J.P. Morgan analyst Kenneth Goldman has maintained their neutral stance on HSY stock, giving a Hold rating today.
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Kenneth Goldman has given his Hold rating due to a combination of factors surrounding The Hershey Company’s recent performance and future guidance. The company’s EPS guidance for 2025 came in significantly below consensus expectations, which usually would be viewed negatively. However, the stock showed resilience, trading higher in pre-market trading, potentially due to investors waiting for the guidance to be issued before making purchasing decisions.
Despite the lower than expected EPS guidance, Hershey’s recent financial results showed strength, with adjusted EPS for 4Q24 beating consensus estimates and solid organic sales growth. Segments such as North America Confectionery and Salty Snacks performed well, with operating margins exceeding consensus. However, the guidance for FY25 indicates a modest top-line growth and a decline in gross margin, leading to a balanced outlook on the company’s future prospects and justifying the Hold rating.
In another report released today, Barclays also maintained a Hold rating on the stock with a $170.00 price target.