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3 Hot Consumer Stocks to Leave Behind in 2026
The Motley Fool· 2025-12-29 01:00
Core Viewpoint - The article discusses three well-known consumer stocks that are struggling and suggests that investors may want to consider divesting from them as they reevaluate their portfolios for 2026. Group 1: Nike - Nike has faced challenges due to changing consumer tastes and macroeconomic conditions, leading to increased competition from brands like Adidas and Under Armour [4][5] - In Q2 of fiscal 2026, Nike's revenue increased by only 1%, following a 10% decline in fiscal 2025, while net income fell 32% to $792 million due to rising expenses [6] - Despite a current price of $60.83 and a market cap of $90 billion, Nike's P/E ratio of 34 indicates it remains relatively expensive, suggesting potential reconsideration for investors [8] Group 2: Starbucks - Starbucks has struggled post-CEO Howard Schultz, facing complaints about high prices, slow service, and poor in-store experiences, which have affected its business and reputation [9][10] - In Q4 of fiscal 2025, revenue grew by 6% year-over-year, but net income plummeted 85% to $133 million due to faster expense growth and one-time restructuring charges [11][12] - With a current price of $85.07 and a market cap of $97 billion, Starbucks has a forward P/E ratio of 37, indicating it trades at a premium despite ongoing struggles [14] Group 3: Kraft Heinz - Kraft Heinz has been criticized for the failure of its merger, with Warren Buffett acknowledging its shortcomings, and the planned split of the company is unlikely to resolve core issues [15][17] - In Q3 of 2025, net sales dropped 3% annually, continuing a trend since 2023, although the company reported earnings of $615 million due to the absence of impairment losses [18] - With a current price of $24.13 and a market cap of $29 billion, Kraft Heinz's P/E ratio of 12 may attract some investors, but ongoing challenges suggest it may be best to avoid this stock [16][19]