Hershey

Hershey increased its quarterly dividend to $1.452 starting February 2026 after holding it flat at $1.37 for five quarters, signaling renewed confidence in forward cash flow. The company suffered a sharp earnings decline in 2025—net income fell to $883 million from $2.22 billion—due to record cocoa costs and tariff expenses, but Q1 and Q2 2026 results and guidance point to a recovery. Full-year 2026 guidance targets adjusted EPS of $8.36–$8.52, implying 32–35% growth vs. 2025, while management expects cocoa deflation and noted margin pressure in salty snacks as key drivers. Investors should watch cocoa prices, snacking margins, and the next dividend declaration to judge whether dividend growth is sustainable. » Plus sur finance.yahoo.com

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. » Plus sur 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. » Plus sur finance.yahoo.com