Analysts’ Top Consumer Goods Picks: Post Holdings (POST), Walmart (WMT)
This article highlights bullish sentiments from financial analysts on three consumer goods companies: Post Holdings (POST), Walmart (WMT), and Monster Beverage (MNST). Analysts from Jefferies, Telsey Advisory, and Evercore ISI maintained Buy ratings for these companies, citing price targets that suggest significant upside from current levels. The consensus among analysts indicates Moderate to Strong Buy ratings for all three stocks in the consumer goods sector.
Hershey Company (The) $HSY Stock Position Lifted by Handelsbanken Fonder AB
Handelsbanken Fonder AB has increased its stake in The Hershey Company (HSY) by 24.9% in the fourth quarter, bringing its total holdings to 76,444 shares valued at approximately $13.9 million. Despite insider selling from CFO Steven E. Voskuil and SVP Jason Reiman, Hershey surpassed its quarterly earnings and revenue expectations, reporting $2.35 EPS on $3.10 billion in revenue, and declared a quarterly dividend of $1.452 per share. Analysts currently hold a "Hold" rating on Hershey, with an average target price of $217.78.
Campbell Soup Co. stock (US1280301048): dividend focus as investors weigh margins and demand
Campbell Soup Co. is currently attracting investor attention due to its robust dividend, ongoing margin pressure, and evolving consumer demand in the US packaged-food market. The stock, trading near its 52-week low, offers a high dividend yield, making it appealing to income-oriented investors despite questions regarding volume growth and pricing power. The company's future performance will depend on its ability to manage costs, reduce debt, and adapt its brands to changing consumer preferences in a competitive environment.
Mondelez International (MDLZ) director awarded 3,525 deferred stock units
Mondelez International director 't Hart Cees was awarded 3,525 deferred stock units of Class A Common Stock on May 20, 2026, under the company's 2024 Performance Incentive Plan. These units are fully vested but the shares will be delivered six months after the director's separation from the board. Following this grant, the director's direct holdings in Mondelez total 12,217 shares, a figure that includes approximately 476 shares accumulated through a dividend reinvestment program.
Hershey’s chocolate products will shift back to classic recipes amid lower cocoa prices
The Hershey Company plans to restore classic recipes to some "chocolate candy" products by increasing cocoa content, following a decrease in cocoa prices and consumer criticism. The change will primarily affect a small number of Hershey's and Reese's products that had previously shifted to lower-chocolate coatings, with enhancements taking effect in 2027. This move comes after industry-wide adjustments due to high cocoa costs and a relative of the founder criticizing the quality of ingredients.
Hershey’s chocolate products will shift back to classic recipes amid lower cocoa prices
The Hershey Company announced it will revert some of its "chocolate candy" products, including certain Hershey's and Reese's items, back to their classic milk and dark chocolate recipes with increased cocoa content. This decision comes as cocoa prices have fallen from their record highs and follows consumer complaints about ingredient substitutions. The enhancements are expected to take effect in 2027, and Hershey's also plans to boost its research and development funding by 25%.
Hershey’s chocolate products will shift back to classic recipes amid lower cocoa prices
The Hershey Company is planning to restore more cocoa to some of its "chocolate candy" products, returning them to classic milk and dark chocolate recipes. This decision follows a decrease in cocoa prices and consumer complaints regarding ingredient changes. While most of Hershey's products have always used real chocolate, a small number of Hershey's and Reese's items had shifted to lower-chocolate coatings during a recent cocoa shortage.
Mondelez (NASDAQ: MDLZ) director Todman receives 3,525 deferred stock units
Mondelez International director Michael Todman was granted 3,525 deferred stock units of Class A common stock under the company’s 2024 Performance Incentive Plan. These units, received at no cash cost, are fully vested, but the shares will be delivered six months after Todman's departure from the board. Following this award, Todman beneficially owns 23,406 shares, including shares from a dividend reinvestment program.
Mondelez (MDLZ) director receives 3,525 deferred share units
Mondelez International director Jorge S. Mesquita was granted 3,525 deferred stock units under the company's 2024 Performance Incentive Plan. These units are fully vested but the shares will be delivered six months after his departure from the board, bringing his total direct ownership to 69,513 shares, including those from a dividend reinvestment program. The filing, a Form 4, indicates a neutral impact and sentiment regarding this insider transaction.
Paula A. Price of Mondelez (MDLZ) granted 3,525 deferred units
Mondelez International director Paula A. Price was granted 3,525 deferred stock units under the company's 2024 Performance Incentive Plan. These units are fully vested but the shares will not be delivered until six months after her separation from the board. Following this grant, Price directly owns 9,662 shares of Class A Common Stock, which includes approximately 279 shares acquired through a dividend reinvestment program.
Mondelez (MDLZ) director receives 3,525 deferred stock units in equity grant
Mondelez International director Ertharin Cousin received an equity award of 3,525 deferred stock units of Class A Common Stock under the company’s 2024 Performance Incentive Plan, granted at no cash purchase price and 100% vested. These shares will be delivered six months after her separation from service as a director. Following this grant, Cousin directly holds a total of 17,167 shares, including shares from a dividend reinvestment program.
[Form 4] Mondelez International, Inc. Insider Trading Activity
Mondelez International director Siewert Patrick reported a grant of 3,525 shares of Class A Common Stock as deferred stock units under the company's 2024 Performance Incentive Plan. These units are fully vested but deferred until six months after his separation from service. Following this transaction, Siewert directly owns 62,772 shares of Mondelez International common stock, including shares from a dividend reinvestment program.
What's the Current State of Simply Good Foods (SMPL) Ahead of Q2 Earnings
Simply Good Foods (SMPL) is approaching its Q2 earnings report amidst a complex market landscape, with investors closely watching for signs of growth and margin recovery after a mixed Q1. The company plans to reaccelerate growth through new distribution, innovation, and strategic positioning of its Atkins brand for GLP-1 users. While Quest and OWYN show promise, the declining Atkins brand and ongoing margin pressures remain significant challenges, making successful execution of its turnaround strategy critical.
Mondelēz International Declares Regular Quarterly Dividend of $0.50 per share
Mondelēz International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MDLZ) announced that its Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.50 per share of Class A common stock. This dividend is scheduled for payment on July 14, 2026, to shareholders of record as of June 30, 2026. The company, known for brands like Oreo and Cadbury, empowering people to snack right in over 150 countries.
Mondelez Targets Gamers And Margins With SOUR PATCH KIDS And AI Upgrades
Mondelez International is launching SOUR PATCH KIDS CHEWS, targeting gamers with custom packaging and promotions on Twitch and YouTube. Simultaneously, the company is implementing automation and AI upgrades in its U.S. manufacturing and distribution to improve margins and in-source packaging operations. These strategic moves aim to refresh the brand, engage a new consumer base, and enhance operational efficiency.
Hershey, Reece’s to return to real chocolate formulas as cocoa prices drop
Hershey has announced it will return to original chocolate recipes for its Hershey's and Reese's products next year, increasing cocoa content. This decision follows a significant 70% drop in cocoa futures prices since late 2024, which makes traditional chocolate production more profitable than chocolate alternatives. Other companies are expected to follow suit, leading to potentially lower prices for consumers and increased demand for cocoa farmers.
Will cocoa alts ever be sexy? Hershey backlash opens the debate
The debate surrounding cocoa alternatives has intensified following a backlash against The Hershey Company regarding undisclosed ingredient changes. While cocoa shortages are driving innovation in alt-chocolate, consumer trust and taste remain critical barriers to mainstream adoption. Companies like Win-Win, Mondelēz (through Celleste Bio), and Nestlé (with ChoViva from Planet A Foods) are investing heavily in fermentation and processing techniques to mimic chocolate's flavor and texture, aiming to create sustainable and ethical alternatives without fully replacing traditional cocoa.
Mondelēz International Declares Regular Quarterly Dividend of $0.50 per share
Mondelēz International (Nasdaq: MDLZ) has announced a regular quarterly dividend of $0.50 per share of Class A common stock. This dividend is scheduled to be paid on July 14, 2026, to shareholders who are on record as of June 30, 2026. The company, known for its snack brands, reported net revenues of approximately $38.5 billion in 2025.
Mondelēz International Declares Regular Quarterly Dividend of $0.50 per share
Mondelēz International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MDLZ) announced that its Board of Directors has declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.50 per share of Class A common stock. This dividend is scheduled to be paid on July 14, 2026, to shareholders of record as of June 30, 2026. The company, known for brands like Oreo and Cadbury, reported approximately $38.5 billion in net revenues for 2025.
Mondelēz will pay $0.50 per share to holders of record June 30
Mondelēz International declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.50 per share on its Class A common stock. The dividend is payable on July 14, 2026, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 30, 2026. This announcement reflects the company's continuous practice of returning cash to its shareholders.
Campbell's Cream of Mushroom soup: uses, flavor, and trends
This article provides an overview of Campbell's Cream of Mushroom soup, detailing its common uses, flavor profile, and significance as a pantry staple in US kitchens. It highlights the soup's role in quick meals and casseroles, its widespread availability in the US, and its importance to both consumers and the packaged foods industry. The content also touches on how the product is utilized in recipes and its market position.
VML: OREO's OREO Walks
VML created the "OREO Walks" campaign to boost impulse purchases of OREO cookies by engaging shoppers before they entered stores. Crosswalks outside select Kroger stores in Cincinnati and Columbus were transformed to resemble stacks of OREO cookies, with subtle character art. Shoppers could scan QR codes on the pavement for special offers, effectively turning out-of-home advertising into an interactive and shoppable experience.
L & S Advisors Inc Invests $3.90 Million in Hershey Company (The) $HSY
L & S Advisors Inc initiated a new position in Hershey Company (HSY) during the fourth quarter, purchasing 21,436 shares valued at approximately $3.9 million. This investment follows Hershey's stronger-than-expected quarterly results, with EPS of $2.35 and revenue of $3.10 billion. Despite the positive earnings, analysts maintain a cautious outlook, with a consensus "Hold" rating and an average target price of $218.33 for the stock.
How AI is making Unilever Foods unmissable online and in-store
Unilever's €12.9 billion Foods business is leveraging AI to enhance brand visibility, accelerate innovation, and deliver hyper-personalized experiences online and in-store. AI-driven platforms help brands like Hellmann's and Knorr stay relevant by optimizing search performance, cutting product development time in half, and providing tailored recommendations for foodservice operators. This strategic use of AI ensures Unilever's Power Brands remain unmissable in a rapidly evolving digital and culinary landscape.
Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich Has $9.06 Million Stock Position in Hershey Company (The) $HSY
Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich reduced its stake in Hershey Company by 12.9% in the fourth quarter, selling 7,381 shares and now owning 49,755 shares valued at $9.06 million. Hershey reported strong quarterly results, beating EPS and revenue estimates, and announced a quarterly dividend of $1.452 per share. Analyst consensus for the stock is currently "Hold" with a price target of $218.33.
130,098 Shares in Hershey Company (The) $HSY Purchased by Arbejdsmarkedets Tillaegspension
Arbejdsmarkedets Tillaegspension acquired a new position of 130,098 shares in The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY) during the fourth quarter, valued at approximately $23.68 million. Other institutional investors like Vanguard Group Inc., State Street Corp, and Northern Trust Corp also increased their holdings in Hershey. The company recently reported strong quarterly earnings, exceeding analyst expectations, and announced a quarterly dividend of $1.452 per share.
Campbell Soup stock (US1280301048): Results and grocery demand in focus
Campbell Soup's latest earnings report highlights how demand, pricing, and costs are influencing its snacks and meals businesses. The company's performance is a key indicator for grocery spending trends and household budgets, making it important for U.S. investors, particularly those focused on consumer staples and dividend-oriented portfolios. Ongoing challenges include sustaining pricing without volume erosion, managing competitive pressures, and ensuring efficient execution amidst a slower-growth consumer environment.
Unilever shaken by investor exit as McCormick deal unsettles shareholders
Unilever's $40bn merger of its Foods business with McCormick & Company is facing significant investor backlash, causing shares to plummet and prompting a major investor, Terry Smith, to sell his entire stake. Smith criticizes Unilever for prioritizing activist-driven deals over operational focus, specifically questioning the industrial logic of the McCormick merger. The company, however, maintains the deal will create two stronger businesses and is in the best interests of shareholders, but continued share pressure could force a reevaluation.
Rayburn West Financial Services LLC Invests $938,000 in Hershey Company (The) $HSY
Rayburn West Financial Services LLC has acquired a new position in The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY), purchasing 5,152 shares valued at approximately $938,000 during the fourth quarter. This comes amidst recent insider selling activity, with approximately 10,000 shares worth $2.19 million sold by insiders like Rohit Grover and Jason Reiman over the last 90 days. Hershey recently surpassed earnings expectations, reporting an EPS of $2.35 on $3.10 billion in revenue, and analysts currently maintain a consensus "Hold" rating with an average price target of $218.33.
Hershey Company (The) $HSY Shares Sold by Swiss Life Asset Management Ltd
Swiss Life Asset Management Ltd reduced its stake in Hershey Company by 18.6% in the fourth quarter, selling 6,610 shares and holding 29,007 shares valued at $5.28 million. Despite this, several other institutional investors, including Vanguard Group Inc. and State Street Corp, increased their holdings. Hershey reported strong quarterly results, beating EPS and revenue expectations, and declared a quarterly dividend of $1.452 per share, while analysts maintain an average "Hold" rating with a consensus price target of $218.33.
Hershey Company stock (US4278661081): Shares surge 3.2% amid dividend and rebound
Hershey Company shares surged 3.2% to $191.91 on May 12, 2026, ahead of an ex-dividend date on May 15, paying $1.452 per share. This rebound follows a previous 25% drop and is supported by recent earnings that beat consensus. The company's strong brand presence in the US confectionery market and consistent dividends make it an attractive option for retail investors.
Monster Beverage stock (US6092071058): Rothschild upgrade to Buy on international growth
Rothschild & Co Redburn upgraded Monster Beverage (MNST) from Neutral to Buy, citing the company's significant untapped international growth potential, with only a 14% market share abroad. The upgrade follows Monster Beverage's strong Q4 2025 net sales of $2.13 billion, representing a 17.6% increase year-over-year. The article highlights Monster Beverage's strong position in the energy drink sector, its strategic partnership with Coca-Cola, and its appeal to US investors looking for exposure to the fast-growing segment with lower volatility.
Analysts Offer Insights on Consumer Goods Companies: Conagra Brands (CAG) and Sysco (SYY)
Bernstein analysts have maintained "Hold" ratings on both Conagra Brands (CAG) and Sysco (SYY), indicating a neutral stance on these consumer goods stocks. Conagra Brands has an analyst consensus of "Hold" with an average price target of $15.68, while Sysco holds a "Moderate Buy" consensus with a price target of $85.82 despite a recent downgrade to "Hold" by TipRanks – PerPlexity.
Campbell Soup Co. stock (US1280301048): Iconic US food brand with steady consumer demand
Campbell Soup Co. maintains a strong position in the US consumer staples sector due to steady demand for its iconic soups, snacks, and beverages. The company's business model leverages strong brand equity in its Meals & Beverages and Snacks segments, with a focus on core US markets. Investors see Campbell Soup as a defensive play in the S&P 500, offering dividend payments and resilience against economic fluctuations, though it faces challenges from inflation and changing consumer preferences.
General Mills stock (US3703391032): Barclays lowers price target to $36
Barclays has maintained its rating on General Mills (GIS) but lowered its price target to $36.00 due to ongoing share price pressure, with the stock recently trading at $34.13. General Mills operates as a major global packaged food company, known for brands like Cheerios and Nature Valley, with a strong presence in the US retail sector and a focus on innovation in snacks and pet nutrition. Despite its robust market position and emphasis on stable consumer staples, competitive pressures and economic factors warrant caution for investors.
Russia Keeps Attacking U.S. Firms in Ukraine. The White House Is Silent.
Russian forces have been deliberately targeting facilities belonging to major American companies, including Coca-Cola, Cargill, Mondelez, and Philip Morris, in Ukraine. The attacks, some of which have not been previously reported, have raised concerns among corporations who are trying to avoid alarming investors. The Trump administration's muted response to these incidents has also generated criticism.
Pokémon fans get 151 Hershey’s Kisses foils and a Team Rocket hunt
Hershey is expanding its Pokémon collaboration for 2026, marking the franchise's 30th anniversary with limited-edition Hershey's Kisses featuring 151 Poké Ball foils and 10 new Team Rocket designs. The initiative includes a QR-powered digital hub for tracking collections and entering contests, and an Instagram storyline where Team Rocket attempts to "steal" the Kisses. Additionally, Pirate's Booty will release Pikachu-shaped puffs with interactive activities this summer, enhancing the family-focused marketing strategy.
Hershey’s bets on AI to power growth
The Hershey Company is implementing new AI-powered systems to revolutionize its marketing and decision-making processes. By analyzing extensive marketing data in real-time, Hershey aims to optimize advertising spend and make informed decisions based on current market conditions rather than historical data. This strategic shift towards AI is expected to enhance efficiency, innovation, and competitive advantage across the confectionery sector.
Mondelez Earnings: Sales Growth Amid Persistent Inflationary Environment Evidences Brand Prowess
Mondelez reported a 3% organic sales growth in the first quarter, driven by a 3.5% increase from higher prices, although volume declined by 0.5%. Despite productivity savings, the adjusted operating margin decreased by 310 basis points to 11.7% due to cocoa inflation and increased brand spending. This performance highlights the company's brand strength in a challenging inflationary environment.
XLP vs. PBJ: A Low-Cost Staples Giant Against a Concentrated Food-and-Beverage Specialist
This article compares two ETFs, State Street Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLP) and Invesco Food & Beverage ETF (PBJ), both focusing on consumer defensive sectors. XLP offers broad, low-cost exposure to large-cap staples with a lower expense ratio and higher dividend yield, managing significantly more assets. PBJ, while more concentrated on food and beverage with a dynamic index strategy, has higher fees and a smaller asset base, making XLP generally more appealing for most investors seeking cost efficiency and broad market exposure.
UNIVEST FINANCIAL Corp Sells 52,604 Shares of Mondelez International, Inc. $MDLZ
UNIVEST FINANCIAL Corp reduced its stake in Mondelez International (MDLZ) by 29.4% in the fourth quarter, selling 52,604 shares and decreasing its total holdings to 126,271 shares valued at approximately $6.8 million. This comes as Mondelez reported stronger-than-expected quarterly earnings, with EPS of $0.67 and revenue of $10.08 billion, surpassing analyst estimates. Despite some insider selling and mixed analyst ratings, the company maintains a "Moderate Buy" consensus with an average price target of $67.05, and recently paid a quarterly dividend of $0.50 per share.
Hershey Company (The) $HSY Shares Sold by Generali Asset Management SPA SGR
Generali Asset Management SPA SGR reduced its stake in Hershey Company by 39.6% in the fourth quarter, selling 6,709 shares and retaining 10,254 shares valued at $1.87 million. Despite this, other hedge funds increased their holdings. Hershey recently reported stronger-than-expected quarterly earnings with EPS of $2.35 and revenue of $3.10 billion, and declared a quarterly dividend of $1.452 per share, while analysts maintain a consensus "Hold" rating with an average target price of $218.33.
Campbell Soup Co. stock (US1280301048): Earnings and dividend update in focus for US investors
Campbell Soup Co. recently released its quarterly financial results, showing a modest increase in net sales driven by price increases and a favorable product mix, while also reaffirming its commitment to dividend payouts. The company, a prominent player in the US packaged food market, continues to face challenges from inflation and evolving consumer preferences. Despite these headwinds, its strong brand portfolio and domestic focus position it as a resilient, income-oriented investment, though investors should consider market pressures and valuation before making decisions.
Kraft Heinz CEO pushes value: ‘Consumers are literally running out of money’
Kraft Heinz's new CEO, Steve Cahillane, is shifting the company's focus to providing better value for consumers amid rising affordability concerns. The strategy includes lowering prices, expanding promotional deals, and introducing smaller package sizes. Cahillane emphasized the importance of affordability, stating that consumers are "literally running out of money" by the end of the month, and warned that new global conflicts could further fuel inflation.
Sysco Strikes a $29 Billion Deal for Restaurant Depot: Is SYY Stock Still Worth Buying at $73?
Sysco (SYY) recently announced a $29 billion acquisition of Restaurant Depot, aiming to expand into the higher-margin cash-and-carry food distribution sector. While Q3 fiscal 2026 sales and net earnings presented a mixed picture, a valuation model projects SYY stock could rise to $90 per share by June 2028, suggesting a 23.3% total return including dividends. The success of this acquisition and its integration, alongside handling debt and labor relations, will be key to Sysco's future performance and investor returns.
Mondelez (MDLZ) SVP Stevens reports small stock sales and gifts
Mondelez International SVP and Chief Accounting Officer Brian Stevens reported insider transactions involving small sales and gifts of Class A Common Stock. He sold 64 shares through open-market transactions at prices around $61.55 and $61.46 per share, and made bona fide gifts of 40 shares. After these transactions, Stevens now directly holds 2,041 shares and zero indirectly through the trust.
The LUNA Brand Debuts New "Easy to Love" Campaign Starring Jessica Alba as Brand Fan Turned Ambassador
LUNA Bar has launched a new "Easy to Love" campaign featuring Jessica Alba as its first brand ambassador. Alba, a long-time fan, will highlight the brand's quality ingredients and taste across various social media platforms. This campaign also coincides with the introduction of new Berry Bars, marking a significant transformation for LUNA Bar with its first major creative effort and bar innovation in years.
The Hershey Company Just Beat Earnings Expectations: Here's What Analysts Think Will Happen Next
The Hershey Company reported strong first-quarter results, surpassing revenue and EPS expectations. Despite the positive earnings beat, analysts have not significantly altered their financial forecasts for 2026, maintaining revenue estimates at US$12.3 billion and EPS at US$8.00, with the consensus price target remaining at US$217. While Hershey's revenue growth is expected to slow compared to historical performance, it is projected to grow in line with the industry average.
Kraft Heinz Stock Alert: Vanguard’s 5.34% Stake Puts KHC In Focus Before Earnings
Vanguard Capital Management has reported a 5.34% passive stake in Kraft Heinz, comprising 63.3 million shares, ahead of the company's first-quarter earnings release on May 6. This disclosure comes as Kraft Heinz implements a $600 million turnaround plan to address sluggish demand and declining sales. The market is closely watching if ongoing strategies to boost volume, pricing, and market share will yield positive results, especially given the company's prior struggles and a halted separation plan.
McDonald's and Coca-Cola caught trying to gut Europe's landmark plastics law months before it takes effect
McDonald's, Coca-Cola, and other major corporations are lobbying European leaders to weaken the upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which is set to take effect in four months. These companies are pushing to delay a ban on PFAS in food packaging, eliminate the 2030 phase-out of single-use plastics, and dismantle reuse targets. Greenpeace argues that this is a coordinated effort by polluters to undermine critical environmental protections and continue relying on flawed recycling practices over more sustainable reuse methods.
