Core Viewpoint - PepsiCo, a Dividend King with a history of consistent dividend growth, is currently facing challenges that have led to a decline in stock price and an increase in dividend yield to all-time highs [2][10]. Group 1: Company Performance - PepsiCo's sales exceeded $91 billion last year, but growth is slowing, with food volumes dropping 1% last year and a 3% year-over-year decline in the first quarter of 2025 [4][7]. - The company has historically leveraged its iconic brands and premium shelf space for pricing power, but inflation has significantly impacted food prices, which rose approximately 25% from 2019 to 2023 [5]. - Analysts' long-term earnings growth estimates for PepsiCo have decreased from about 8% to under 4%, contributing to the stock's decline [8]. Group 2: Financial Health - PepsiCo paid $5.42 per share in dividends last year while generating only $5.28 per share in free cash flow, indicating a potential strain on dividend sustainability [10]. - Despite this, PepsiCo maintains a strong financial position with $8.5 billion in cash and an "A+" credit rating from S&P Global, suggesting that the dividend is likely secure [10]. Group 3: Strategic Outlook - The company is adapting to market changes, including the rise of weight loss drugs, by acquiring emerging brands in health and specialty categories, which may help restart growth [12]. - There is potential for PepsiCo to divest brands that do not align with its strategic direction, indicating a proactive approach to maintaining competitiveness [12][13]. - For income-focused investors, PepsiCo remains an attractive option due to its above-average yield, despite the current challenges [13][14].