Hershey

At the Barclays conference Hershey announced a two-stage plan: restore profitability in 2026–2027 and pursue balanced growth from 2028 onward. Second-quarter organic sales and EPS beat expectations, yet the full-year outlook remains conservative due to consumer pressure, higher fuel costs and intense competition. Growth will be supported by innovation, seasonal and cultural activations, expansion of salty and functional snacks and an international focus; lower cocoa prices, improved marketing returns and productivity gains are expected to further help in 2027. Hershey also emphasized share buybacks and its dividend and plans increased media spending to support product launches and seasonal campaigns. » More on de.investing.com

Hershey reported Q2 net sales up 6.6% year over year and adjusted EPS up 57% despite cocoa costs rising more than 120% over the past six months, reflecting notable pricing power. Management is rolling out its largest-ever Halloween lineup, "Hersheyween," to capture early seasonal demand for chocolate, gummies and sour candy. The stock yields 3.2%, trades below its 52-week high and is relatively flat year to date, making the company appealing for income-focused investors even though it was not included in the Motley Fool Stock Advisor top 10 list. » More on finance.yahoo.com

Bernstein expects Hershey and Mondelez to expand their successful product collaborations rather than pursue a full merger. Attractive areas for cooperation include China and Western Europe, where Mondelez has a stronger distribution network and Hershey could grow market share via licensing agreements or joint ventures. An acquisition remains theoretically possible but is unlikely because the Hershey Trust controls voting rights and a deal would cause short-term earnings dilution; Bernstein’s models show, however, that long-term cost synergies could boost EPS. » More on de.investing.com