Mondelez International is looking to expand a biscuit factory in Poland and make the site its largest in the country. The Oreo maker is investing 620m zlotys ($169m) at its facility in Płońsk in central Poland. The project, scheduled to be completed next year, is expected to increase production capacity by 30% and generate 180 additional jobs. At present, the plant employs about 700 people. Operations in Płońsk began in 1976 with three production lines. The site has since grown into a biscuit hub for Mo ...

Core Insights - Mondelez International, Inc. (MDLZ) is valued at a market cap of $74.9 billion and operates in over 150 countries, focusing on premium snacking products like biscuits, chocolates, and candies [1] Financial Performance - In the third quarter, Mondelez reported a 5.9% increase in net revenue, with organic sales up 3.4% driven by price increases, but volumes suffered and margins were pressured due to high cocoa and input costs [4] - Adjusted EPS fell 24.2% year over year to $0.73, and operating income decreased 35.5% from the previous year to $744 million [4] - For the current fiscal year, analysts expect MDLZ's EPS to decline 12.8% year over year to $2.93 [5] Stock Performance - Over the past year, MDLZ shares have declined 17.2%, underperforming the S&P 500 Index, which has surged 17.4% [2] - Year-to-date, the stock is down 3.3%, while the benchmark index has gained 16% [2] - The stock has also trailed the First Trust Nasdaq Food & Beverage ETF's 14.4% loss over the past 52 weeks [3] Analyst Ratings - Among 26 analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating is a "Moderate Buy," with 14 "Strong Buy," three "Moderate Buy," eight "Hold," and one "Strong Sell" rating [5] - The mean price target of $71.56 suggests a 23.8% potential upside from current price levels, while the Street-high price target of $85 indicates an upside potential of 47.1% [6]

Core Viewpoint - Mondelez International, Inc. is positioned for potential growth with a new price target set by Wells Fargo, despite recent stock fluctuations and a decline on the day of the announcement [2][3][5]. Company Overview - Mondelez is a global leader in the snack food industry, operating in over 150 countries and known for brands like Oreo, Cadbury, and Toblerone [1]. - The company focuses on various product categories including biscuits, chocolate, gum, candy, and powdered beverages, competing with major players like Nestlé and Mars, Inc. [1]. Financial Performance - Wells Fargo has set a price target of $72 for Mondelez, indicating a potential increase of approximately 19.58% from its current trading price of $60.21 [2][6]. - During the Q3 2025 earnings call, key executives discussed the company's financial performance and strategic direction, attended by analysts from major financial institutions [2][3][6]. - Despite the optimistic price target, Mondelez's stock experienced a decrease of 2.35% on the day of the announcement, dropping $1.45 to a low of $60.21 [3][6]. Market Metrics - Mondelez's stock has fluctuated over the past year, with a high of $71.15 and a low of $53.95 [4]. - The company's market capitalization is approximately $77.91 billion, reflecting its significant presence in the global snack food market [4][6]. - The trading volume for the day reached 14.9 million shares, indicating active investor interest [4][6].

Market Overview - The S&P 500 increased by 0.3%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 193 points (0.4%), and the Nasdaq Composite gained 0.7%, all near all-time highs, driven by expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut to support a cooling job market [4][6] - Bond yields remained steady, with the 10-year Treasury yield decreasing to 3.98% from 3.99%, indicating investor caution ahead of the Fed's announcement [4][6] - The equity rally is supported by hopes for lower borrowing costs, although the Fed has cautioned about pausing its easing cycle if inflation accelerates [4][6] Company Earnings - Caterpillar's stock surged by 9.3% after reporting better-than-expected quarterly profit and revenue, attributed to strong demand for construction and mining equipment [5][6] - CVS Health's shares climbed by 3.1% after surpassing profit estimates, despite reporting losses from reducing new primary care clinic openings [5][6] - Teradyne's stock soared by 19% following stronger-than-expected results, with robust demand for AI-related testing cited by CEO Greg Smith [5][6] - Nvidia's stock rose by 4.9%, making it the first company to achieve a $5 trillion market capitalization, significantly boosting the S&P 500 [5][6] - Mondelez International's shares fell by 3.3% despite solid earnings, as the company warned of ongoing challenges from record cocoa prices, although some moderation is expected [5][6] Global Market Performance - Asian markets closed higher, with Japan's Nikkei 225 rising by 2.2% to a new record and South Korea's Kospi increasing by 1.8% following a meeting between President Trump and South Korea's leader [5][6] - Shanghai's Composite Index gained 0.7% ahead of Trump's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping amid ongoing trade tensions [5][6] - European stocks showed mixed performance as investors monitored global central bank actions and corporate earnings [5][6]

Core Insights - Mondelez International is a global leader in the snack industry, known for brands like Oreo, Cadbury, and Trident, operating in over 150 countries and focusing on various snack categories [1] - The company reported an EPS of $0.73 and revenue of approximately $9.74 billion for the quarter ending October 28, 2025, reflecting a 5.9% year-over-year revenue increase [2][4] - Mondelez has a strong track record of exceeding market expectations, surpassing consensus EPS estimates three out of the last four quarters [3] Financial Performance - The reported EPS of $0.73 exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.72 by 1.39%, although it decreased from $0.99 a year ago [3] - Revenue of $9.74 billion slightly surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.07%, marking the second time in four quarters that revenue expectations were exceeded [4] - The company maintains a P/E ratio of approximately 21.41, a price-to-sales ratio of about 2.10, and an enterprise value to sales ratio of around 2.64 [5] Strategic Focus - Mondelez's revenue growth is attributed to its strategic focus on expanding product offerings and optimizing its supply chain, despite challenges such as high cocoa prices and rising transportation costs [4] - The company competes with major food companies like Nestlé and Mars, Inc., aiming to maintain its market position through innovation and strategic acquisitions [1]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a decline in volume in North America by 4% compared to a 2.8% average year-to-date, indicating a slowdown in the market [20] - The guidance for Q4 implies a step up in organic net revenue growth of more than 4%, with an expected improvement in EBIT growth compared to the previous year [13][46] - Cocoa prices have been a significant factor, with a 30% price increase impacting the chocolate segment, but the company expects significant improvement moving forward [5][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Europe, the biscuits, cakes, pastries, and meals business are performing well with share growth and volume mix growth, while the chocolate category is generally in line with expectations despite some pressure [5][6] - The U.S. biscuit category is facing challenges, with consumers focusing on essentials and shifting towards smaller packs and promotions [20][21] - Emerging markets showed a volume decline of 4.7%, primarily affected by Argentina's hyperinflation and economic conditions, but India and Brazil are performing better with mid-single-digit and double-digit growth respectively [39][41] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consumer confidence in Europe remains stable, but the U.S. market is experiencing a decline in consumer spending and basket size, affecting overall sales [5][20] - Price elasticity in Europe is currently around 0.7 to 0.8, higher than the historical range of 0.4 to 0.5, indicating a need for price adjustments in certain product lines [8][34] - Emerging markets are showing varied performance, with China experiencing low single-digit growth and Argentina significantly impacting overall volume [40][41] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on optimizing pricing strategies and promotional effectiveness to drive growth, particularly in the U.S. market [12][24] - There is a clear strategy to invest in emerging markets and adjacencies like cakes and pastries, with a goal of high single-digit EPS growth for 2026 [15][29] - The company plans to enhance its supply chain efficiency and reduce costs through automation and better logistics management [48][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth potential despite current challenges, emphasizing the importance of adapting to consumer behavior and market conditions [15][68] - The company anticipates a rebound in Europe driven by seasonal activations and improved pricing strategies, while the U.S. market is expected to stabilize with better promotional strategies [46][48] - Cocoa prices are expected to be deflationary in 2026, which will positively impact margins and allow for further investments [15][14] Other Important Information - The company is implementing a multi-year North America supply chain program aimed at addressing cost structures and improving service levels [48][50] - There is a focus on health and wellness trends, with plans to expand product offerings in better-for-you segments [25][68] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on European market pricing and elasticity - Management noted that the current price elasticity in Europe is around 0.7 to 0.8, which is higher than expected, and adjustments are being made to better align with consumer acceptance [34][58] Question: U.S. market growth strategy - The company is focusing on optimizing pricing and promotional strategies to regain growth, with a shift towards value offerings and better-for-you products [20][68] Question: Future investments and spending - Management confirmed that Q4 plans for investments are locked in, with a focus on continuous brand support and activation at point of sale [71][72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a decline in volume in North America by 4% compared to a 2.8% average year-to-date, indicating a slowdown in the market [20][21] - The company expects a step-up in organic net revenue growth for Q4, guiding more than 4% growth [13][46] - The company anticipates high single-digit EPS growth for 2026, despite planned investments [15][72] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Europe, the chocolate business faced a 30% price increase due to cocoa costs, but overall performance is in line with expectations [5][9] - The U.S. biscuit category is under pressure, with promotional strategies not delivering expected returns [21][66] - Emerging markets showed a 4.7% volume decline, primarily affected by Argentina's economic situation and pricing strategies in India [39][40] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consumer confidence in Europe remains stable, but there are pockets of pressure due to competitive pricing and retailer margin increases [5][6] - In the U.S., consumers are shifting towards value-oriented purchases, impacting overall basket sizes and category performance [20][21] - Emerging markets like Brazil showed double-digit growth, while China experienced low single-digit growth, indicating mixed performance across regions [41][40] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on optimizing pricing strategies and promotional effectiveness to regain growth in North America [24][66] - There is a strong emphasis on innovation with new flavors and formats to drive consumer engagement [8][15] - The company plans to invest in supply chain improvements and automation to enhance profitability and service levels [48][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the cocoa cost environment is expected to improve, which should positively impact margins going forward [9][14] - The company is cautious about the U.S. market outlook, projecting continued challenges but also opportunities for growth through channel expansion [29][46] - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth potential in emerging markets, despite short-term pressures [40][41] Other Important Information - The company is implementing a multi-year North America supply chain program aimed at reducing costs and improving efficiency [48][50] - There is a focus on maintaining a balance between protecting profit margins and offering value to consumers [66][68] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on European market pricing and elasticity - Management indicated that price elasticity in Europe is currently around 0.7 to 0.8, higher than historical norms, and adjustments are being made to address pricing issues [34][36] Question: U.S. market growth strategy - Management acknowledged the need to protect profit pools while also focusing on value through pack price architecture adjustments [66][68] Question: Expectations for North America in Q4 - The company expects a rebound in North America driven by improved pricing strategies and promotional effectiveness [46][72] Question: Impact of cocoa prices on future guidance - Management stated that cocoa prices are being monitored closely, with strategies in place to benefit from potential declines [14][28] Question: SG&A cost structure and future investments - Management outlined that SG&A reductions are not entirely permanent, with plans for increased spending in 2026 to support growth initiatives [55][72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a year-to-date organic net revenue growth of more than 4% for Q4, with an implied EPS growth translating to significant EBIT growth compared to the previous year [11][40] - The company faced challenges including tariffs, material destocking in the U.S., and an unprecedented heat wave in Europe, which impacted consumer confidence and volume trends [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Europe, the chocolate business experienced a substantial price increase of about 30%, with elasticity around 0.7 to 0.8, which is higher than previously expected [6][29] - The U.S. biscuit category saw a volume decline of 4%, driven by consumer concerns about the economy and a shift towards value-seeking behavior [16][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Emerging markets experienced a volume decline of 4.7%, primarily due to hyperinflation in Argentina and strategic downsizing in India [34] - China showed low single-digit growth in Q3, indicating a new challenge for the company, while Brazil reported double-digit growth due to strong execution in biscuits and chocolate [35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on optimizing pricing strategies and promotional effectiveness to drive growth, particularly in the U.S. market [20][56] - There is a clear intention to invest in emerging markets and adjacencies like cakes and pastries, with a target of high single-digit EPS growth for 2026 [13][62] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the cocoa cost environment is expected to improve, which will positively impact future pricing strategies and profitability [12][31] - The company is adapting its product offerings and pricing architecture to better align with consumer expectations and market conditions [57][58] Other Important Information - The company is implementing a multi-year North America supply chain program aimed at improving cost structures and service levels [43][44] - There is an emphasis on continuous investment in brands and activation at the point of sale to support long-term growth [62] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on European market pricing and elasticity - Management indicated that the price elasticity in Europe is currently around 0.7 to 0.8, which is higher than historical norms, and adjustments are being made to address pricing gaps [28][29] Question: Path forward for U.S. growth - The U.S. market is experiencing a volume decline, but management is optimistic about returning to growth through strategic pricing and promotional adjustments [15][22] Question: Expectations for North America in Q4 - Management expects a rebound in Europe and a slight improvement in North America, driven by pricing strategies and promotional effectiveness [40][41] Question: SG&A cost reductions and future investments - Management outlined that SG&A reductions are primarily due to working media declines, but investments will increase in 2026 to support growth initiatives [46][48]

Core Insights - Mondelēz International reported a net revenue increase of 5.9% for Q3 2025, with organic net revenue growth of 3.4% despite a volume/mix decline of 4.6% [1][5] - The diluted EPS decreased by 9.5% to $0.57, while adjusted EPS was $0.73, reflecting a 24.2% decline on a constant currency basis [1][4] - The company provided a cash flow of $2.1 billion from operating activities and a free cash flow of $1.2 billion year-to-date [1] Financial Performance - Net revenues for Q3 2025 reached $9,744 million, with a gross profit of $2,612 million, resulting in a gross profit margin of 26.8%, down 580 basis points year-over-year [3][4] - Operating income was reported at $744 million, with an operating income margin of 7.6%, a decrease of 490 basis points compared to the previous year [4][19] - Year-to-date net earnings attributable to Mondelēz International were $1,786 million, with diluted EPS of $1.37, down 35.4% year-over-year [21] Regional Performance - In Q3 2025, net revenues from Latin America were $1,238 million, up 2.8%, while Asia, Middle East & Africa reported $2,017 million, a 9.0% increase [3] - Europe saw a 10.6% increase in net revenues to $3,674 million, while North America experienced a slight decline of 0.4% to $2,815 million [3] - Emerging markets contributed $3,881 million in net revenues, reflecting a 9.9% growth, while developed markets reported $5,863 million, a 3.0% increase [3] Outlook - For FY 2025, the company expects organic net revenue growth of over 4% and a decline in adjusted EPS of approximately 15% on a constant currency basis [7][8] - The anticipated free cash flow for 2025 is projected to exceed $3 billion, with currency translation expected to positively impact net revenue growth by about 0.5% [7][8] - The company remains focused on improving volume, increasing growth investments, and driving cost efficiencies despite ongoing challenges in certain markets [2]

Core Insights - Mondelez International, Inc. is a global leader in the snack industry, operating in over 150 countries with iconic brands like Oreo, Cadbury, and Trident [1] - The company is set to release its quarterly earnings on October 28, 2025 [1] Financial Performance - Analysts expect Mondelez to report earnings per share (EPS) of $0.724, with projected revenue of $9.74 billion, representing a 5.9% increase driven by strong performance in core chocolate and biscuit brands [2] - Despite revenue growth, Mondelez's profits may face pressure due to rising input costs, particularly higher cocoa prices, with a consensus estimate for EPS reflecting a 26.3% decline compared to the same quarter last year [3] Strategic Initiatives - Mondelez is implementing a new generative AI tool to reduce marketing content production costs by 30% to 50%, enhancing operational efficiency [4][6] - The upcoming earnings report could significantly influence Mondelez's stock price, with potential upward movement if actual earnings surpass expectations, or a decline if they fall short [5]