Mondelez International, Inc., through its subsidiaries, manufactures, markets, and sells snack food and beverage products in the Latin America, North America, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. It provides biscuits and baked snacks, including cookies, crackers, salted snacks, snack bars, and cakes and pastries; chocolates; and gums and candies, as well as various cheese and grocery, and powdered beverage products. The company's brand portfolio includes Oreo, Ritz, LU, CLIF Bar, and Tate's Bake Shop biscuits and baked snacks, as well as Cadbury Dairy Milk, Milka, and Toblerone chocolate. It serves supermarket chains, wholesalers, supercenters, club stores, mass merchandisers, distributors, convenience stores, gasoline stations, drug stores, value stores, and other retail food outlets through direct store delivery, company-owned and satellite warehouses, distribution centers, third party distributors, and other facilities, as well as through independent sales offices and agents. The company also sells products directly to businesses and consumers through e-retail platforms, retailer digital platforms, as well as through its direct-to-consumer websites and social media platforms. Mondelez International, Inc. was formerly known as Kraft Foods Inc. and changed its name to Mondelez International, Inc. in October 2012. The company was incorporated in 2000 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

Mondelez looks like a high-quality defensive consumer business, but no longer a cheap one: profitability and cash generation remain strong, yet the valuation is noticeably above the sector average. A P/E of 22.57 is 19.7% above the sector median, while P/S of 2.01, P/B of 2.96, and P/FCF of 25.84 significantly exceed industry benchmarks, limiting re-rating potential. At the same time, the multiples have not deteriorated dramatically compared with previous periods, which means the market has already partially priced in the business’s resilience. Operating margin of 11.22% and net margin of 8.86% look strong and above the industry median, supporting the valuation premium. EBITDA, operating income, and net income on a TTM basis are at a high level, while revenue remains large and stable, which is important for a company with a global brand portfolio. On the other hand, ROA of 4.93% is below the industry median, and ROI of 8.23% and ROE of 13.44% do not look exceptional enough to justify very high multiples. Liquidity is weak: a quick ratio of 0.40 and current ratio of 0.60 are significantly below the sector norm, so the balance sheet remains dependent on stable cash flow and refinancing. Leverage is moderate, but debt/equity of 0.62 is above the industry median, and long-term debt remains material, which adds caution to the valuation. Dividend yield is effectively absent in the current data, removing one of the key arguments in favor of a defensive stock for investors. Over the past five years, the profile looks more stable than accelerating: earnings and margins have fluctuated, but without a convincing trend toward strong improvement. Overall, the fundamentals support the company as a reliable consumer staples name, but the high relative valuation and weak liquidity do not allow for an aggressive increase in the target price. Therefore, the adjustment should be moderately negative and conservative, reflecting a premium valuation in the absence of a clear acceleration in business quality.

Mondelez International, Inc.

Сильный индекс, значительно упал. Быки в растерянности.

Strong index, significantly down. The bulls are confused.

Сильный индекс, значительно вырос. Рынок на стороне быков.

Strong index, significantly up. The market is on the bulls' side.

Слабый индекс, незначительно вырос. Увеличился приток средств в лонги.

Weak index, slightly up. The inflow of funds into longs has increased.

Mondelez’s strong margins and profitability support a premium, but its high valuation, weak liquidity, and moderate debt limit upside potential.

Investors interested in stocks from the Food - Miscellaneous sector have probably already heard of Danone (DANOY) and Mondelez (MDLZ). But which of these two stocks offers value investors a better bang for their buck right now? We'll need to take a closer look.
We have found that the best way to discover great value opportunities is to pair a strong Zacks Rank with a great grade in the Value category of our Style Scores system. The Zacks Rank favors stocks with strong earnings estimate revision trends, and our Style Scores highlight companies with specific traits.
Danone and Mondelez are sporting Zacks Ranks of #2 (Buy) and #3 (Hold), respectively, right now. This means that DANOY's earnings estimate revision activity has been more impressive, so investors should feel comfortable with its improving analyst outlook. But this is just one piece of the puzzle for value investors.
Value investors analyze a variety of traditional, tried-and-true metrics to help find companies that they believe are undervalued at their current share price levels.
Our Value category grades stocks based on a number of key metrics, including the tried-and-true P/E ratio, the P/S ratio, earnings yield, and cash flow per share, as well as a variety of other fundamentals that value investors frequently use.
DANOY currently has a forward P/E ratio of 15.86, while MDLZ has a forward P/E of 20.47. We also note that DANOY has a PEG ratio of 2.42. This popular metric is similar to the widely-known P/E ratio, with the difference being that the PEG ratio also takes into account the company's expected earnings growth rate. MDLZ currently has a PEG ratio of 2.44.
Another notable valuation metric for DANOY is its P/B ratio of 2.38. The P/B ratio is used to compare a stock's market value with its book value, which is defined as total assets minus total liabilities. For comparison, MDLZ has a P/B of 2.99.
These metrics, and several others, help DANOY earn a Value grade of B, while MDLZ has been given a Value grade of D.
DANOY sticks out from MDLZ in both our Zacks Rank and Style Scores models, so value investors will likely feel that DANOY is the better option right now.
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DANOY or MDLZ: Which Is the Better Value Stock Right Now?

Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel, one standout is the State Street Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ETF (Symbol: XLP) where we have detected an approximate $324.1 million dollar inflow -- that's a 2.3% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 169,771,809 to 173,671,809). Among the largest underlying components of XLP, in trading today Target Corp (Symbol: TGT) is off about 0.1%, Colgate-Palmolive Co. (Symbol: CL) is down about 0.1%, and Mondelez International Inc (Symbol: MDLZ) is lower by about 0.1%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the XLP Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of XLP, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, XLP's low point in its 52 week range is $75.16 per share, with $90.14 as the 52 week high point — that compares with a last trade of $83.36. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average ».
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs.
Further XLP Research:

Noteworthy ETF Inflows: XLP, TGT, CL, MDLZ

PepsiCo, Inc. PEP is seeing improving momentum across its snack portfolio, supported by stronger international demand, portfolio innovation and targeted affordability initiatives. In the second quarter of 2026, global convenient foods organic volume increased 3%, while international convenient foods organic volume rose 4%, underscoring broad-based demand across key markets.
In North America, PepsiCo Foods North America continued to improve volume share across both U.S. savory and salty categories, alongside better household penetration trends. The U.S. salty-snack category has now delivered volume growth for three consecutive quarters. PepsiCo gained volume share across multiple categories, including potato chips, tortilla chips, pretzels, curls and puffs, SunChips, Quaker rice snacks and other offerings. Doritos, Ruffles and Miss Vickie’s also generated both volume and net revenue growth during the quarter.
Portfolio diversification is another key driver. Portion-control multipacks, representing more than $3.5 billion in annual net revenues, delivered volume and revenue growth. Meanwhile, permissible offerings such as Baked, Simply, SunChips, Siete and Quaker Rice Cakes also posted strong gains. PepsiCo is further expanding choices through protein, fiber and diverse-ingredient products, including Doritos Protein, PopCorners Protein and SunChips Fiber.
Internationally, PepsiCo is scaling brands, sharpening price-pack architecture, and emphasizing locally relevant flavors and formats. Together, these initiatives are broadening consumer appeal and supporting volume growth despite pressure on household budgets.
Are PEP’s Snacking Peers Like MDLZ & HSY Gaining Traction?
PepsiCo’s snacking peers, including Mondelez International Inc. MDLZ and The Hershey Company HSY, are also leaning on portfolio innovation, brand strength and evolving consumer preferences to sustain momentum in the competitive snacks market.
Mondelez International is gaining traction across its snack portfolio, supported by emerging-market strength, broader distribution and innovation. Management cited strong volume in the second quarter of 2026, with North America delivering positive volume mix and share gains across categories. Growth was aided by Ritz, Oreo, Perfect Snacks, Tate’s and Hu, alongside value-channel and away-from-home expansion. Innovation in protein, gluten-free, zero-sugar and premium offerings is also helping broaden consumption occasions and sustain momentum globally.
Hershey’s snack portfolio is gaining momentum as strong consumer demand supports brands such as Dot’s Pretzels, SkinnyPop and LesserEvil. Management said that Dot’s continues to lead growth, with supply-chain constraints largely behind the business and automation helping improve throughput. Premium, permissible positioning is also resonating, while stronger activation around salty-snack occasions, including fall football, should help capture additional demand and support volume improvement.
PEP’s Price Performance, Valuation & Estimates
Shares of PepsiCo have lost 2.2% in the past three months against the industry’s rise of 4.9%.
From a valuation standpoint, PEP trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 15.54X, below the industry’s average of 19.41X.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PEP’s 2026 and 2027 earnings implies year-over-year growth of 5.3% and 4.9%, respectively. The company’s EPS estimate for 2026 has been unchanged in the past 30 days. Meanwhile, the consensus mark for 2027 EPS has moved down by a penny in the past seven days.
PEP currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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PepsiCo's Snack Portfolio: What's Driving Volume Gains?

Key Points
Mondelez may just be the most enticing of the Nasdaq-100 stocks yielding north of 3%.
It's been the best performer of the index's three high-dividend staples stocks.
It trades at a noticeable discount to Nasdaq-100's two most prominent staples holdings.
The Nasdaq-100 is many things. Widely followed index? Check. A roster of famed large- and mega-cap growth companies? Definitely. A history of long-term outperformance over other domestic equity indexes? You bet.
A dividend destination? Not so much. While marquee components such as Apple and Microsoft, among others, have evolved into legitimate dividend growth stories, the largest exchange-traded fund (ETF) tracking the Nasdaq-100 yields a paltry 0.4%. That's not even half of the roughly 1% that investors find in an S&P 500 index fund, and that's saying something, because the S&P 500's current dividend yield is near all-time lows.
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The quest to find high-dividend stocks in the Nasdaq-100 isn't hard. The pool comprises just eight names, one of which is Mondelez (NASDAQ: MDLZ). Yes, the tech-heavy Nasdaq-100 has some exposure to consumer staples. A mere 2.1% to be exact, but three of the index's components from that sector, including Mondelez, yield 3% or more.
The Oreo maker isn't just the safest bet of that trio. For long-term investors, it could easily be the best (or one of the top) performers of that group of eight. Multiple reasons support my bullish view of this snack giant, particularly when comparing it with its "peers" in the Nasdaq-100.
Better by comparison and some diversification, too
As noted above, Mondelez is one of three consumer staples stocks in the Nasdaq-100 yielding at least 3%. The other two are Kraft Heinz (NASDAQ: KHC) and PepsiCo (NASDAQ: PEP). Those are big names, to be sure, and, to its credit, PepsiCo is a Dividend King, or one of the companies with a payout increase streak of at least 50 years.
In the case of Kraft Heinz, that's a stock that flummoxed some of the biggest names in investing, and waiting on its redemption story is turning into a Waiting for Godot moment. Bottom line: Mondelez has beaten Kraft and Pepsi over the past 10 years, and that feat can be repeated.
Owing to the utility sector's status as a high-yield hangout, it's not surprising that three such stocks are among the eight Nasdaq-100 stocks yielding 3% or more. That trio consists of American Electric Power, Exelon, and Xcel Energy. These utility stocks have clear ties to the artificial intelligence (AI) trade, but that may not be all it's cracked up to be.
Investors have avenues for potentially superior AI returns in other sectors, and those AI ties could reduce some of the safety associated with utilities equities. Plus, with the Federal Reserve unlikely to lower interest rates anytime soon, debt-laden utilities may lack catalysts.
With $21 billion in liabilities, Mondelez is no "debt angel," but given that most of that debt doesn't mature over the next five years, a case can be made that the Ritz maker is less rate-sensitive than utilities stocks.
As for the other two Nasdaq-100 names in the 3%-plus yield club, that's Comcast and Paychex. Comcast yields close to 5%, the result of a five-year decline of nearly 54%. Some might argue the stock is inexpensive, but it's challenged by declines in the old-guard broadband business, and its cash-flow and earnings growth outlooks appear light relative to longer-running averages.
Paychex was one of the software names caught up in the "SaaSpocalypse" earlier this year. While the company has done an admirable job of allaying those concerns, as highlighted by a 25.7% gain over the past 90 days, it's still a purveyor of human resources (HR) software in a lethargic job market. I'll take Mondelez's reduced macroeconomic sensitivity.
Sort of a discount
One of the rubs with the consumer staples sector is that investors pay up on valuation for the privilege of accessing the group's defensive traits. However, it's mainly Costco Wholesale and Walmart that skew the sector's valuation higher. Yes, Costco has a stellar long-term growth track record, but it trades at 46.7 times earnings. At 28.4 times earnings, Nvidia looks cheap by comparison.
Valuation isn't a concern with Mondelez. In fact, some experts view the stock as deeply discounted, particularly when measured against Costco and Walmart, which are the largest staples names in the Nasdaq-100.
That discount doesn't mean investors are sacrificing upside potential or solid fundamentals. Mondelez is considered one of the best-run food companies, revenue grew at a decent 3.3% compound annual growth rate over the past five years, and earnings could grow at more 9% per year from 2028 through 2030. Sign me up for this star of the Nasdaq-100 3% yield club.
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There Are Only a Handful of Nasdaq-100 Stocks That Yield Over 3%. Here's My Top Pick to Buy Now.

Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel, one standout is the JPMorgan Equity Premium Income ETF (Symbol: JEPI) where we have detected an approximate $274.5 million dollar inflow -- that's a 0.6% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 799,275,000 to 804,075,000). Among the largest underlying components of JEPI, in trading today Mastercard Inc (Symbol: MA) is off about 0.5%, EOG Resources, Inc. (Symbol: EOG) is down about 0.9%, and Mondelez International Inc (Symbol: MDLZ) is lower by about 2.2%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the JEPI Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of JEPI, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, JEPI's low point in its 52 week range is $55.10 per share, with $59.90 as the 52 week high point — that compares with a last trade of $57.10. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average ».
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs.
Further JEPI Research:

JEPI, MA, EOG, MDLZ: Large Inflows Detected at ETF

United Natural Foods, Inc. UNFI is likely to witness a top-line decline when it reports fourth-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings on Sept. 8. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pegged at $7.6 billion, indicating a decrease of 1.6% from the year-ago reported number.
The consensus mark for earnings has remained unchanged over the past 30 days at 62 cents a share, which suggests a significant jump from the loss of 11 cents recorded in the year-ago period. UNFI has a trailing four-quarter surprise of 29.9%, on average.
Factors Likely to Influence UNFI’s Upcoming Results
UNFI’s fourth-quarter top line is likely to have remained pressured by the ongoing impact of conventional product-focused network optimization. Management indicated that the larger optimization actions would not be fully lapped until the first quarter of fiscal 2027. The continued unwind of short-term project-based work in the Natural segment is also likely to have weighed on fourth-quarter sales.
Nevertheless, underlying demand trends may have provided some support. On its third-quarterearnings call management specifically identified natural-product growth as a tailwind for the fourth quarter, supported by continued shopper demand for natural, organic, fresh and specialty products. Low-single-digit food inflation anticipated through fiscal year-end may also have supported sales.
UNFI’s fourth-quarter profitability is likely to have benefited from network optimization and continued productivity gains. Management cited optimization and productivity as fourth-quarter tailwinds, while technology deployments and lean practices have been improving fill rates, delivery execution and distribution-center throughput.
However, management factored incremental fuel and transportation costs into its fourth-quarter expectations. UNFI also planned incremental investments in technology, supply chain and commercial capabilities, which could have partly offset benefits from natural-product growth, optimization and productivity.
Earnings Whispers for UNFI
Our proven model doesn’t conclusively predict an earnings beat for United Natural this time. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here.
United Natural currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 and has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Stocks With the Favorable Combination
Here are some companies worth considering, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to beat on earnings this reporting cycle.
The Chefs' Warehouse, Inc. CHEF currently has an Earnings ESP of +3.02% and a Zacks Rank of 1. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its upcoming quarter’s revenues is pegged at $1.13 billion, indicating a 10.4% rise from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter. The consensus estimate for Chefs' Warehouse’s earnings is pegged at 61 cents per share, implying 22% growth from the year-ago quarter. CHEF delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 30.4%, on average.
Mondelez International, Inc. MDLZ currently has an Earnings ESP of +4.63% and a Zacks Rank of 3. The consensus estimate for the quarterly revenues is pinned at $9.97 billion, which suggests 2.4% growth from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Mondelez’s upcoming quarter’s EPS is pegged at 72 cents, which calls for a decline of 1.4% from the year-ago period figure. MDLZ delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 5.8%, on average.
The Hershey Company HSY currently has an Earnings ESP of +0.98% and a Zacks Rank #3. The consensus estimate for quarterly revenues is pegged at $3.3 billion, which indicates an increase of 2.3% from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Hershey’s upcoming quarter’s earnings per share is pegged at $2.11, which calls for 62.3% growth from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter. HSY delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 21.8%, on average.
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United Natural's Q4 Earnings Coming Up: What Should You Expect?

Mama's Creations, Inc. MAMA is likely to witness top- and bottom-line growth when it reports second-quarter fiscal 2027 earnings on Sept. 3. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pegged at $53.1 million, indicating an increase of 50.9% from the year-ago reported number.
The consensus mark for earnings has remained unchanged over the past 30 days at 5 cents a share, which suggests a jump of 66.7% from the figure reported in the year-ago period. MAMA has a trailing four-quarter surprise of 129.2%, on average.
Factors Likely to Influence MAMA’s Upcoming Results
Mama’s Creations’ performance is likely to have benefited from the ramp-up of products launched late in the first quarter. More than a dozen new items were introduced across major retailers, including Walmart, Target and Food Lion, with these placements expected to ramp up through the balance of fiscal 2027. Walmart’s new chicken items were already witnessing improving weekly velocities and had reached more than 2,000 stores by early June.
Broader retail distribution may also have supported performance. The company added products across Albertsons divisions, Weis and Fresh Market, while Costco’s everyday-item status in the Northeast continued to provide steady volumes. The addition of branded beef meatballs as an everyday item in Costco’s San Diego region may have given another incremental volume opportunity.
The Bay Shore acquisition is likely to have remained another growth contributor, supported by cross-selling opportunities across legacy and Crown 1 customers. Improving utilization at the Bay Shore facility, centralized procurement and logistics, and the completed ERP integration across all three manufacturing facilities may also have aided productivity and operating leverage.
On the downside, inflation-related input pressures and continued trade support behind new product launches could have weighed on margins. However, efficiencies from moving recently launched items toward steadier production levels may have partly mitigated these pressures.
Earnings Whispers for MAMA
Our proven model doesn’t conclusively predict an earnings beat for Mama's Creations this time. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here.
Mama's Creations currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) and has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Stocks With the Favorable Combination
Here are some companies worth considering, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to beat on earnings this reporting cycle.
The Chefs' Warehouse, Inc. CHEF currently has an Earnings ESP of +3.02% and a Zacks Rank of 1. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its upcoming quarter’s revenues is pegged at $1.13 billion, indicating a 10.4% rise from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter. The consensus estimate for Chefs' Warehouse’s earnings is pegged at 61 cents per share, implying 22% growth from the year-ago quarter. CHEF delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 30.4%, on average.
Mondelez International, Inc. MDLZ currently has an Earnings ESP of +0.39% and a Zacks Rank of 3. The consensus estimate for the quarterly revenues is pinned at $9.97 billion, which suggests 2.4% growth from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Mondelez’s upcoming quarter’s EPS is pegged at 72 cents, which declined 1.4% from the year-ago period figure. MDLZ delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 5.8%, on average.
Altria Group, Inc. MO currently has an Earnings ESP of +0.37% and a Zacks Rank #3. The consensus estimate for quarterly revenues is pegged at $5.33 billion, which indicates an increase of 1.5% from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Altria’s upcoming quarter’s earnings per share is pegged at $1.50, which calls for 3.5% growth from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter. MO delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 1.3%, on average.
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Mama's Creations Q2 Earnings Coming Up: Key Things to Note

The Campbell's Company CPB is likely to witness a top and bottom-line decline when it reports fourth-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings on Sept. 3. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pegged at $2.15 billion, indicating a decrease of 7.3% from the prior-year quarter’s reported figure.
The consensus mark for earnings has remained unchanged over the past 30 days at 40 cents a share, which implies a decline of 35.5% from the figure reported in the year-ago period. CPB has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of about 2%, on average.
The Campbell's Company Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Factors Likely to Influence CPB’s Upcoming Results
Campbell’s fiscal fourth-quarter performance is likely to have remained under pressure, reflecting continued weakness in its Snacks business. During the fiscal third-quarter earnings discussion, management highlighted weak consumption across salty snacks, amid a competitive environment and pressure on consumer spending. Although the company has been tightening assortments, sharpening price-pack architecture and improving trade efficiency, these initiatives were still in the early stages and might have limited the pace of sales recovery. Our model suggests a 4% volume decline and a 10.5% revenue decline for the Snacks segment in the fiscal fourth quarter.
Margin performance is also likely to have remained under pressure. Tariffs, input-cost inflation, logistics expenses and unfavorable volume leverage have weighed on profitability. Increased promotional support and efforts to strengthen competitiveness across key categories might also have exerted pressure on margins. Nevertheless, supply-chain productivity improvements and cost-saving initiatives are likely to have provided some offset. We expect the adjusted gross margin to contract 200 basis points to 28.6% in the fiscal fourth quarter.
However, Campbell’s Meals & Beverages segment is likely to have remained resilient, supported by durable at-home cooking trends and strength across key brands. The summer launch of Campbell’s Condensed Sauces may also have aided demand by tapping consumers’ interest in convenient at-home meal preparation and flavor exploration.
Earnings Whispers for CPB
Our proven model doesn’t conclusively predict an earnings beat for Campbell's this time. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here.
Campbell's carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) and has an Earnings ESP of -4.22%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Stocks With the Favorable Combination
Here are some companies worth considering, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to beat on earnings this reporting cycle.
The Chefs' Warehouse, Inc. CHEF currently has an Earnings ESP of +3.02% and a Zacks Rank of 1. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its upcoming quarter’s revenues is pegged at $1.13 billion, indicating a 10.4% rise from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter. The consensus estimate for Chefs' Warehouse’s earnings is pegged at 61 cents per share, implying 22% growth from the year-ago quarter. CHEF delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 30.4%, on average.
Mondelez International, Inc. MDLZ currently has an Earnings ESP of +0.39% and a Zacks Rank of 3. The consensus estimate for the quarterly revenues is pinned at $9.97 billion, which indicates a 2.4% growth from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Mondelez’s upcoming quarter’s EPS is pegged at 72 cents, which declined 1.4% from the year-ago period figure. MDLZ delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 5.8%, on average.
Altria Group, Inc. MO currently has an Earnings ESP of +0.37% and a Zacks Rank #3. The consensus estimate for quarterly revenues is pegged at $5.33 billion, which indicates an increase of 1.5% from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Altria’s upcoming quarter’s earnings per share is pegged at $1.50, which indicates a 3.5% growth from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter. MO delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 1.3%, on average.
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Campbell's Q4 Earnings on the Horizon: What Should Investors Expect?

The Hershey Company HSY paired a sizable second-quarter earnings beat with a sharp improvement in profitability as pricing, lower net commodity costs and productivity supported margins.
The harder question is durability. Volume remained under pressure from price elasticity, while freight, logistics and planned investment could absorb part of the benefit from a more favorable cost environment in the second half of 2026.
Hershey’s Q2 Beat Was Driven by Pricing and Margins
Hershey reported adjusted earnings of $1.90 per share, up 57% year over year and above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.45. Net sales increased 6.6% to $2.79 billion.
Hershey Company (The) Revenue (Quarterly)
Adjusted operating profit rose 37.3% to $563.5 million as net price realization, lower net commodity costs and productivity savings outweighed higher logistics expenses and capability investments. Part of the earnings upside also reflected the timing of non-working media spending that shifted into the second half.
HSY’s Volume Declines Expose Price Elasticity Risk
Organic, constant-currency sales rose 3.6% as roughly 12 points of pricing more than offset an 8-point volume decline. North America Confectionery volume fell about 10 points, while International volume declined about 8%.
That makes consumer response to higher prices central to the quality of future growth. Mondelez International, Inc. MDLZ, whose snack portfolio includes Cadbury Dairy Milk, Milka and Toblerone chocolate, offers a broader branded-snacking comparison. Tootsie Roll Industries, Inc. TR, with brands including Tootsie Roll, DOTS and Junior Mints, provides a more concentrated confectionery reference point.
Hershey’s Gross Margin Recovery Faces Cost Pressure
Adjusted gross margin expanded 350 basis points to 41.6% in the second quarter, showing the benefit of pricing, productivity and lower net commodity costs. The improvement helped offset unfavorable mix and higher logistics expenses.
Management now expects full-year gross margin expansion to be slightly below 400 basis points because freight and logistics costs have increased, particularly in Salty Snacks. That pressure matters because Hershey also plans a meaningful step-up in second-half brand investment while continuing capability and technology spending.
HSY’s Raised Guidance Lifts the 2026 Earnings Bar
Hershey raised its 2026 net sales growth outlook to 4.5%-5% and organic sales growth expectations to 3%-3.5%. Adjusted earnings growth is now projected at 32.5%-35%, equivalent to adjusted earnings of $8.36-$8.52 per share.
The higher ranges reflect a strong first half, but they also raise the execution requirement for the rest of the year. Management expects third-quarter earnings growth to be the strongest of 2026 as pricing net of commodity costs becomes most favorable against the prior-year period.
Hershey’s Ratings Temper the Earnings Momentum
The margin rebound can extend if pricing, productivity and lower net commodity costs continue to offset logistics and investment spending. The main counterweight is volume. A sustained recovery would look more durable if Hershey can preserve margins while reducing the degree to which sales growth depends on price realization.
HSY currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), with a Growth Score of A, VGM Score of B, Value Score of C and Momentum Score of C. The A and B grades point to favorable growth and blended style characteristics, while the C grades are more neutral. Combined with a Hold rank, that mix supports a measured view as investors assess whether the margin recovery can broaden into healthier volume trends. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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Can Hershey's Q2 Margin Rebound Extend as Pricing Pressures Volume?

The Hershey Company HSY delivered a much stronger second quarter, with earnings and margins rebounding as pricing, lower commodity costs and productivity improved profitability. Management also narrowed its 2026 sales and adjusted earnings outlook toward the upper end of prior ranges.
The trade-off is that organic growth still depended heavily on price increases while volumes fell, and the stock continues to command a premium to its sub-industry. The investment case therefore hinges on whether the recovery is strong enough to justify that premium while execution risks remain.
HSY’s Earnings Rebound Strengthens the Bull Case
Hershey posted second-quarter adjusted earnings of $1.90 per share, up 57% year over year and above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.45. Net sales increased 6.6% to $2,787.3 million, also exceeding the consensus mark of $2,649 million.
Profitability improved sharply. Adjusted gross margin expanded 350 basis points to 41.6%, while adjusted operating margin rose 450 basis points to 20.2%. Pricing, lower net commodity costs and productivity savings more than offset higher logistics expenses and unfavorable mix.
Hershey’s Growth Outlook Still Depends on Pricing
Organic, constant-currency sales rose 3.6% in the second quarter as roughly 12 points of net price realization offset an 8-point volume decline. North America Confectionery volume fell about 10 points as higher prices affected demand.
Management said elasticity increased slightly but remained somewhat better than its full-year expectations. Hershey now expects 2026 net sales growth of 4.5%-5%, organic sales growth of 3%-3.5% and adjusted earnings growth of 32.5%-35%, leaving volume response central to the outlook.
HSY Trades at a Premium to Its Confectionery Peers
HSY trades at 19.95X forward 12-month earnings compared with 16.33X for its Zacks sub-industry and 17.49X for the Zacks Consumer Staples sector. The multiple remains below its five-year median of 25.02X but above the five-year low of 18.03X.
Mondelez International, Inc. MDLZ is another global snacking company whose core business includes chocolate, with brands such as Cadbury Dairy Milk, Milka and Toblerone. Tootsie Roll Industries, Inc. TR operates solely in confectionery, with brands including Tootsie Roll, DOTS and Junior Mints. These alternatives add context to Hershey’s valuation while its volume trends remain pressured.
Hershey’s Salty Snacks Add Growth and Execution Risk
North America Salty Snacks sales increased 22.9% to $387.8 million, but the LesserEvil acquisition contributed about 22 percentage points. Organic, constant-currency sales rose just 0.6%, even as retail takeaway excluding LesserEvil increased 6.5%.
Execution remains the offset. Supply constraints affected multipacks and Dot’s pretzels, while segment income declined 5.9% to $62.6 million. The segment margin contracted 500 basis points to 16.1%, reflecting higher logistics costs, lower net price realization, increased consumer marketing and unfavorable mix.
HSY’s Ratings Point to Selective Optimism
For now, Hershey’s profile supports patience rather than a clear buy signal. HSY carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), a rating that can support holding a stock while the strongest purchase emphasis in the Zacks framework is generally reserved for Rank #1 and #2 stocks paired with favorable Style Scores. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
HSY has a VGM Score of B, Growth Score of A, Value Score of C and Momentum Score of C. The Growth Score and VGM Score are favorable grades, while the Value and Momentum readings sit below the A and B grades favored by the Style Score framework. Together, the ratings leave room for selective optimism without removing the valuation and execution questions.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report

Mondelez International, Inc.

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