As market volatility persists in 2024 with the presidential election on the horizon, investors look towards more stable investments. Consumer staples stocks are a reliable choice for those seeking to navigate these turbulent times.
Hershey (HSY) is undertaking buyouts to augment portfolio strength and boost revenues. The company is undertaking strategic pricing initiatives.
Hershey (HSY) concluded the recent trading session at $185.68, signifying a +1.6% move from its prior day's close.
Hershey Co. controls approximately 100 different brands and an estimated 36% of the domestic chocolate market. The company continues to spend on marketing to protect existing brands, as well as invest in R&D. It has also used this commanding lead to bolster other areas of the business and broaden out into complementary salty snacks. Hershey has already increased its dividend for 15 consecutive years. The 10-year dividend growth rate is 9.4%, which is already pretty strong, but there's actually been an acceleration in dividend growth of late.
In the most recent trading session, Hershey (HSY) closed at $182.73, indicating a -0.17% shift from the previous trading day.
Cocoa prices have been soaring this year, hitting record highs and causing headaches for candy companies. While hedging contracts protect the likes of Hershey and Mondelez for now, high cocoa prices could change how they think about innovation.
Dividends are one of the best benefits to being a shareholder, but finding a great dividend stock is no easy task. Does Hershey (HSY) have what it takes?
Hershey (HSY) undertakes strategic pricing initiatives to improve its performance. The company regularly brings innovation to its core brands to meet consumer demand.
In the latest trading session, Hershey (HSY) closed at $190.61, marking a -0.27% move from the previous day.
The Hershey Company's dividend yield has surged to almost 2.8%, among the highest levels in at least 10 years. And the company's dividends are safe, too. But limited growth potential is expected due to high payout ratios, increased debt levels, and profit headwinds. Its current P/E is close to the Graham P/E and does not properly price in the above risks in my view.
Hershey has shown resilience in the face of challenges such as cocoa price hikes and inflation, outperforming the S&P 500 for many years. The company has strong brand recognition and pricing power, which contribute to its consistent demand and profitability. With an attractive valuation and a solid dividend growth track record, Hershey offers potential annual returns of 9-11% for long-term investors.
Hershey stock is trading 25% below its all-time high amid skyrocketing cocoa prices, inflation-ridden consumers, and fears of weight-loss drugs potentially hurting sales. True to the motto "paying up for quality", I share the main reasons why I added HSY stock to my portfolio, despite the still somewhat expensive valuation. In particular, I discuss Hershey's profitability, management qualities, long-term incentives and growth opportunities.