Boston Beer (NYSE: SAM) or Molson Coors Brewing (NYSE: TAP)—which one belongs in a retirement portfolio right now?
SAM enters 2026 with a flat-to-down shipment outlook, with tariff costs and brand investments signaling a reset year as volumes struggle to rebound.
Boston Beer (SAM) reported earnings 30 days ago. What's next for the stock?
The Boston Beer Company is rated a Strong Buy, supported by a debt-free balance sheet, robust cash flow, and aggressive buybacks. SAM posted a 34% YoY increase in FCF per share, with 2025 FCF at $215.6M and buybacks yielding 8.7% based on current levels. Management guides for flat to mid-single-digit declines in depletions/shipments, higher tariffs, and increased CAPEX to expand local capacity.
SAM posts a narrower Q4 loss than expected as revenues fall 4% on weak volumes, while 2026 guidance flags tariff and margin pressures.
The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (SAM) Q4 2025 Earnings Call Transcript
Boston Beer (SAM) came out with a quarterly loss of $2.12 per share versus the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of $2.33. This compares to a loss of $1.68 per share a year ago.
The beverage company reported lower revenue in the fourth quarter and said shifting tariff policies could significantly impact its guidance for the year.
SAM's Q4 performance is likely to reflect seasonal weakness, softer volumes and hard seltzer declines as inventory cuts and macro headwinds squeeze margins.
The Boston Beer Company (SAM) is rated Strong Buy, trading well below a conservatively estimated intrinsic value and standing to benefit from long-term consumer tailwinds. SAM boasts zero debt, $250M+ in cash, robust free cash flow, and an aggressive buyback yield estimated at ~8.9%. Despite near-term consumer headwinds and tariff risks, SAM's brands and innovation position it to benefit from long-term premiumization trends in the industry.
SAM depends on its innovation pipeline as demand shifts beyond beer, with new launches driving mix, margins and category participation.
SAM offsets falling volumes with record margins, cost cuts and a pivot to higher-margin "Beyond Beer" products.