The success of any potential deal is contingent on the approval of the Hershey Trust, which controls approximately 80% of the voting power. While Jefferies does not have insight into the Trust's stance, they maintain an Underperform rating on Hershey due to structural risks and a more positive outlook on Mondelez (NASDAQ:MDLZ), citing its diverse sales, growth in emerging markets, and broad brand support initiatives. The outcome of these discussions remains uncertain, and the final decision will greatly depend on the Hershey Trust's agreement to any proposed terms.
Notably, InvestingPro data reveals Hershey has maintained dividend payments for 54 consecutive years and currently offers a 3.14% dividend yield, though 10 analysts have recently revised their earnings expectations downward for the upcoming period. Notably, InvestingPro data reveals Hershey has maintained dividend payments for 54 consecutive years and currently offers a 3.14% dividend yield, though 10 analysts have recently revised their earnings expectations downward for the upcoming period.
The success of any potential deal is contingent on the approval of the Hershey Trust, which controls approximately 80% of the voting power. While Jefferies does not have insight into the Trust's stance, they maintain an Underperform rating on Hershey due to structural risks and a more positive outlook on Mondelez, citing its diverse sales, growth in emerging markets, and broad brand support initiatives.
The outcome of these discussions remains uncertain, and the final decision will greatly depend on the Hershey Trust's agreement to any proposed terms. Notably, InvestingPro data reveals Hershey has maintained dividend payments for 54 consecutive years and currently offers a 3.14% dividend yield, though 10 analysts have recently revised their earnings expectations downward for the upcoming period.
The success of any potential deal is contingent on the approval of the Hershey Trust, which controls approximately 80% of the voting power. While Jefferies does not have insight into the Trust's stance, they maintain an Underperform rating on Hershey due to structural risks and a more positive outlook on Mondelez, citing its diverse sales, growth in emerging markets, and broad brand support initiatives. The outcome of these discussions remains uncertain, and the final decision will greatly depend on the Hershey Trust's agreement to any proposed terms.
In other recent news, Hershey has been maintaining steady financial performance despite challenges such as rising cocoa costs and market share losses. The company continues to uphold strong fundamentals, with a 44.5% gross profit margin and regular dividend payments for over half a century.
TD (TSX:TD) Cowen and JPMorgan (NYSE:JPM) have maintained their hold and neutral stances on Hershey, with price targets of $190 and $171 respectively. Analysts also highlighted potential benefits of a speculated acquisition of Hershey by Mondelez, which could strengthen the latter's position in the snack market.
Furthermore, Hershey has been diversifying its product portfolio, recently acquiring Sour Strips, a sour candy brand known for its bold flavors and strong social media presence.
The company projects a steady top-line growth of 2% to 4% for 2025 and expects cost savings of around $180 million from productivity and AAA programs. Piper Sandler, maintaining a neutral stance, has adjusted its price target on Hershey to $168, reflecting revised expectations for the company's performance through 2025 and 2026.
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