/E ratio of 16.79X, which is below the industry average of 17.8X and the S&P 500's average of 23.3X [22][23] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PepsiCo's 2025 sales suggests a year-over-year growth of 1.8%, while EPS is expected to decline by 0.6% [17] Strategic Initiatives - To address operational challenges, PepsiCo is implementing cost-cutting measures, streamlining product offerings, and optimizing its price-pack architecture [14][20] - The company has maintained strong international performance, achieving 18 consecutive quarters of mid-single-digit organic growth [15] - Recent acquisitions and partnerships are aimed at enhancing PepsiCo's presence in functional beverages and healthier snack segments [20][21] Market Outlook - Analysts have revised earnings estimates upward for 2025 and 2026, indicating growing confidence in PepsiCo's growth potential [16] - The company's fundamentals remain robust, with a focus on innovation and structural efficiency to drive long-term growth [21] - Despite short-term headwinds, PepsiCo is positioned for gradual improvement in margins and profitability, making it an attractive opportunity for investors [26][27]
PepsiCo's P/E Valuation Crosses Industry: A Buy Opportunity Knocking?
ZACKS· 2025-09-02 16:56
Core Insights - PepsiCo Inc. has experienced a strong stock rally, with its price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple exceeding the industry average, reflecting increased investor confidence driven by robust revenue growth and recovery signs in North America [1][8] Valuation Metrics - PepsiCo's forward 12-month P/E multiple is 17.93X, slightly above the industry average of 17.75X, while its price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 2.14X remains below the industry's 4.36X [2] - Compared to competitors, PepsiCo's P/E ratio is lower than Coca-Cola's 21.96X and Monster Beverage's 30.23X, but higher than Keurig Dr Pepper's 13.63X [3][4] Stock Performance - Over the past three months, PepsiCo's shares have increased by 12.8%, contrasting with a 3% decline in the broader industry and declines in competitors like Coca-Cola and Monster Beverage [5][8] - The current share price of $148.65 is 17.3% below its 52-week high of $179.73 and 16.5% above its 52-week low of $127.60, indicating bullish sentiment as it trades above its 50 and 200-day moving averages [9][10] Operational Strength - PepsiCo's recent stock momentum is supported by operational improvements, including organic revenue growth driven by international expansion and strong snack volumes [12][17] - The company is focusing on innovation and cost optimization through its "One North America" initiative, which aims to enhance profitability and competitiveness [15][22] Growth Outlook - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a 1.3% year-over-year sales growth for 2025, with a projected decline of 1.8% in EPS, while 2026 estimates suggest 3.2% sales growth and 5.2% EPS growth [19] - Analysts have revised earnings estimates upward, reflecting growing confidence in PepsiCo's growth potential [18] Investment Consideration - PepsiCo's strategic initiatives and operational strengths position it well for sustained growth, making it an attractive option for long-term investors seeking stability with growth potential [22][23]
Coca-Cola Surpasses 50-Day Moving Average: Is This a Buy Opportunity?
ZACKS· 2025-08-13 16:16
Core Viewpoint - The Coca-Cola Company (KO) has experienced significant year-to-date growth, driven by resilient demand, strategic pricing, and recognition of its defensive strengths, leading to a bullish technical outlook for the stock [1][12]. Stock Performance - KO stock has rallied 13.6% year-to-date, outperforming the Zacks Beverages – Soft Drinks industry (6.2%) and the broader Consumer Staples sector (4.9%) [8]. - As of August 8, 2025, KO stock closed at $70.34, surpassing its 50-day simple moving average (SMA) of $70.08, indicating a positive shift in short-term momentum [2][3]. - The stock trades 4.9% below its 52-week high of $74.38 and 16.6% above its 52-week low of $60.62 [9]. Growth Outlook - The growth outlook for 2025-2026 indicates rising sales and earnings, supported by pricing and innovation, with expected revenue and EPS growth of 3.2% and 3.1% year-over-year for 2025, and 5.6% and 8.4% for 2026, respectively [11][19]. - Coca-Cola's strong business fundamentals, including solid organic revenue growth driven by pricing initiatives and product innovation, contribute to its positive outlook [12]. Competitive Position - KO's performance is notably stronger than key competitor PepsiCo Inc. (PEP), which has declined 3.4% year-to-date, and it has also outpaced Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. (KDP) and Monster Beverage Corporation (MNST) [9]. - The company's pricing power has allowed it to offset inflationary impacts while maintaining demand, reflecting its adaptability to local consumer trends [14]. Valuation - KO's current forward P/E ratio of 22.6X is above the industry average of 18.05X, raising concerns about whether the stock's valuation is justified [20][22]. - The premium valuation suggests strong investor expectations for growth, but the stock appears somewhat overvalued compared to peers like PepsiCo and Keurig Dr Pepper [23]. Technical Momentum - The move above the 50-day SMA reinforces KO's strong technical momentum, reflecting sustained investor confidence supported by steady demand and pricing power [25]. - Positive estimate revisions for 2026 earnings further highlight market optimism about the company's growth potential [25].
PepsiCo Stock Shows Renewed Momentum: Buy the Rally or Step Back?
ZACKS· 2025-08-12 16:01
Core Insights - PepsiCo Inc. has experienced an 11.1% share price increase over the past three months, driven by strong second-quarter 2025 results and positive guidance, with revenues and earnings per share exceeding estimates [1][9] - The company aims to maintain global momentum while enhancing performance in North America through strategic priorities such as portfolio innovation and cost optimization [2][11] Financial Performance - PepsiCo's revenue growth of 11% outperformed the broader Beverages – Soft Drinks industry and Consumer Staples sector, which grew by 1.5% each, and also surpassed the S&P 500's growth of 9.3% [3][9] - The current share price of $144.87 is 19.4% below its 52-week high of $179.73, indicating potential for upside [8] Competitive Positioning - PepsiCo's performance is stronger than competitors like Coca-Cola, Keurig Dr Pepper, and Monster Beverage, which saw share price increases of 2.6%, 4.7%, and 5.7% respectively [7] - The company is trading at a forward 12-month P/E multiple of 17.53X, lower than the industry average of 18.03X and the S&P 500's average of 22.69X, suggesting an attractive valuation relative to peers [19] Strategic Initiatives - PepsiCo is focusing on innovation, portfolio evolution, and cost optimization to thrive in both developed and emerging markets, particularly through its "One North America" strategy [11][14] - The company is addressing supply-chain pressures by adjusting sourcing, optimizing manufacturing, and employing automation and digitalization to enhance efficiency [13][14] Analyst Sentiment - Analysts have raised EPS forecasts for 2025 and 2026 by 1.78% and 1.81% respectively, indicating growing confidence in PepsiCo's growth potential [15] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 sales suggests a year-over-year growth of 1.3%, while EPS is expected to decline by 1.8% [16] Investment Outlook - PepsiCo's recent share price rebound reflects strong operational execution and market confidence in its growth strategy, positioning it well to navigate macroeconomic challenges [21][22] - With strong fundamentals and a clear strategic roadmap, PepsiCo is seen as a compelling buy for investors seeking stability and growth potential [23]
Coca-Cola Stock Reflects Modest Growth in 3 Months: Buy Now or Wait?
ZACKS· 2025-07-08 15:56
Core Viewpoint - The Coca-Cola Company (KO) has experienced modest stock performance with a 1.5% increase over the past three months, reflecting investor caution despite stable fundamentals [1][3]. Financial Performance - In the first quarter of fiscal 2025, Coca-Cola reported a 3% organic revenue growth, driven by strong pricing and product mix, although volume growth was slower in North America due to inflation and cautious consumer behavior [2][8][13]. - The company maintained a conservative full-year outlook, indicating potential macroeconomic headwinds and limited near-term earnings acceleration [2][15]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Coca-Cola's 2025 revenues and EPS implies year-over-year growth of 2.5% and 3.1%, respectively, while estimates for 2026 suggest growth of 5.3% and 8.2% [17][18]. Market Position - Coca-Cola's stock has outperformed the Zacks Beverages – Soft Drinks industry, which declined by 0.3% in the same period, but underperformed the broader Zacks Consumer Staples sector and the S&P 500 [3][4]. - The current share price of $71.01 is 4.5% below its 52-week high of $74.38 and 17.1% above its 52-week low of $60.62 [7]. Competitive Landscape - Coca-Cola's performance is weaker compared to Monster Beverage, which saw a 7.6% increase, but it outperformed PepsiCo and Keurig Dr Pepper, which declined by 7.7% and 2.7%, respectively [4][3]. - Coca-Cola trades at a forward P/E of 22.97X, significantly higher than the industry average of 18.66X, raising concerns about whether its valuation is justified [19][21]. Strategic Initiatives - The company is focusing on digital transformation and innovation, with marketing strategies aimed at deepening consumer engagement, particularly in emerging markets [14][15]. - Coca-Cola's ability to maintain pricing strength and product mix without compromising competitiveness highlights the durability of its brand portfolio [13][15]. Investment Outlook - Despite trading at a premium compared to peers, Coca-Cola offers a mix of steady returns, defensive stability, and long-term growth potential, making it a compelling investment option [23][24]. - The stock's premium valuation reflects strong investor expectations for growth, and any market pullbacks may present strategic entry points for investors [22][24].