Coca-Cola (KO) stock moved less than 1% in pre-market trading despite reporting better-than-expected second quarter results. The beverage king reported adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.87, beating analysts’ estimates of $0.83 and growing 4% compared to the Q2FY24 figure. Similarly, comparable net revenue rose 2.5% year-over-year to $12.62 billion, surpassing the consensus estimate of $12.54 billion.
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Looking forward, the company now expects adjusted EPS for FY25 to grow about 3% from the $2.88 per share reported in FY24. Coca-Cola demonstrates strong pricing power, backed by its solid brand name and ability to navigate macro challenges.
Here’s How Coca-Cola Performed in Q2
Coca-Cola attributed the solid performance to strong demand for its sodas in Europe, offsetting weaker volumes in other regions. However, global unit case volume fell 1% year-over-year, with only Europe, the Middle East & Africa reporting a 3% increase compared to Q2FY24. Notably, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar jumped 14%, driven by growth across all geographies, while sparkling soft drinks, Trademark Coca-Cola, sparkling flavors, and juices all witnessed declines.
Coca-Cola is facing a tough macroeconomic backdrop, marred by consistently high inflation and recessionary pressures. The company’s products saw a 6% increase in prices in Q2, up from a 5% increase in Q1.
Moreover, soda-based drinks are facing rising regulatory risks from President Donald Trump’s “Make America Healthy Again” campaign. The company noted that it plans to introduce a drink made with U.S. cane sugar, following Trump’s announcement that Coke will be made with real cane sugar in the U.S.
Is KO Stock a Buy, Hold, or Sell?
On TipRanks, KO stock has a Strong Buy consensus rating based on 15 Buys and one Hold rating. Also, the average Coca-Cola price target of $79.36 implies 13.3% upside potential from current levels. Year-to-date, KO stock has gained 14.2%.
Please note that these ratings were issued before the Q2 print and are subject to change once analysts revise their recommendations.
