Trading commentary ahead of AGM 2024 LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM / ACCESSWIRE / September 26, 2024 / Debra Crew, Chief Executive, commented: "Our expectations are unchanged from when we reported our fiscal 24 preliminary results on 30 July 2024. The global environment remains challenging for both our industry and Diageo.
Diageo PLC (LSE:DGE) has a sell rating slapped on it by UBS, adding its voice to a growing list of brokers expressing concern about the pricing trends in the US spirits sector. The Swiss bank sees weak pricing extending into 2025 with its concern that the industry is losing its pricing power as consumers become more price-sensitive.
Diageo (NYSE: DEO) has seen around a 20% fall in value since early January 2023 – declining from levels of $166 then to $133 now – vs. an increase of 51% for the S&P 500 over this period.
Diageo's stock has declined nearly 40% since 2021 due to rising interest rates, negative sentiment toward UK equities, and stalled growth. Despite a near-decade high dividend yield of 3.2%, Diageo's modest growth outlook and inflationary pressures dampen investor confidence. The company faces challenges like weak demand in key markets, rising costs, and a shift toward non-alcoholic alternatives, impacting sales and margins.
DEO faces hurdles from shifting consumer sentiment and high inventory in LAC, while a cautious consumer backdrop impacts its U.S. Spirits segment in North America.
Thanksgiving is right around the corner, whether we like to acknowledge that fact or not.
Diageo is a quality beverage business with a low P/E ratio and a high yield, making it an attractive investment opportunity. Despite some challenges and declines in the sector, Diageo is expected to rebound and offer a potential 15%+ annualized return. The company's strong position in the market, diverse footprint, and potential for long-term demand make it a solid investment choice.
Pernod Ricard's latest results had a knock-on effect on rivals Diageo PLC (LSE:DGE) and spirits group Fevertree Drinks (AIM:FEVR) as gin sales at the French group were notably weak. Among the brands Beefeater Gin volumes were down 10%, noted Peel Hunt, which pointed out this is an unhelpful read for tonic specialist Fevertree, although one that has already been flagged.
Diageo PLC (LSE:DGE) got an early boost on Thursday after China backtracked on plans to introduce anti-dumping measures on imported brandy. Shares in the FTSE 100-listed beverage company climbed early on before falling as they began trading without the right to their latest dividend award.
Diageo's H2 2024 results fell short of expectations due to FX impacts and a decline in average selling prices, despite slightly higher shipment volumes. Management remains cautious about the 2025 outlook due to moderate global consumer demand and the cost of financing working capital. The company continues to invest in marketing and production, which supports future growth prospects, particularly in markets like Asia with healthy sales performance.
Has a reality check on the so-called ‘premiumisation' trend in the beverage sector caused British multinational alcoholic drinks supplier Diageo PLC (LSE:DGE) to become one of the worst FTSE 100 performers over the past 12 months? Premium, or ‘reserve' brands, as Diageo has historically called them, include the likes of Johnnie Walker Blue, single malts, Don Julio tequila and Zacapa rum.
Not the expected quarter, but we are positive on premiumization, scale, and new markets. Good inventory levels worldwide and near-term actions to support Diageo's operating profit margin. Discount compared to the company's historical average and the Staples sector. Diageo is gaining market share with a favorable price MIX. Our buy rating is confirmed.