Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, the company achieved dollar-based EPS growth of 6% to $3.73 per share, with a 9.4% increase in constant currency [22][26] - EBITDA increased by 4.9%, with margin expansion of 101 basis points, resulting in a revenue per hectoliter increase of 4.4% [7][21] - Free cash flow was maintained at $11.3 billion, allowing for increased share buybacks and a 15% increase in total dividends compared to the previous year [7][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Mega Brands and premium portfolio outperformed the overall business, with the Beyond Beer and non-alcohol beer portfolios growing revenues by 23% and 34%, respectively [6][15] - The BEES Marketplace GMV increased by 61% to $3.5 billion, indicating strong growth in the digital marketplace segment [6][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue increased in 65% of the company's markets, with EBITDA growth in four of five operating regions [8] - In the U.S., market share gains were noted in both beer and spirits, with significant growth from brands like Michelob ULTRA and Cutwater [9][10] - In China, revenue declined by low teens, but market share trends improved towards the end of the year [11][45] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on premiumization, innovation, and expanding its digital ecosystem through the BEES Marketplace [12][18] - The strategy emphasizes long-term growth drivers such as balanced choices, premiumization, and the Beyond Beer segment [33][60] - The company aims to leverage its diversified geographic footprint to capture future industry growth, particularly in emerging markets [8][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the 2026 outlook, citing improved momentum as the company exited 2025 and the upcoming FIFA World Cup as a significant opportunity [26][33] - The operating environment in 2025 was described as dynamic, with challenges in consumer demand and weather impacting performance [26][32] Other Important Information - The company invested $7.4 billion in sales and marketing in 2025, maintaining an average of over $7 billion per year since 2021 [12] - The company has a strong focus on sustainability, achieving goals in water and agriculture while making progress in climate and packaging objectives [24][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on beer as a passion point for consumers - Management emphasized the role of beer in bringing people together and creating moments of celebration, highlighting the importance of moderate consumption [30][31] Question: Key elements of the U.S. market turnaround - Management noted the importance of consistency and long-term investment strategies in the U.S. market turnaround, with a focus on portfolio rebalancing and brand innovation [37][39] Question: Update on China’s commercial execution - Management reported progress in penetrating the off-trade channel and noted stabilization in the on-trade channel, with cautious optimism for 2026 [43][45] Question: Competitive dynamics in Brazil - Management indicated that improved weather conditions and closing price gaps contributed to positive momentum in Brazil, with strong brand demand continuing into the new year [46][47] Question: Thoughts on phasing in 2026 - Management acknowledged the unique dynamics of 2026, particularly with the World Cup, and indicated a concentration of marketing investments in the second and third quarters [64][67] Question: CapEx sustainability - Management expressed confidence in maintaining low CapEx levels through efficiency and technology, ensuring support for business needs [68][69] Question: Potential of BEES Marketplace - Management highlighted the growth opportunity in the BEES Marketplace, particularly in the third-party segment, which is becoming increasingly profitable [72][75] Question: Growth in non-alcohol beer and RTDs - Management attributed high growth in non-alcohol beer to superior product quality and technology investments, with plans for further expansion in the U.S. [79][80]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, the company achieved dollar-based EPS growth of 6% and a 9.4% increase in constant currency, with underlying EPS reaching $3.73 per share [22][26] - EBITDA increased by 4.9%, with margin expansion of 101 basis points, resulting in a revenue per hectoliter increase of 4.4% and top-line growth of 2% [7][21] - Free cash flow was maintained at $11.3 billion, allowing for increased share buybacks and a proposed final dividend representing a 15% increase year-over-year [23][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Mega Brands and premium portfolio grew ahead of the overall business, with Beyond Beer and non-alcohol beer portfolios increasing revenue by 23% and 34%, respectively [6][15] - The BEES Marketplace GMV increased by 61% to reach $3.5 billion, indicating strong growth in the digital marketplace segment [6][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue increased in 65% of the company's markets, with notable performance in the U.S., Mexico, and Colombia, while China experienced a low teens revenue decline [8][9][11] - In the U.S., the company gained market share in both beer and spirits, with significant growth from brands like Michelob ULTRA and Cutwater [9][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on premiumization, innovation, and expanding its digital ecosystem, with a strong emphasis on the growth of Beyond Beer and non-alcohol segments [12][15][19] - The company aims to leverage its diversified geographic footprint to capture future industry growth, particularly in emerging markets where 70% of EBITDA is generated [8][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the prospects for 2026, citing improved momentum in key markets and the upcoming FIFA World Cup as significant opportunities for growth [26][33] - The company remains committed to its long-term strategy, focusing on disciplined revenue management and brand investment despite challenges faced in 2025 [5][26] Other Important Information - The company invested $7.4 billion in sales and marketing in 2025, with a focus on enhancing brand power and market presence [12][13] - The company has a strong innovation pipeline, with new product launches and expansions planned for both the Beyond Beer and non-alcohol segments [15][16] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Insights on the role of beer in consumer culture - Management emphasized that beer brings people together and creates moments of celebration, highlighting the importance of moderate consumption [30][31] Question: Optimism for 2026 and strategy execution - Management noted that the positive outlook for 2026 is due to consistent application of strategy and early signs of market recovery [32][33] Question: Turnaround strategies in the U.S. market - Management discussed the importance of consistency and long-term investment in the U.S. market, with a focus on portfolio rebalancing and brand innovation [38][39] Question: Progress in China and market dynamics - Management acknowledged challenges in China but noted improvements in market share and execution, particularly in the off-trade channel [43][46] Question: Competitive dynamics in Brazil - Management highlighted the return to growth in Brazil, attributing it to improved weather conditions and effective brand execution [47][48] Question: Margin outlook for 2026 - Management indicated that there are opportunities for further margin expansion, driven by premium brands and operational efficiency [52][56] Question: Beyond Beer business potential - Management expressed confidence in the growth potential of the Beyond Beer segment, with significant headroom for expansion in the U.S. market [60][61] Question: CapEx sustainability and efficiency - Management reassured that the current level of CapEx is sustainable, supported by technology and efficiency improvements [68][69]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, the company achieved dollar-based EPS growth of 6% to $3.73 per share, with a 9.4% increase in constant currency, reflecting a CAGR of 6.7% since 2021 [20][21] - EBITDA increased by 4.9%, with margin expansion of 101 basis points, resulting in top-line growth of 2% [6][20] - Free cash flow was maintained at $11.3 billion, allowing for increased share buybacks and a 15% increase in dividends compared to the previous year [6][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Mega Brands and premium portfolio outperformed the overall business, with Beyond Beer revenue increasing by 23% and non-alcohol beer revenue growing by 34% [5][15] - BEES Marketplace GMV increased by 61% to $3.5 billion, indicating strong growth in the digital marketplace segment [5][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue increased in 65% of the company's markets, with EBITDA growth in four of five operating regions [7][8] - In the U.S., the company gained market share in both beer and spirits, with significant growth from brands like Michelob ULTRA and Busch Light [9][10] - In China, revenue declined by low teens, but market share trends improved in Q4, indicating potential for recovery [11][45] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on premiumization, innovation, and expanding its digital ecosystem through the BEES Marketplace [12][17] - The strategy emphasizes long-term growth drivers such as balanced choices, premiumization, and the Beyond Beer segment, which is projected to grow at double the rate of the overall beer category [15][16] - The company aims to leverage its diversified geographic footprint to capture future industry growth, particularly in emerging markets [8][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the 2026 outlook, citing improved momentum exiting 2025 and upcoming major events like the FIFA World Cup as opportunities for growth [26][33] - The company remains committed to its strategic priorities despite challenges in 2025, with a focus on maintaining financial discipline and optimizing resource allocation [20][26] Other Important Information - The company achieved its sustainability goals related to water and agriculture, with ongoing efforts in climate and packaging [24][25] - The company plans to maintain a progressive dividend policy and has proposed a final dividend of 1 EUR per share for 2025 [24] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Insights on the role of beer in consumer culture - Management highlighted that beer brings people together for moments of celebration and emphasized the importance of promoting moderate consumption [30][31] Question: Key elements of the U.S. market turnaround - Management credited consistency and strategic investments in brand segmentation as key to the U.S. market turnaround, with plans to apply these learnings to other markets, particularly China [36][40] Question: Update on commercial execution in China - Management noted significant progress in the off-trade channel and a stabilization in the on-trade channel, with cautious optimism for 2026 [43][45] Question: Thoughts on BEES Marketplace scaling - Management expressed confidence in the growth potential of the BEES Marketplace, particularly in the third-party segment, which is becoming increasingly profitable [73][76]

Core Insights - Anheuser-Busch has announced a $30 million investment in its Jacksonville Brewery and Can Plant to increase production of Michelob ULTRA, which is the top-selling and fastest-growing beer in the U.S. [1][2] Investment and Economic Impact - The $30 million investment is part of Anheuser-Busch's Brewing Futures initiative, which has seen over $300 million invested in U.S. facilities in the past year to support American manufacturing jobs [2][3] - The investment aims to enhance brewing and packaging capabilities, thereby expanding the production capacity for Michelob ULTRA and contributing to local economic growth [2][3] Market Position - Michelob ULTRA is recognized as the 1 top-selling beer nationwide and in Florida, with strong performance in bars and restaurants as confirmed by Nielsen [2][3] Community and Workforce Development - The investment is expected to create new jobs and provide opportunities for workforce development in Jacksonville, aligning with local government support for manufacturing growth [3][5] - Anheuser-Busch has invested over $100 million in its Jacksonville facilities since 2021, part of nearly $2 billion invested across its 100 U.S. facilities in the last five years [3][4] Company Overview - Anheuser-Busch has a legacy of over 165 years in brewing and is committed to creating economic prosperity through investments in people, facilities, and communities [4][5] - The company is recognized as the only alcohol manufacturer investing at such a scale in the U.S. [4]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, the company reported top-line growth of 0.9% and EBITDA growth of 3.3%, with margin expansion of 85 basis points [8][21] - Underlying EPS increased by 1% in U.S. dollars and 0.3% in constant currency, reaching $0.99 per share [21][22] - Revenue per hectoliter increased by 4.8%, driven by disciplined revenue management and a portfolio of mega brands [8][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The premium beer, non-alcohol beer, and beyond beer segments continued to outperform, with the quarterly GMV of the BIS marketplace reaching nearly $1 billion [5][8] - In the U.S., the portfolio saw a revenue increase in the mid-40s, led by Cutwater, which grew revenue in the triple digits [9] - Michelob ULTRA became the number one brand in the industry by volume year-to-date, gaining market share in all 50 states [5][9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue increased in 70% of the company's markets, with bottom-line growth in four of five operating regions [7][8] - In China, revenue declined by 15.2%, with volumes underperforming the industry due to a soft consumer environment [13] - In Brazil, revenue declined by 1.9% due to unseasonable weather and a softer consumer environment, but market share gains were achieved [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing its strategic priorities, including investments in brands and innovations to drive market share gains [4][5] - A $6 billion share buyback program was approved, alongside an interim dividend of EUR 0.15 per share, reflecting confidence in long-term growth [7][22] - The company aims to enhance its execution in China and strengthen its route to market, particularly in the in-home channels [13][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged headwinds in China and unseasonable weather in the Americas but expressed confidence in the resilience of the strategy [4][5] - The outlook for the beer category remains positive, with expectations for industry volume growth as conditions normalize [12][40] - The company anticipates that the FIFA World Cup in North America in 2026 will provide significant opportunities for growth [25][40] Other Important Information - The company reported strong free cash flow generation, which has increased capital allocation flexibility [6][22] - The partnership with Netflix was announced, aiming to create co-marketing campaigns and enhance consumer experiences [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on the $6 billion buyback program - Management indicated that the buyback program reflects improved balance sheet flexibility and is part of a disciplined capital allocation strategy [27][29] Question: Outlook for global beer volume growth - Management noted that the potential for category growth remains around 1% under normal conditions, with opportunities for expansion in developing markets [30][31] Question: Volume growth outlook for 2026 - Management expressed optimism for volume growth in 2026, particularly with the FIFA World Cup and improving consumer sentiment [40][41] Question: Impact of input costs in 2026 - Management stated that they do not provide specific guidance on cost of goods sold but highlighted that hedging policies are in place to manage FX impacts [43][45] Question: Performance in Brazil and Colombia - Management noted that while Brazil faced challenges due to weather, Colombia continued to show strong volume growth and market share gains [52][76] Question: Beyond beer category growth - Management indicated that beyond beer now represents around 2% of total volume and is growing rapidly, with higher profitability compared to traditional beer SKUs [81][82] Question: Gross margin performance - Management attributed gross margin performance to a strong brand portfolio and operational efficiencies, with ongoing opportunities for improvement [84][85]

Core Viewpoint - Constellation Brands Inc has gained favor with Berkshire Hathaway, which has increased its stake in the company multiple times, indicating potential undervaluation and investor interest in recovery signs ahead of the upcoming earnings report [1][5][6]. Earnings Estimates - Analysts project Constellation Brands to report second-quarter revenue of $2.46 billion, a decrease from $2.92 billion in the same quarter last year [2]. - Expected earnings per share (EPS) for the second quarter is $3.38, down from $4.32 in the previous year [2][3]. - The company missed EPS estimates in the first quarter but has beaten analyst estimates in nine of the last ten quarters overall [3]. Analyst Sentiment - Analysts have been reducing their price targets for Constellation Brands ahead of the quarterly results, with Bank of America Securities lowering its target from $182 to $150 and downgrading the stock from Neutral to Underperform due to soft beer consumption [4]. - Other analysts have also adjusted their price targets downward, with UBS lowering from $205 to $175, Goldman Sachs from $196 to $168, Wells Fargo from $170 to $155, and Citigroup from $155 to $145 [9]. Key Items to Watch - Berkshire Hathaway's stake in Constellation Brands has increased by 114% in the first quarter and by 12% in the second quarter, currently holding 13.4 million shares valued at $1.9 billion [6]. - The stake represents approximately 7.6% ownership of Constellation Brands, although it constitutes only 0.6% of Berkshire Hathaway's investment portfolio [6]. - The company has faced challenges with Modelo Especial losing its title as the bestselling beer in America, now surpassed by Michelob ULTRA, attributed to weaker demand among Hispanic consumers [8][10]. Company Guidance - Constellation Brands previously lowered its full-year guidance, expecting net beer sales to decline by 2% to 4%, compared to an earlier forecast of flat to a gain of 3% year-over-year [11]. - Analysts and investors will be monitoring if there are any improvements in guidance during the upcoming earnings report [11]. Stock Performance - Constellation Brands' stock has decreased by 2.4% to $138.75, with a year-to-date decline of 37.7% in 2025 [11].

Core Insights - Anheuser-Busch announced a $7.4 million investment in its Los Angeles Brewery to enhance production capacity for Michelob ULTRA, the top-selling and fastest-growing beer in the U.S. [2] - This investment is part of the company's broader Brewing Futures initiative, which includes a commitment of over $300 million to U.S. facilities aimed at creating and sustaining manufacturing jobs [2][3]. - The Los Angeles Brewery has received $180 million in investments over the past five years, contributing to nearly $2 billion invested across 100 U.S. facilities during the same period [2][3]. Investment and Economic Impact - The new investment will upgrade brewing and packaging equipment, allowing for increased production of Michelob ULTRA, including new packaging formats to meet consumer demand [2]. - Anheuser-Busch's investments support local economies, with California State Senator Caroline Menjivar highlighting the company's role in job creation and economic growth in the San Fernando Valley [2]. - The company sources over $700 million in high-quality ingredients from American farmers and has spent more than $7 billion on goods and services from U.S. suppliers [3]. Product and Market Position - Michelob ULTRA has been a leader in the beer market for over 20 years, promoting an active lifestyle and achieving a 7.2% volume growth year-to-date [2]. - The brand is also the official beer sponsor of major upcoming global sporting events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games [2]. - Anheuser-Busch produces 45 different products at the Los Angeles Brewery, which distributes to 26 states across the U.S. [2].

Core Insights - Anheuser-Busch InBev has regained the title of the bestselling beer in America with its Michelob ULTRA brand, surpassing Bud Light and Modelo Especial [1][2]. Group 1: Market Performance - Michelob ULTRA has become the number one beer in the retail sector over the past 52 weeks, according to Circana data, and also leads in bars and restaurants as per Nielsen data [4]. - Over the last five years, Michelob ULTRA has experienced a growth of 15% and gained over 2% of the beer market [5]. - Anheuser-Busch InBev's stock has increased by 18.4% year-to-date in 2025, recovering from previous losses related to Bud Light [11]. Group 2: Competitive Landscape - Constellation Brands' Modelo Especial has seen weaker demand recently, attributed to higher prices and economic concerns affecting Hispanic buyers, who represent about half of Constellation's beer business [8]. - Constellation has lowered its full-year guidance, expecting net beer sales to decline by 2% to 4% compared to earlier projections of flat to a 3% increase year-over-year [9]. Group 3: Marketing and Partnerships - Michelob ULTRA has engaged in partnerships with major sports leagues and events, including the NBA, WNBA, PGA Tour, and the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, enhancing its visibility [3][6]. - The brand has also signed a multi-year partnership with Netflix for co-branded deals, which is expected to further increase consumer attention [7].

Core Insights - Anheuser-Busch has announced a $300 million commitment to create and sustain U.S. manufacturing jobs, with a significant investment of $15 million in its St. Louis Brewery [1][4] - The company aims to drive innovation and build a stronger future for American workers, veterans, and the manufacturing industry through this investment [2][4] - The recent passage of the American Beer Act in Missouri is expected to facilitate long-term economic growth and support for local jobs [2][4] Investment and Development - The investment in St. Louis includes funding for supply chain infrastructure to enhance the transportation of American-grown ingredients and iconic beers [4] - Anheuser-Busch's Technical Excellence Center in St. Louis has trained over 2,000 employees and will now open its doors to local trade schools, marking a significant collaboration with the National Association of Manufacturers' Manufacturing Institute [2][4] - Recent investments across various breweries include enhancements in production capacity and equipment updates, such as in Baldwinsville, NY, and improvements in transportation capabilities in Houston, TX [3][8] Workforce and Community Engagement - The company is expanding its digital credentialing system to help veterans translate their military experience into manufacturing skills, promoting career opportunities for veterans [4] - Anheuser-Busch has a long-standing commitment to supporting American farmers, military, veterans, and first responders, contributing to community welfare through initiatives like emergency drinking water donations [6][7]

Core Insights - Anheuser-Busch is investing over $300 million in U.S. facilities in 2025, with a specific $9 million investment in its Baldwinsville, NY brewery [1][2][5] - The investments are part of the Brewing Futures initiative aimed at creating and sustaining American manufacturing jobs [2][3] - Over the past five years, Anheuser-Busch has invested more than $2 billion in its manufacturing facilities across the U.S. [1][5] Investment Details - The $9 million investment in Baldwinsville will enhance operations and expand production capacity for both traditional beer and fast-growing Beyond Beer products [3][4] - The investment includes maintenance of brewery equipment and updates to refrigeration units [3] - Anheuser-Busch has made nearly $90 million in investments in the Baldwinsville brewery over the past five years [4] Economic Impact - Anheuser-Busch operates over 100 facilities nationwide and employs approximately 65,000 individuals [5] - The company has made over $1.6 billion in capital investments in New York State since 1983 [4] - The company sources over $700 million in high-quality ingredients from American farmers and has purchased more than $7 billion in goods and services from U.S. suppliers [7] Strategic Focus - The Brewing Futures initiative focuses on three key pillars: creating and sustaining manufacturing jobs, advancing technical skills training, and strengthening career opportunities for veterans [8] - Anheuser-Busch emphasizes its commitment to supporting the communities where its employees live and work [4][9]