NEW YORK, Aug. 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) today announced the election of Jennifer K. Mann, Executive Vice President and President, North America Operating Unit of The Coca-Cola Company, to the Verizon Board of Directors, effective immediately. “Jennifer is a highly accomplished leader who brings to Verizon a wealth of consumer, marketing, brand management and strategic planning expertise acquired during her 28-year career at Coca-Cola,” said Verizon Chairman ...

Core Insights - Zacks Premium provides various tools for investors to enhance their stock market strategies and confidence [1] - The Zacks Style Scores are designed to help investors select stocks with the highest potential to outperform the market in the short term [2] Zacks Style Scores Overview - Stocks are rated based on value, growth, and momentum characteristics, with scores ranging from A to F, where A indicates the highest potential for outperformance [3] - The Value Score focuses on identifying undervalued stocks using financial ratios like P/E and Price/Sales [4] - The Growth Score emphasizes a company's financial health and future growth potential, analyzing projected and historical earnings [5] - The Momentum Score identifies stocks with favorable price trends, utilizing recent price changes and earnings estimate revisions [6] - The VGM Score combines the three Style Scores to highlight stocks with attractive value, growth forecasts, and momentum [6] Zacks Rank and Performance - The Zacks Rank is a proprietary model that uses earnings estimate revisions to simplify portfolio building [7] - Stocks rated 1 (Strong Buy) have historically achieved an average annual return of +23.75% since 1988, significantly outperforming the S&P 500 [8] - Investors are encouraged to select stocks with a Zacks Rank of 1 or 2 and Style Scores of A or B for optimal success [10] Company Spotlight: Monster Beverage Corporation - Monster Beverage Corporation, based in Corona, CA, is a prominent marketer and distributor of energy drinks [12] - Currently rated 3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, Monster Beverage has a VGM Score of B [12] - The company is appealing to growth investors, with a Growth Style Score of A and a projected year-over-year earnings growth of 17.3% for the current fiscal year [13] - Recent upward revisions in earnings estimates by analysts indicate a positive outlook, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate rising to $1.90 per share [13]

Core Insights - The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. is expected to report declines in both net sales and earnings for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025, with net sales estimated at $3.4 billion, reflecting a 12.2% decrease year-over-year [1][9] - The earnings consensus for the fourth quarter has risen by 2 cents to 8 cents per share, indicating an 87.5% decline compared to the previous year [2][9] - The company is facing challenges due to weak consumer sentiment in Mainland China and a downturn in global travel retail, impacting the prestige beauty sector [3][4] Sales and Earnings Expectations - The anticipated organic net sales decline for the fourth quarter is projected at 13.4%, following a 28% drop in Asia travel retail during the third quarter [4] - Retailer destocking across various regions, including Asia-Pacific and North America, is expected to further pressure sales despite gradual improvements in retail trends outside of travel retail [4] Operating Expenses and Profitability - The Estee Lauder Companies has experienced a significant increase in operating expenses, which rose by 580 basis points as a percentage of sales in the fiscal third quarter, primarily due to investments aimed at growth [5] - Any potential deleverage in operating expenses may negatively impact profit margins [5] Strategic Initiatives - The company is implementing a Profit Recovery and Growth Plan focused on margin expansion, targeted investments, and process simplification to enhance agility [6] - An expanded presence in high-growth digital channels and positioning in emerging markets are seen as positive factors that may support performance in the fourth quarter [6] Earnings Prediction - The company's earnings model suggests a likelihood of an earnings beat, supported by a positive Earnings ESP of +36.11% and a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [7]

Core Insights - Monster Beverage reported revenue of $2.11 billion for the quarter ended June 2025, reflecting an 11.1% increase year-over-year and a surprise of +1.35% over the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.08 billion [1] - The company's EPS for the quarter was $0.52, up from $0.41 in the same quarter last year, resulting in an EPS surprise of +8.33% compared to the consensus estimate of $0.48 [1] Revenue Breakdown - Geographic Revenue from outside the United States was $864.2 million, exceeding the average estimate of $837.91 million, with a year-over-year increase of +23% [4] - Geographic Revenue from the U.S. and Canada reached $1.3 billion, slightly above the estimated $1.28 billion, marking an 8.6% increase compared to the previous year [4] - Net Sales from Alcohol Brands were $37.97 million, slightly below the average estimate of $38.15 million, showing a year-over-year decline of -8.6% [4] - Net Sales from Strategic Brands amounted to $129.89 million, surpassing the estimated $124.89 million, with an 18.9% increase year-over-year [4] - Net Sales from Monster Energy Drinks were $1.94 billion, exceeding the estimated $1.85 billion, reflecting an 11.2% increase compared to the same quarter last year [4] - Net Sales from Other categories were $6.41 million, below the average estimate of $7.25 million, representing a year-over-year decline of -8.5% [4] Stock Performance - Over the past month, Monster Beverage shares have returned +2.8%, outperforming the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +1.9% change [3] - The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), indicating expected performance in line with the broader market in the near term [3]

Core Viewpoint - Monster Beverage Corporation reported record net sales for the second quarter of 2025, exceeding $2.0 billion for the first time, driven by strong performance across its energy drink segments and product innovations [10][16]. Financial Performance - Net sales for the second quarter of 2025 increased by 11.1% to $2.11 billion, compared to $1.90 billion in the same period last year [2][10]. - On a foreign currency adjusted basis, net sales increased by 11.4% in the second quarter of 2025 [2][10]. - For the six months ended June 30, 2025, net sales rose by 4.4% to $3.97 billion from $3.80 billion in the comparable period last year [18]. Segment Performance - The Monster Energy® Drinks segment saw net sales increase by 11.2% to $1.94 billion in the second quarter of 2025, up from $1.74 billion in the previous year [4][10]. - The Strategic Brands segment, which includes energy drink brands acquired from The Coca-Cola Company, reported an 18.9% increase in net sales to $129.9 million for the second quarter of 2025 [5][10]. - The Alcohol Brands segment experienced a decline of 8.6% in net sales, totaling $38.0 million for the second quarter of 2025 [6][10]. Profitability Metrics - Gross profit as a percentage of net sales increased to 55.7% in the second quarter of 2025, up from 53.6% in the same quarter of 2024 [9][10]. - Operating income for the second quarter of 2025 rose by 19.8% to $631.6 million, compared to $527.2 million in the second quarter of 2024 [14][10]. - Net income for the second quarter of 2025 increased by 14.9% to $488.8 million, up from $425.4 million in the same quarter of 2024 [15][10]. International Sales - Net sales to customers outside the United States increased by 15.8% to $864.2 million in the second quarter of 2025, compared to $746.0 million in the second quarter of 2024 [8][10]. Cost Management - Distribution expenses for the second quarter of 2025 were $82.0 million, or 3.9% of net sales, down from 4.6% in the same quarter of 2024 [11][10]. - Selling expenses decreased to 9.3% of net sales in the second quarter of 2025, compared to 10.1% in the same quarter of 2024 [11][10]. Shareholder Returns - As of August 6, 2025, approximately $500.0 million remained available for repurchase under the company's previously authorized share repurchase program [22].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the second quarter, net sales grew by 10.1% to $44.5 million, marking a significant increase compared to the previous year [7][18] - Adjusted EBITDA improved by $4.6 million to $200,000, representing the first profitable quarter since going public [21] - Gross margin increased to 48.7%, up from 41.9% in the same quarter last year, reflecting lower product costs and improved inventory management [18][19] - Net loss was reduced to $700,000 from $7 million in the prior year, showing a substantial improvement [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The marketing campaign "Get the Fake Out of Here" contributed to double-digit growth, with notable engagement and impressions [8] - New flavor launches, particularly strawberry lemon burst and orange creamsicle, have driven excitement and sales velocities [9][10] - Distribution surpassed historical peak levels, with strong performance in key retail accounts [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Strong performance was noted at Walmart, with the first variety pack being the top-selling SKU [12] - Positive scan data in the grocery channel indicated strong performance across key retailers [12] - In the club channel, Zevia returned to rotation in key Costco regions, exceeding expectations [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on three strategic growth pillars: marketing, product innovation, and distribution [5][14] - Continued emphasis on expanding distribution and enhancing brand visibility through innovative marketing strategies [6][14] - The company aims to capitalize on the growing "better for you" soda category, positioning itself for long-term profitable growth [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism due to an uncertain macro environment but remains focused on executing strategic initiatives [22] - The outlook for full-year net sales is maintained at $158 million to $163 million, with adjusted EBITDA loss expected to range from $7 million to $9 million [22][23] - Management highlighted the importance of balancing short-term marketing investments with long-term brand building [56] Other Important Information - The company identified an additional $5 million in cost savings expected to be realized in 2026, bringing total anticipated savings to $20 million [17] - A one-time charge of $500,000 related to packaging redesign will impact Q3 adjusted EBITDA [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: What drove the strong sales in the quarter? - Management noted balanced growth from new distribution at Walmart and positive momentum in grocery channels, with new items contributing to incremental distribution [25][28] Question: Can you elaborate on the productivity initiative and the $5 million in gains? - Management indicated that efficiencies are being found within the supply chain and product portfolio simplification, with savings expected to begin in Q4 of this year [31][32] Question: What is the outlook for Q4 given the current guidance? - Management expressed caution due to a substantial Walmart pipeline fill in the previous year, which may lead to flat growth in Q4 [35][38] Question: How should tariffs be considered moving forward? - Management confirmed an estimated 200 basis point impact on gross margins due to tariffs, with more material impacts expected starting in Q3 [39][42] Question: What factors contributed to the increase in household penetration and purchase frequency? - Increased visibility in the marketplace and successful new flavor launches were cited as key contributors to the uptick in consumer metrics [45][46] Question: How is the company balancing improved EBITDA with marketing reinvestment? - Management emphasized the importance of both long-term brand building and short-term velocity driving tactics, aiming for sustainable growth [54][56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated volume declined 5.5% to 1,035,000 unit cases, driven by declines in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and Panama, partially offset by growth in Argentina, Uruguay, Guatemala, and other Central American territories [8] - Total revenues grew 5% to COP72.9 billion, with a 2.4% increase on a neutral currency basis [9] - Gross profit increased 3.4% to MXN33 billion, with a margin contraction of 70 basis points to 45.3% [9] - Operating income remained flat at COP9.7 billion, with an OI margin contracting 60 basis points to 13.4% [10] - Adjusted EBITDA decreased 3.8% to MXN13.4 billion, with an EBITDA margin contraction of 160 basis points to 18.4% [10] - Majority net income decreased 5.3% to MXN5.3 billion, primarily due to increased comprehensive financial results from higher interest expenses and a lower foreign exchange gain [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Mexico, volume declined 10%, cycling a historic second quarter from the previous year that grew 7.9% [11] - In Guatemala, volumes increased 1.6% to 51.3 million unit cases, with a 10,000 new customer increase [17] - In Brazil, volumes declined 1.5% year on year, cycling strong 12.1% growth from last year [19] - In Colombia, volumes declined 2.8% year on year, while in Argentina, volumes increased 11.9% [22][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Mexico faced a softer macroeconomic backdrop and adverse weather, impacting consumer behavior [7] - Brazil's volume performance was affected by colder temperatures, particularly in June [19] - Argentina's macro indicators improved, with monthly inflation below 2%, fostering a disciplined financial surplus policy [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on long-term sustainable growth, with investments in capacity expansions [7] - Key initiatives include improving customer service metrics and enhancing productivity [14][15] - The company is leveraging affordability initiatives in response to negative consumer sentiment in Mexico [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged a challenging first half of the year but remains optimistic about long-term perspectives [7] - The outlook for the second half of the year is cautious, with expectations of a more complex scenario due to economic factors [41] - Management is focused on leveraging local initiatives to recover momentum in the second half of 2025 [24] Other Important Information - The company completed key projects and began additional capacity initiatives during the first half of the year [15] - The Porto Alegre plant has returned to 100% capacity, with a full portfolio of SKUs restored [67][69] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for the second half of the year and market share in Mexico - Management discussed a cautious outlook for the second half, with market share in modern trade above last year but below in traditional trade [41][43] Question: Performance in Brazil and channel specifics - Management indicated that weather was a key driver of performance in Brazil, with expectations for a rebound in volumes [44][45] Question: Pricing mix in Mexico and Brazil - Management noted that pricing held well in Mexico despite promotional spending, with a cautious pricing stance expected for the end of the year [49][54] Question: CapEx investments and updates on the Porto Alegre plant - Management confirmed commitment to structural capacity investments while adjusting volume-linked CapEx as needed [62][66] Question: Interest expense and leverage position - Management acknowledged higher interest expenses due to new financing and higher rates in Brazil, with expectations for balance sheet adjustments in the future [92][95]

Core Insights - Evolving consumer lifestyles are driving demand for energy drinks, positioning Celsius Holdings, Inc. (CELH) to capitalize on market trends through strategic acquisitions, product innovations, digital marketing, and global expansion [1][9] Company Developments - The acquisition of Alani Nu, completed in April, is expected to enhance Celsius's position in the modern energy category, contributing to approximately 20% of the overall energy drink category dollar growth in Q1 2025 [2] - Celsius is diversifying its product offerings beyond traditional canned drinks with innovations such as Celsius Essentials and CELSIUS Hydration powder sticks, which help maintain consumer engagement [3][9] - The "LIVE FIT" campaign aims to tap into lifestyle-driven trends, promoting energy drinks that support a balanced lifestyle and targeting the female consumer segment to drive future growth [4] Competitive Landscape - Celsius faces competition from PepsiCo and Monster Beverage, both of which are adapting their product portfolios to meet evolving consumer preferences [5][6][7] - PepsiCo is focusing on zero-sugar offerings and functional hydration products, while Monster Beverage continues to see growth in the energy drink market, with a 2.2% increase in sales in Q1 2025 [6][7] Financial Performance - Celsius shares have increased by 65% year-to-date, contrasting with a 3.3% decline in the industry [8] - The company trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 43.99X, significantly higher than the industry average of 16.13X [10] - Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates year-over-year earnings per share (EPS) growth of 17.1% for 2025 and 41.5% for 2026, with recent upward revisions in EPS estimates [11]

Core Insights - Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. (KDP) is expected to report second-quarter 2025 results on July 24, with projected revenues of $4.14 billion, reflecting a 5.5% increase year-over-year [1] - The consensus estimate for KDP's earnings per share (EPS) is 49 cents, indicating an 8.9% growth from the previous year's 45 cents [2] Revenue and Earnings Expectations - KDP's second-quarter revenue is anticipated to be $4.14 billion, up 5.5% from the same period last year [1][8] - The expected EPS of 49 cents represents an 8.9% increase compared to the prior-year quarter [2][8] Segment Performance - The U.S. Refreshment Beverages segment is projected to be a key growth driver, with sales expected to reach $804 million, a 12.8% year-over-year increase [6] - The carbonated soft drinks (CSD) category, including brands like Dr Pepper and Canada Dry, is gaining market share due to innovations [5] - The Coffee segment is forecasted to see a decline in unit sales by 10.8% due to inflation and weak demand [8][9] Strategic Initiatives - KDP's strong performance is attributed to brand strength, strategic pricing, and innovation-led growth [4] - The recent acquisition of GHOST energy is expected to enhance market presence and contribute to sales growth [4][5] International Growth - KDP anticipates improved international growth driven by pricing strategies and strong brand performance in markets like Mexico and Canada [7] Valuation Metrics - KDP's stock is trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 16.03x, below historical highs and industry averages, indicating potential value for investors [10] - KDP shares have increased by 7.2% over the past six months, outperforming the industry growth of 5.9% [11]

Core Insights - Molson Coors Beverage Company (TAP) is focusing on premiumization as a key strategy for long-term growth, aiming to improve margins and attract consumers [1][4] - The company is shifting its portfolio towards higher-margin products like Peroni, Madrí, and Blue Moon, while also expanding into non-alcoholic and beyond-beer categories [1][3] - Despite these efforts, TAP is facing challenges from a tough macroeconomic environment, leading to a decline in consolidated net sales revenues by 10.4% and a 15.7% drop in U.S. financial volume in Q1 2025 [2][7] Premiumization Strategy - The premiumization strategy includes investments in brands like Fever-Tree and ZOA to cater to a wider range of consumers, particularly Gen Z [1] - New premium products such as Peroni and Madrí are showing positive early signs, with Peroni experiencing increased placements and Madrí becoming a top 10 global brand for Molson Coors [3][4] - The launch of Blue Moon Non-Alc and Blue Moon High ABV extensions aims to attract health-conscious consumers and diversify the product offering [3] Financial Performance - In Q1 2025, while net sales revenue per hectoliter increased by 4.8% in the Americas due to premium mix gains and pricing, it was insufficient to offset the overall volume declines [2][4] - TAP's shares have decreased by 8.9% over the past six months, underperforming the Zacks Beverages - Soft Drinks industry growth of 9.7% and the broader Consumer Staples industry's return of 6.8% [5][7] - The stock is currently trading at a forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple of 8.27X, which is below the industry average of 15.45X, indicating it may be undervalued [8]