Core Viewpoint - Clorox's significant stock sell-off has been excessive, presenting a potential value opportunity for contrarian investors in 2026, especially given its current dividend yield of 4.9% [1][11]. Company Challenges - Clorox has faced self-inflicted challenges alongside broader sector slowdowns, including consumer spending declines and cost pressures from inflation and tariffs [2]. - The company is undergoing a multiyear turnaround focused on maximizing brand value and enhancing internal processes to reduce costs and improve margins [3]. Transition Period - Clorox is in a transition phase as it implements a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, which has led to outdated operations and vulnerabilities, including a cyberattack in 2023 [4]. - The ERP transition has resulted in unusually high shipments to retail partners, leading to reduced demand at the start of fiscal 2026, with projected organic sales growth declining by 5% to 9% [5]. Market Position and Brand Strength - Clorox's brands are predominantly category leaders, with approximately 80% of its brands ranking No. 1 or No. 2 in their respective categories, which positions the company well to adapt to changing consumer preferences [10]. - The company is addressing affordability concerns by offering smaller packaging and bulk options to consumers facing financial pressures [9]. Financial Health and Dividend Policy - Clorox has a strong dividend history, having raised its quarterly dividend to $1.24 per share, marking the 48th consecutive annual increase, and is on track to become a Dividend King by 2027 [12]. - The company's earnings and free cash flow continue to exceed dividend expenses, with a manageable total net long-term debt of less than $3 billion and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.2 [13]. Investment Outlook - Despite current lackluster growth and weak near-term expectations, Clorox presents a high-yield investment opportunity for patient investors with a long-term horizon [16]. - The company's recent strategic decisions, including the ERP transition and divestments, may position it for future growth when consumer spending rebounds [17].

24/7 Wall St. Quick Read Clorox paid out 123% of free cash flow as dividends in fiscal 2024 before improving to 79% in fiscal 2025. Shareholder equity declined from $908M in fiscal 2020 to $321M in fiscal 2025. Management expects $100M in annual tariff headwinds but considers the impact manageable. A recent study identified one single habit that doubled Americans’ retirement savings and moved retirement from dream, to reality. Read more here. Clorox (NYSE:CLX) operates household brands includi ...

Core Viewpoint - Clorox's dividend yield appears attractive at just under 5%, but the stock has declined 37% over the past year, raising concerns about the sustainability of the dividend [1][9]. Dividend Metrics - The annual dividend is $4.92 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 4.99% [2]. - Clorox has increased its dividend for over 13 consecutive years, with the most recent increase being 1.6% in April 2025 [2]. - The 5-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for dividends is 2.5% [2]. Cash Flow Analysis - In fiscal 2025, Clorox paid $602 million in dividends against a free cash flow of $761 million, resulting in a free cash flow payout ratio of 79% [3][4]. - The payout ratio was concerning in fiscal 2024, where dividends exceeded free cash flow at 123% [3][4]. - Operating cash flow has shown volatility, with figures swinging from $1.5 billion in fiscal 2020 to $695 million in fiscal 2024, then recovering to $981 million in fiscal 2025 [4]. Debt and Equity Position - Clorox has a total debt of $2.88 billion and cash reserves of $167 million, leading to a net debt of $2.71 billion [5]. - The net debt-to-EBITDA ratio is 2.4x, which is considered manageable for a consumer staples company [5]. - Shareholder equity has decreased significantly from $908 million in fiscal 2020 to $321 million in fiscal 2025, indicating a trend of paying out more in dividends and buybacks than the company has earned [6]. Management Outlook - CEO Linda Rendle acknowledged near-term challenges but highlighted operational strength, noting a tenth consecutive quarter of gross margin expansion [7]. - CFO Luc Bellet mentioned expected tariff headwinds of about $100 million annually but views this as manageable through sourcing changes and targeted pricing [7]. - Management expressed confidence in the balance sheet and cash flow, suggesting the dividend is secure, although dividend growth has slowed to 1.6% in 2025 compared to historical rates of 5% to 7% [8]. Dividend Safety Assessment - Clorox has a moderate risk rating for dividend safety, with a fiscal 2025 payout ratio of 79% deemed technically sustainable [9]. - However, the previous year's payout ratio of 123% and recent cash flow volatility raise concerns about the dividend's sustainability [9][10].

Core Viewpoint - The Clorox Company (NYSE:CLX) is highlighted as a potential investment opportunity amidst a challenging market for AI stocks, emphasizing the importance of diversification in investment portfolios [1][2]. Group 1: Company Overview - Clorox produces cleaning, household, and personal care products, as well as food and water-filtration items [2]. - The company has notable brands including Burt's Bees, Hidden Valley Ranch, Brita, Kingsford Charcoal, and Clorox itself [2]. Group 2: Market Performance - Clorox is described as "one of the worst stocks in the S&P 500 this year," indicating significant underperformance [2]. - The stock currently offers a yield of 4.72%, which may attract income-focused investors [2]. Group 3: Investment Sentiment - There is a concern that the current market may be missing a potential bottom for consumer packaged goods stocks, including Clorox, which have been affected by inflation and lack of growth [2]. - Despite the challenges, there is recognition of Clorox's potential as an investment, although some analysts suggest that certain AI stocks may present greater upside potential with less downside risk [2].

Core Insights - Clorox Company is increasing brand investments to enhance demand creation strategies, including higher trade spending and advertising, despite ERP-related disruptions [1][4] - The company is focused on innovation across major brands, with new product launches planned for the second half of fiscal 2026 [2] - Clorox's net sales fell 19% year over year to $1.43 billion in Q1 FY26, with organic sales decreasing 17% due to lower shipments related to the ERP transition [3][8] - For fiscal 2026, Clorox projects a net sales decline of 6-10% and organic sales to fall 5-9%, reflecting ongoing short-term pressures [3][8] - The company maintains advertising and promotional spending at approximately 11% of net sales to support long-term brand growth [4][8] Financial Performance - Clorox's shares have decreased by 16.4% over the past six months, compared to an industry decline of 11.9% [5] - The forward price-to-earnings ratio for Clorox is 16.35, which is lower than the industry average of 17.63 [7] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a 24% year-over-year decline in Clorox's fiscal 2026 earnings, but a projected rise of 15.8% in fiscal 2027 earnings [9]

Core Insights - The Clorox Company (NYSE:CLX) is highlighted as a stock on Jim Cramer's radar, amidst concerns about consumer spending in America [2] - Cramer has labeled Clorox as one of "the worst stocks in the S&P 500 year," but sees potential for a buying opportunity due to its poor performance [2] - The brand strength of Clorox, particularly through its product lines like Burt's Bees and Clorox bleach, is a key factor in Cramer's positive outlook [2] Company Performance - Clorox's recent performance has been poor, leading to speculation that it may be at a generational low for investment [2] - Cramer suggests that despite the negative sentiment surrounding consumer goods, there may be undervalued opportunities in the sector [2][3] Investment Perspective - Cramer encourages looking at Clorox as a potential investment, while also acknowledging that some AI stocks may offer higher returns with limited downside risk [3] - The discussion around Clorox reflects broader concerns about inflation and growth impacting consumer spending [2]

Group 1 - The Clorox Company (NYSE:CLX) is currently viewed as one of the worst-performing stocks in the S&P 500 for the year, raising concerns about potentially missing a generational bottom in consumer packaged goods stocks [1] - Clorox has a diverse portfolio of strong brands, including Burt's Bees, Hidden Valley Ranch, Brita, Kingsford Charcoal, and Clorox itself, which contributes to its appeal despite current performance issues [1] - The company offers a dividend yield of 4.72%, which may attract income-focused investors [1] Group 2 - Clorox produces a range of products including cleaning, household, personal care, food, and water-filtration items, indicating a broad market presence [2] - There is a belief that certain AI stocks may present greater upside potential and carry less downside risk compared to Clorox, suggesting a competitive investment landscape [2]

Group 1: Investment Opportunities in Packaged Goods - Investment in packaged goods stocks, such as Procter & Gamble and Kimberly-Clark, is suggested as they are seen as undervalued winners in the sector [1][2] - The packaged goods sector has faced challenges due to high inflation and low growth, but inflation may be nearing its peak, potentially reducing costs for consumer giants [2] - Kimberly-Clark's acquisition of Kenvue is noted, along with praise for its brands, while Procter & Gamble is recognized for its innovation and scale to lower product costs [3] Group 2: Broader Market Insights - Clorox is highlighted as a poor performer in the S&P 500, but its products, including Burt's Bees and Hidden Valley, are still favored [3] - General Mills is mentioned as a risky investment, particularly if there is speculation about a takeover, due to the impact of weight loss drugs on food stocks [3] - Beyond traditional packaged goods, opportunities in pharmaceuticals are emphasized, with Johnson & Johnson and Amgen identified as solid picks amid expected industry mergers [4]

Core Insights - The Clorox Company reported strong margin expansion and adjusted EPS growth for FY25 despite a challenging environment in the second half of the fiscal year [1][3] - The company faced rapidly shifting consumer behaviors and broader market volatility, which are expected to continue [3] Fiscal Year 2025 Summary - Net sales increased by 4%, driven by an 8-point increase in volume, partially offset by a 4-point unfavorable price mix [6] - Diluted EPS rose by 55% to $2.68, while adjusted EPS increased by 58% to $2.87, benefiting from higher volume and incremental ERP shipments [6][14] - The company achieved a gross margin of 46.5%, remaining flat year-over-year, with incremental ERP shipments contributing approximately 150 basis points [6] Strategic and Operational Highlights - The company executed strong preparations for its ERP launch, including building retailer inventory [7] - Clorox continued to invest in product innovations across major brands, enhancing product offerings and expanding partnerships [7] - The company was recognized as a top workplace by various publications, reflecting its commitment to employee satisfaction [7] Segment Performance - Health and Wellness segment net sales increased by 4% to $2.0 billion, with organic sales up by 8% [6] - Household segment net sales rose by 7%, driven by higher volume, while the Lifestyle segment saw a 3% increase in net sales [8][12] - International sales were impacted by unfavorable foreign exchange rates, but organic sales increased by 1% [12] ERP Transition Impact - The ERP transition resulted in temporary benefits, contributing about 3.5 to 4 points to sales and approximately 85 to 95 cents to earnings per share for FY25 [10] - The company anticipates a decline in sales and earnings for FY26 due to the reversal of the inventory drawdown related to the ERP transition [10][18] Fiscal Year 2026 Outlook - Net sales are expected to decrease by 6% to 10% compared to FY25, with organic sales projected to decline by 5% to 9% [18] - Diluted EPS for FY26 is forecasted to be between $5.60 and $5.95, reflecting a year-over-year decrease of 14% to 9% [18][40] - The company plans to continue investing in digital capabilities and productivity enhancements, which will impact adjusted EPS [18][40]

Core Insights - The stock market in 2025 has experienced significant volatility, with major indexes facing steep sell-offs followed by rapid recoveries [1] Group 1: Dividend Stocks Overview - Investors are increasingly seeking dividend stocks as a means to generate passive income, especially in a volatile market [2] - Dividend stocks are particularly appealing to risk-averse investors and those looking to balance their portfolios [2] Group 2: Devon Energy - Devon Energy is highlighted as a reliable dividend stock, with a current dividend of $0.96 per share, yielding over 3% [6] - The company's breakeven funding level is $45 per barrel of oil, indicating the minimum price needed to sustain operations and dividends [6] - With oil priced at $63 per barrel, Devon could potentially increase dividends or buy back shares, projecting $2.6 billion in free cash flow at $60 per barrel, equating to 12.9% of its market capitalization [7] Group 3: Brookfield Infrastructure - Brookfield Infrastructure offers a forward dividend yield of 5.2% and is currently trading at a discount to its historical valuation, making it an attractive option for income-focused investors [8][13] - The company has demonstrated a 14% compound annual growth rate in funds from operations over the past 15 years, indicating strong operational performance [12] - Brookfield Infrastructure generates sufficient funds from operations to cover its dividend payments, reinforcing its appeal for passive income [10] Group 4: Clorox - Clorox has faced challenges but is positioned as a high-yield dividend stock with a yield of 3.8% and a history of 48 consecutive years of dividend increases [17] - The company is expected to see cost benefits from its enterprise resource planning system starting in 2026, which may improve its financial performance [15] - Clorox has achieved 10 consecutive quarters of gross margin expansion, indicating improved cost management despite sales challenges [16]