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Flowers Foods (NYSE:FLO) Stock, Chaîne d'Options

Flowers Foods

Flowers Foods Inc is an American company producing bakery food for retail and foodservice across the United States. The product portfolio includes fresh breads, buns, rolls, snack cakes, and tortillas. The company distributes to supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants. The key brands are Nature's Own, Whitewheat, Cobblestone Bread, Wonder, Dave's Killer Bread, Canyon Bakehouse, Mrs. Freshley's, and Tastykake.

Flowers Foods Inc

FLOWERY GOLD MNS OF NEV by Flowery Gold Mines Co. of Nevada

Flowery Gold Mines Co

FLOKI - United States Dollar

FLOWER ONE HOLDINGS INC by Flower One Holdings Inc.

Flower One Holdings Inc

iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF

Global X Funds Global X U.S. Cash Flow Kings 100 ETF

Flow - United States Dollar

News

Guidance

Flowers Foods Narrows FY24 Net Sales Outlook From $5.091B - $5.172B To $5.116B - $5.147B (Est $5.138B),  Adjusted EPS Forecast From $1.20 - $1.30 To $1.24 - $1.28 (Est $1.25)

Flowers Foods (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLO#NYSE">FLO</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.33 per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $0.29 by 13.79 percent. This is a 13.79 percent increase over earnings of $0.29 per share from the same period last year. The company reported quarterly sales of $1.19 billion which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $1.20 billion by 0.79 percent. This is a 0.75 percent decrease over sales of $1.20 billion the same period last year.

Earnings

Earnings Beats

Earnings Misses

Flowers Foods Q3 2024 Adj EPS $0.33 Beats $0.29 Estimate, Sales $1.19B Miss $1.20B Estimate

Flowers Foods (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLO#NYSE">FLO</a>) is set to give its latest quarterly earnings report on Friday, 2024-11-08. Here's what investors need to know before the announcement.
Analysts estimate that Flowers Foods will report an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.29. 
The market awaits Flowers Foods's announcement, with hopes high for news of surpassing estimates and providing upbeat guidance for the next quarter.
It's important for new investors to understand that guidance can be a significant driver of stock prices.
<h3>Overview of Past Earnings</h3>
In the previous earnings release, the company beat EPS by $0.03, leading to a 0.0% drop in the share price the following trading session.
Here's a look at Flowers Foods's past performance and the resulting price change:

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Quarter</th>
<th>Q2 2024</th>
<th>Q1 2024</th>
<th>Q4 2023</th>
<th>Q3 2023</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>EPS Estimate</td>
<td>0.33</td>
<td>0.41</td>
<td>0.21</td>
<td>0.28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EPS Actual</td>
<td>0.36</td>
<td>0.38</td>
<td>0.20</td>
<td>0.29</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Price Change %</td>
<td>0.0%</td>
<td>-4.0%</td>
<td>-5.0%</td>
<td>-7.000000000000001%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1730999039_0_0.png" alt="eps graph" />
<h3>Tracking Flowers Foods's Stock Performance</h3>
Shares of Flowers Foods were trading at $22.49 as of November 06. Over the last 52-week period, shares are up 7.76%. Given that these returns are generally positive, long-term shareholders are likely bullish going into this earnings release. 
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/FLO/earnings">To track all earnings releases for Flowers Foods visit their earnings calendar on our site.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

What to Expect from Flowers Foods's Earnings

During times of turbulence and uncertainty in the markets, many investors turn to dividend-yielding stocks. These are often companies that have high free cash flows and reward shareholders with a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/yield-investments"> high dividend payout</a>.
Benzinga readers can review the latest analyst takes on their favorite stocks by visiting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. Traders can sort through Benzinga's extensive database of analyst ratings, including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">by analyst accuracy</a>.
Below are the ratings of the most accurate analysts for three high-yielding stocks in the consumer staples sector.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 10.69%</li>
<li>Jefferies analyst Brian Tanquilut maintained a Hold rating and cut the price target from $19 to $9 on Oct. 23. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 63%.</li>
<li>UBS analyst Kevin Caliendo maintained a Neutral rating and raised the price target from $9 to $10 on Oct. 17. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 70%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On Oct. 24, Walgreens and Veeva Systems entered into long-term partnership to enhance patient outcomes.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent103024&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">latest WBA news.</a> </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent103024&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="902" height="832" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/30075758/image-309.png" alt="" class="wp-image-621537" style="width:606px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/30075758/image-309.png 902w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/30075758/image-309-300x277.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/30075758/image-309-768x708.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 902px) 100vw, 902px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Kraft Heinz Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KHC#NASDAQ">KHC</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 4.60%</li>
<li>Stifel analyst Matthew Smith downgraded the stock from Buy to Hold and lowered the price target from $40 to $38 on Oct. 25. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 61%.</li>
<li>Wells Fargo analyst Chris Carey maintained an Equal-Weight rating and raised the price target from $34 to $35 on Aug. 1. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 63%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On Oct. 30, Kraft Heinz posted mixed results for the third quarter.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent103024&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">latest KHC news</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent103024&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="897" height="846" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/30075948/image-310.png" alt="" class="wp-image-621547" style="width:631px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/30075948/image-310.png 897w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/30075948/image-310-300x283.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/30075948/image-310-768x724.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 897px) 100vw, 897px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Flowers Foods, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLO#NYSE">FLO</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 4.36%</li>
<li>DA Davidson analyst Brian Holland maintained a Neutral rating and raised the price target from $24 to $25 on May 17. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 65%.</li>
<li>Deutsche Bank analyst Steve Powers maintained a Hold rating and raised the price target from $22 to $23 on May 9. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 68%.</li>
<li>Recent News: Flowers Foods will report its third quarter financial results on Friday, Nov. 8.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s charting tool helped identify the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent103024&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">trend in FLO stock</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent103024&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="917" height="842" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/30080028/image-311.png" alt="" class="wp-image-621552" style="width:635px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/30080028/image-311.png 917w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/30080028/image-311-300x275.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/30080028/image-311-768x705.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 917px) 100vw, 917px" /></a></figure>
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Price Target

Pre-Market Outlook

Markets

Analyst Ratings

Trading Ideas

Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts Spotlight On 3 Risk Off Stocks Delivering High-Dividend Yields

Nu Skin Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nus#NYSE">NUS</a>) is driving its growth strategy through key initiatives that aim to revitalize its market presence and tap into high-growth areas. The company continues to prioritize thoughtful product introductions that align with shifting consumer preferences. A recent example is the launch of MYND360, a new line of clinically validated nutritional formulas tailored to support cognitive well-being.
Featuring six products, MYND360 is designed to enable users to manage stress, remain focused, enhance memory and sleep better. This innovation reflects Nu Skin&#39;s focus on the fast-growing brain health market. While these upsides, along with strength in the Rhyz business, have been working well. Nu Skin remains troubled by persistent macroeconomic obstacles.
<h2>Product Launches a Key Driver for Nu Skin</h2>
With the help of advanced technology and well-strategized product programs, Nu Skin tries to capture greater market share and maintain growth momentum. The company&#39;s long-term strategies stand on three key pillars &mdash; Products, Programs and Platforms. NUS has been successfully launching innovative beauty devices, which have become an important part of its growth.
Nu Skin&#39;s second-quarter 2024 results included positive contributions from new products such as Ageloc, Wellspa IO and RenewspA IO, along with the company&#39;s TRME weight management system. The ageLOC WellSpa iO has been a solid addition to the company&#39;s beauty device system brands, generating impressive response.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/78/81418.jpg?v=533402966" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>Nu Skin Gains From Rhyz Business</h2>
Nu Skin&#39;s Rhyz business emerges as a cornerstone of its strategic vision, highlighted by its remarkable growth trajectory and significant contribution to the company&#39;s revenue stream. Rhyz represents a cohesive ecosystem comprising consumer, technology, and manufacturing entities, all dedicated to pioneering innovation within the realms of beauty, wellness, and lifestyle. Experiencing 32.3% revenue growth in the second quarter of 2024, Rhyz accounted for 15% of total enterprise revenues and is anticipated to reach 20% to 25% by 2025.
The success of this business reflects Nu Skin&#39;s commitment to capitalizing on evolving consumer trends, particularly in influencer and affiliate marketing, which are projected to surge in the coming years. By investing in Rhyz&#39;s manufacturing capabilities, technology advancements, and creator-led indie beauty brands, Nu Skin is strategically positioning itself to drive sustained growth and value creation within the beauty, wellness, and lifestyle market.
<h2>Challenges Faced by NUS</h2>
Nu Skin&#39;s second-quarter 2024 performance was hurt by continuous macroeconomic headwinds across most regions, which weighed on consumer spending and customer acquisition, especially for premium products. The company also grappled with pressures in the direct selling industry. These headwinds, along with foreign adverse currency fluctuations, hurt Nu Skin&#39;s quarterly revenues, which tumbled 12.2% year over year to $439.1 million in the second quarter.
The operating environment for Nu Skin&#39;s core business remains challenging, primarily due to macroeconomic factors and pressures within the direct selling industry. Taking into account the company&#39;s first-half 2024 performance and rising foreign exchange headwinds, management tightened the annual guidance range for 2024 in its second-quarter earnings release.
Nu Skin now anticipates revenues in the band of $1.73-$1.81 billion for 2024, which suggests a 12-8% decline from the year-ago period&#39;s reported figure. Earlier, the metric was expected to be in the range of $1.73-$1.87 billion. Management envisions adjusted earnings per share of 75-95 cents. The projection suggests a decline from adjusted earnings of $1.85 recorded in 2023. Management had earlier envisioned an adjusted EPS of 95 cents to $1.35 for 2024.
For the third quarter of 2024, the company expects revenues between $430 million and $465 million, which suggests a decline of 14% to 7% from the year-ago quarter&#39;s reported level. The company expects adjusted EPS of 15-25 cents in the third quarter of 2024 compared with 56 cents recorded in the same period last year. Shares of NUS have plunged 42.6% in the past three months compared with the industry&#39;s decline of 10%.
<h2>Final Words on NUS</h2>
Nu Skin continues to drive growth through strategic initiatives, innovative product launches, and the expanding Rhyz business. While the company has made significant strides in capturing market opportunities, especially in the beauty and brain health sectors, it faces ongoing challenges from macroeconomic pressures and headwinds in the direct selling industry. Moving forward, the Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company&#39;s ability to balance innovation with market realities will be key to sustaining its growth trajectory.
<h2>Top 3 Staple Bets</h2>
Inter Parfums (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ipar#NASDAQ">IPAR</a>) is engaged in the manufacturing, distribution and marketing of a wide range of fragrances and related products. It currently carries a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy).
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for IPAR&#39;s current financial-year sales and earnings indicates advancements of 10.2% and 8.4%, respectively, from the prior-year figures. It has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 2.5%, on average.
Flowers Foods (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/flo#NYSE">FLO</a>), one of the largest producers of packaged bakery foods in the United States, currently carries a Zacks Rank #2. FLO has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 1.9%, on average.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Flowers Foods&#39; current financial-year sales and earnings implies growth of around 1% and 5%, respectively, from the year-ago reported numbers.
McCormick &amp; Company, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mkc#NYSE">MKC</a>) is a leading manufacturer, marketer and distributor of spices, seasonings, specialty foods and flavors. It currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for McCormick &amp; Company&#39;s current fiscal-year sales and earnings indicates advancements of 0.6% and 8.2%, respectively, from the year-ago reported figures. MKC has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 13.8%, on average.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2351561/nu-skin-navigates-growth-with-innovation-amid-industry-challenges?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|rank_focused-2351561">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Large Cap

Macro Economic Events

Mid Cap

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Management

Economics

IPAR

Nu Skin Navigates Growth With Innovation Amid Industry Challenges

Helen of Troy Limited (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/hele#NASDAQ">HELE</a>) posted second-quarter fiscal 2025 results, wherein both the top and bottom lines declined year over year. However, both metrics beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate.
During the quarter, management advanced its long-term strategies by strengthening the core business and reshaping the growth portfolio. Despite ongoing macroeconomic challenges, the company achieved early success with its &#39;Reset and Revitalize&#39; initiative, driven by stronger brand fundamentals, refined marketing and innovation efforts and expanded distribution.
<h2>HELE&#39;s Q2 in Detail</h2>
Adjusted earnings of $1.21 per share surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.08, delivering a positive surprise of around 12%. However, the bottom line declined 30.5% year over year due to reduced adjusted operating income and higher tax rates. These were somewhat countered by lower interest expenses and shares outstanding.
<div class="chart_embed">
<h3>Helen of Troy Limited Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise</h3>
<img alt="Helen of Troy Limited Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/05/1728481189.png" style="height:265px; width:576px" title="" />
Helen of Troy Limited price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | Helen of Troy Limited Quote
Consolidated net sales of $474.2 million came ahead of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $457 million. However, the metric fell 3.5% from the year-ago quarter&#39;s tally. This downtick was caused by reduced sales of hair appliances, humidifiers and air purifiers in the Beauty &amp; Wellness unit. This was partly compensated by growth in the home and insulated beverageware categories in the Home &amp; Outdoor segment. The decline in net sales was also partly mitigated by international expansion and increased sales of fans and thermometers within the Beauty &amp; Wellness category.
The consolidated gross profit margin contracted 110 basis points (bps) to 45.6% due to less favorable product and customer mixes within the Home &amp; Outdoor unit, partly made up by reduced commodity and product costs resulting from Project Pegasus initiatives.
The consolidated SG&amp;A ratio increased 140 basis points (bps) to 37.9%. The rise in such costs was due to increased spending on marketing, partly offset by reduced personnel costs.
The adjusted operating income declined 25.5% to $46.4 million, with the adjusted operating margin contracting 290 bps to 9.8%. Our model suggested an adjusted operating margin contraction of 360 bps.
</div>
<h2>HELE&#39;s Segmental Performance</h2>
Net sales in the Home &amp; Outdoor segment rose 0.8% to $241.9 million, fueled by greater insulated beverageware category sales and international sales. These were countered by weaker consumer demand, reduced replenishment orders from retail customers, and continued sluggishness in technical packs and related accessories.
Net sales in the Beauty &amp; Wellness segment declined 7.7% to $232.3 million. The decline was mainly caused by reduced sales of hair appliances stemming from softer consumer demand, changes in consumer spending habits and increased competition. Lower sales of humidifiers and air purifiers were due to lower orders from retail customers. There was also a decrease in water filtration product revenues due to the expiration of a licensing agreement. Nevertheless, these challenges were partly balanced by an increase in fan and thermometer sales. We expected Beauty &amp; Wellness net sales to decline 6.8% in the second quarter.
<h2>Other Details</h2>
Helen of Troy ended the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $20.1 million and total short and long-term debt of $713.2 million. Net cash provided by operating activities for the first six months of fiscal 2025 was $69.9 million.&nbsp; The free cash flow for the same period was $55.9 million.
<h2>What to Expect From HELE in FY25?</h2>
For fiscal 2025, HELE anticipates consolidated net sales revenues to range between $1.885 billion and $1.935 billion, indicating a decline of 6% to 3.5% year over year. This sales outlook reflects ongoing concerns about persistent inflation and continued softness in consumer spending, particularly in certain discretionary product categories. The forecast also considers anticipated challenges in operational performance at the Tennessee distribution facility, along with heightened macroeconomic uncertainty. Management also anticipates a more competitive promotional environment and increased vigilance from retailers in managing their inventory levels.
In the Home &amp; Outdoor segment, net sales growth is now expected to range between a 2.3% decline and 1.4% growth compared to the earlier view of a 3-1% decline. The revised guidance includes shipping disruption impacts in the company&#39;s Tennessee distribution facility.
For the Beauty &amp; Wellness segment, net sales are projected to decline 9-7.5% now compared with an 8-5% decline expected before.
The company still envisions fiscal 2025 adjusted EPS to range from $7.00 to $7.50, indicating a decline of 15.8% to 21.4%. It expects adjusted EBITDA in the range of $287-$297 million, suggesting a fall of 11.8-14.6%. GAAP EPS is still expected between $4.69 and $5.45 in fiscal 2025.
The free cash flow is expected in the band of $180-$200 million now, down from the earlier view of $220-$240 million.
For the third quarter of fiscal 2025, the company expects sales to decline 1-4.5%. Management anticipates adjusted EPS to decline by 3-10% in the fiscal third quarter.
Shares of this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company have risen 1% in the past three months compared to the industry&#39;s 12.1% decline.
<h2>Three Staple Stocks Worth Betting On</h2>
The Chef&#39;s Warehouse (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/chef#NASDAQ">CHEF</a>), which engages in the distribution of specialty food products, currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
CHEF has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 33.7%, on average. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for The Chef&#39;s Warehouse&#39;s current fiscal year sales and earnings indicates growth of 9.7% and 12.6%, respectively, from the year-ago reported numbers.
Flowers Foods (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/flo#NYSE">FLO</a>), a packaged bakery food company, currently carries a Zacks Rank #2. FLO has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 1.9%, on average.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Flowers Foods&#39; current financial-year sales and earnings implies growth of around 1% and 5%, respectively, from the year-ago reported numbers.
McCormick (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mkc#NYSE">MKC</a>) is a leading manufacturer, marketer and distributor of spices, seasonings, specialty foods and flavors. It currently carries a Zacks Rank of 2.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for McCormick &amp; Company&#39;s current fiscal-year earnings indicates an advancement of 5.9% from the year-ago reported figures. MKC has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 13.8%, on average.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2348407/helen-of-troy-q2-earnings-top-beauty-wellness-sales-decline-y-y?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|earnings_article-2348407">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Retail Sales

CHEF

HELE

Helen of Troy Q2 Earnings Top, Beauty & Wellness Sales Decline Y/Y

PepsiCo, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pep#NASDAQ">PEP</a>) benefits from strength in core categories, diversified portfolio, modernized supply chain, improved digital capabilities and flexible go-to-market distribution systems. In the latest revelation, the company has agreed to buy Garza Food Ventures LLC, dba Siete Foods (Siete), worth $1.2 billion.
<h2>More on PEP&#39;s Latest Transaction</h2>
Founded 10 years back, Siete offers Mexican-American food. This deal looks forward to complementing PepsiCo&#39;s portfolio by adding this attractive Mexican-American brand, apart from expanding the better-for-you offerings.
The deal will add new heritage-inspired Siete products to PepsiCo&#39;s portfolio. Siete makes authentic tortillas, salsas, seasonings, sauces, cookies and snacks, among others. Its products are available in grocery stores, club stores and organic food retailers mainly in the United States.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/29/79976.jpg?v=1932505363" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Hence, PepsiCo is quite excited to carry forward the legacy of the Garza family. Management looks to create and expand PEP&#39;s multicultural portfolio with the incredible food offerings of Siete. This will further strengthen its snacking category and enable it to reach out to more consumers with Siete&#39;s authentic food offerings.
<h2>PepsiCo&#39;s Other Notable Efforts</h2>
PepsiCo&#39;s robust strategies position it well for growth ahead. The company is focused on boosting greater efficiency by reducing costs and investing these savings back to develop scale and core capabilities. PEP expects to achieve the productivity goal through savings generated from restructuring actions. Such actions aim at further simplifying, synchronizing and automating processes.
The company also concentrates on holistic cost-management initiatives to boost productivity. It uses these savings to mitigate cost inflation and prioritize investments in its brands as well as for innovation and channel expansion. Such cost-management initiatives have been aiding PEP&#39;s margins for a while. In addition, it has been reinforcing its international footprint.
<h2>PEP&#39;s Performance</h2>
Shares of this beverage giant have gained 6.2% in the past three months compared with the industry&#39;s 9.2% growth. The company has been facing challenges in its North American operations since the start of 2024, affecting its overall sales performance.
Nevertheless, the aforesaid transaction, coupled with its robust strategic efforts, will likely boost this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company&#39;s performance.
<h2>Stocks to Consider</h2>
The Chef&#39;s Warehouse (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/chef#NASDAQ">CHEF</a>), which is a distributor of specialty food products in the United States, currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
CHEF has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 33.7%, on average.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CHEF&#39;s current financial-year sales and earnings per share indicates growth of 9.7% and 12.6%, respectively, from the year-ago numbers.
Flowers Foods (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/flo#NYSE">FLO</a>) offers baked items and has a Zacks Rank # 2 (Buy) at present. FLO has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 1.9%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Flowers Foods&#39; current financial-year sales and EPS implies growth of 1% and 5%, respectively, from the year-ago numbers.
Nomad Foods (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nomd#NYSE">NOMD</a>), which manufactures frozen foods, currently carries a Zacks Rank of 2. NOMD has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 3.1%, on average.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Nomad Foods&#39; current financial-year sales and EPS indicates growth of 4.3% and 12.6%, respectively, from the year-ago numbers.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2344987/pepsico-to-buy-siete-in-a-1-2b-deal-will-it-boost-the-stock?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|company_news_corporate_actions-2344987">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Offerings

NOMD

PepsiCo to Buy Siete in a $1.2B Deal: Will it Boost the Stock?

The Kraft Heinz Company (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/khc#NASDAQ">KHC</a>) is demonstrating resilience in a tough economic landscape thanks to its effective pricing strategies. In second-quarter 2024, KHC reported an adjusted gross profit of $2,296 million, up 2.5% year over year. The upside highlights the company&#39;s ability to maintain robust profit margins, even as inflationary pressures persist. With its adjusted gross margin expanding 210 basis points (bps) to 35.5%, the company is proving that it can navigate a challenging consumer environment while generating profits.
However, the company&#39;s growth is not without hurdles. In spite of bright spots in its three core segments &mdash; Foodservice, Emerging Markets and U.S. Retail Grow platforms &mdash; KHC is battling shifts in consumer behavior and declining demand for certain products. As we explore Kraft Heinz&#39;s strategies and challenges, it becomes clear that the company is at a critical juncture.
<h2>KHC Navigating Inflation and Boosting Margins</h2>
The ability to implement successful pricing strategies played a pivotal role in its performance. In the second quarter, the company&#39;s pricing moved up 1 percentage point, driven by higher pricing in the North America and Emerging Markets segments. Its focus on adjusting prices in response to rising input costs has paid off, as seen in its improved adjusted operating income &mdash; rising 2% to $1,380 million in the quarter. The uptick not only reflects the benefits of improved pricing but also projects KHC&#39;s proactive stance in managing costs.
KHC&#39;s strategic initiatives have also contributed to margin improvement. The introduction of its Agile@Scale program aims to enhance operational agility, resulting in a notable 190-bps increase in gross profit margin during the first half of 2024. By collaborating with technology partners and increasing research and development investments, KHC is poised to innovate and respond to evolving consumer preferences, particularly in the wellness and plant-based sectors.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/b3/79961.jpg?v=836828920" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>Expansion and Growth Opportunities for KHC</h2>
Kraft Heinz&#39;s growth strategy hinges on its three key segments. In North America, the ACCELERATE platforms are projected to achieve an annual growth rate of 4% over the next decade. Brands such as Heinz and Ore-Ida are driving this momentum through strategic investments and product innovations. Although challenges exist in Emerging Markets &mdash; most notable in China and Brazil &mdash; Kraft Heinz still managed to post high single-digit growth in the second quarter. In Global Away From Home, its plant resumed operations and the company is successfully expanding into new business areas and non-commercial channels.
The company&#39;s expansion efforts are also global. By bringing successful North American solutions to international markets, Kraft Heinz aims to capture a broader consumer base. Its commitment to innovation is evident in its product pipeline, which contributed to organic net sales. However, as consumer preferences shift, the company must remain agile to adapt to these trends.
<h2>Challenges Linger Amid Positive Developments</h2>
Despite its strategic advantages, Kraft Heinz faces several headwinds. The current consumer landscape is characterized by slow income growth and persistent inflation, factors that have dampened consumer sentiment. In fact, the company registered a 2.4% decline in organic net sales in the second quarter, thanks to lower demand for products like Lunchables.
The downturn is particularly pronounced in North America, where organic net sales fell 2.9%. Internationally, developed markets fared even worse, with a 3.9% decline. These results prompted the company to revise its expectations for organic net sales in 2024, now anticipating a decline of 2% to remain flat.
<h2>Volume Declines and Currency Risks Hurt KHC</h2>
Kraft Heinz&#39;s struggles extend beyond declining sales &mdash; the company also experienced a 3.4 percentage point decline in volume/mix in the second quarter, particularly in North America and developed markets. This trend raises concerns about the sustainability of profitability in the long run. KHC&#39;s extensive international operations expose it to risks from adverse currency fluctuations, which negatively impacted net sales by 1 percentage point in the second quarter.
<h2>Conclusion: A Critical Crossroads for Kraft Heinz</h2>
Kraft Heinz stands at a critical crossroads. While the company has demonstrated solid pricing strategies and maintained strong brand performance, significant challenges loom. The declining consumer demand and operational difficulties present hurdles that could impede future growth. As investors monitor Kraft Heinz&#39;s journey, it will be essential to watch how the company navigates these complexities and capitalizes on its strengths in the coming quarters. At present, Kraft Heinz carries a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
KHC&#39;s stock has increased 9.6% in the past three months compared with the industry&#39;s 8.8% growth.
<h2>Some Better-Ranked Staple Bets</h2>
Here, we have highlighted three top-ranked food stocks &mdash; The Chef&#39;s Warehouse (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/chef#NASDAQ">CHEF</a>), Flowers Foods (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/flo#NYSE">FLO</a>) and McCormick &amp; Company, Inc.
The Chef&#39;s Warehouse, which distributes specialty food products, currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
CHEF has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 33.7%, on average. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for The Chef&#39;s Warehouse&#39;s current fiscal year sales and earnings each indicates growth of 9.7% and 12.6%, respectively, from the year-ago reported numbers.
Flowers Foods, one of the largest producers of packaged bakery foods in the United States, currently carries a Zacks Rank #2. FLO has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 1.9%, on average. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Flowers Foods&#39; current financial-year sales and earnings implies growth of around 1% and 5%, respectively, from the year-ago reported numbers.
McCormick is a leading manufacturer, marketer and distributor of spices, seasonings, specialty foods and flavors. It currently carries a Zacks Rank of 2. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for McCormick &amp; Company&#39;s current fiscal-year sales and earnings indicates advancements of 0.2% and 5.6%, respectively, from the year-ago reported figures. MKC has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 8.3%, on average.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2344659/is-khc-s-pricing-strategy-enough-to-sustain-growth-amid-challenges?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|rank_focused-2344659">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Emerging Markets

Is KHC's Pricing Strategy Enough to Sustain Growth Amid Challenges?

McCormick &amp; Company, Incorporated (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mkc#NYSE">MKC</a>) reported solid third-quarter fiscal 2024 results, wherein the top and bottom lines beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate, and earnings increased year over year.
The company achieved a significant milestone by delivering overall global positive volume growth in the quarter, indicating improving trends across both business segments. The momentum is expected to carry into the fourth quarter. In the Consumer segment, MKC recorded solid volume growth despite facing a challenging macroeconomic environment in China. Meanwhile, in the Flavor Solutions segment, sequential volume improvements were realized, driven by strong growth in Branded Foodservice.
Management continues to bolster its position across major markets and core categories by focusing on growth levers such as brand marketing, product and packaging innovation, category management and proprietary technology. The company expects its cost-saving initiatives to help fund future investments and drive operating margin expansion. The year-to-date results, combined with strategic growth plans, reinforce confidence in achieving the mid-to-high range of projected sales growth for 2024.
<div class="chart_embed">
<h3>McCormick &amp; Company, Incorporated Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise 
<img alt="McCormick &amp; Company, Incorporated Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/ae/1727790166.png" style="height:265px; width:576px" title="" /></h3>
McCormick &amp; Company, Incorporated price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | McCormick &amp; Company, Incorporated Quote
</div>
<h2>MKC&#39;s Quarterly Performance: Key Metrics and Insights</h2>
Adjusted earnings of 83 cents per share increased from 65 cents reported in the year-ago quarter. The metric came above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 68 cents per share, representing a surprise of 22.1%. The year-over-year upside can be attributed to greater operating profit, the timing of a specific tax benefit and increased income from unconsolidated operations, fueled by robust performance from McCormick de Mexico, the company&#39;s largest joint venture.
This global leader in flavor generated sales of $1,679.8 million, flat year over year, including minimum impacts from currency movements. Impacts from the company&#39;s strategic decision to divest its canning business were offset by a 1% increase in volume backed by the Consumer segment, somewhat negated by pricing. The top line exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1,664 million.
McCormick&#39;s gross profit margin expanded 170 basis points. The upside can be attributed to improved mix and cost savings from the Comprehensive Continuous Improvement&nbsp;program.
The adjusted operating income came in at $288 million, up 15% year over year, reflecting gross margin expansion and reduced SG&amp;A expenses.
<h2>Decoding MKC&#39;s Segmental Performance</h2>
Consumer: Sales remained flat year over year at $937.4 million, with a negligible impact on currency movements. Sales were hurt by a 1% decline from pricing actions, offset by 1% volume growth. Volume growth in the Americas and the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (&quot;EMEA&quot;) regions was partly negated by declines in the Asia-Pacific region (APAC). Sales remained flat year over year in the Americas while moving up 3% in the EMEA region. Segment sales dipped 1% in the APAC.
Flavor Solutions: Sales in the segment inched down 1% to $742.4 million. On a constant-currency basis, sales were flat year over year as a 1% rise in pricing was countered by the company&#39;s strategic move to sell off its canning business. Flavor Solutions&#39; sales in the Americas grew 2%. Flavor Solutions&#39; sales in the EMEA fell by 8%. Sales in the APAC market fell 1% year over year.
<h2>MKC&#39;s Financial Health Snapshot</h2>
McCormick exited the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $200.8 million, long-term debt of $3,343.1 million and total shareholders&#39; equity of $5,451 million. In the nine months ended Aug. 31, 2024, net cash provided by operating activities was $463.2 million.
<h2>What to Expect From MKC in 2024?</h2>
For fiscal 2024, McCormick is focused on strengthening its volume trends and prioritizing investments to fuel profits. The company&#39;s CCI and Global Operating Effectiveness programs are driving growth investments and operating margin expansion. Management anticipates currency movements to have a minimal impact on 2024 results.
For 2024, management expects sales to range between a 1% decline and 1% growth, including minimal currency impacts. The company anticipates witnessing a favorable impact of pricing actions undertaken in the prior year. Volume trends are likely to improve due to solid brands and targeted investments. However, its decision to discontinue the low-margin business and sell the canning business is likely to put some pressure on volume during 2024.
Management expects adjusted operating income to grow 4-6%, including minimal currency impacts. This is likely to be driven by gross margin expansion, somewhat offset by a major rise in brand marketing investments.
Management envisions 2024 adjusted EPS in the band of $2.85-$2.90, which suggests a 5-7% increase from the year-ago period, including minimal currency impacts. On a GAAP basis, McCormick projects 2024 earnings in the range of $2.81- $2.86 per share compared with the year-ago period figure of $2.52.
This Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock has rallied 17.2% in the past three months compared with the industry&#39;s growth of 8.8%.
<h2>Other Top Staple Stocks</h2>
Here, we have highlighted three other top-ranked consumer staple stocks &mdash; The Chef&#39;s Warehouse (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/chef#NASDAQ">CHEF</a>), Flowers Foods (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/flo#NYSE">FLO</a>) and Kimberly-Clark Corporation&nbsp;(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/kmb#NYSE">KMB</a>).
The Chef&#39;s Warehouse, which engages in the distribution of specialty food products, currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
CHEF has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 33.7%, on average. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for The Chef&#39;s Warehouse&#39;s current fiscal year sales and earnings indicates growth of 9.7% and 12.6%, respectively, from the year-ago reported numbers.
Flowers Foods, one of the largest producers of packaged bakery foods in the United States, currently carries a Zacks Rank #2. FLO has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 1.9%, on average.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Flowers Foods&#39; current financial-year sales and earnings implies growth of around 1% and 5%, respectively, from the year-ago reported numbers.
Kimberly-Clark is a personal care and consumer tissue product company that currently carries a Zacks Rank of 2.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Kimberly-Clark&#39;s current fiscal-year earnings indicates an advancement of 10.4% from the year-ago reported figure. KMB has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 12.6%, on average.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2344136/mccormick-q3-earnings-top-estimates-mkc-volumes-improve-y-y?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|earnings_article-2344136">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

McCormick Q3 Earnings Top Estimates, MKC Volumes Improve Y/Y

Wall Street edged slightly higher on Friday, with major equity indices showing modest gains <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets">at midday in New York.</a>
Both the S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq 100 are on track to record their best week since October 2023, driven by stronger-than-expected economic data that eased earlier concerns of a recession. If they close in the green, they will secure the seventh straight positive session. 
On Friday, the University of Michigan&#8217;s Consumer Sentiment Index for August exceeded expectations, adding to a series of positive data, including lower-than-anticipated jobless claims and strong retail sales growth reported the day before.
Gold was the standout performer, climbing 1.5% to reach a record high of $2,500 per ounce, as traders positioned themselves in anticipation of imminent Federal Reserve rate cuts.
This surge in gold prices boosted gold mining stocks, with the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GDX#NYSE">GDX</a>) advancing over 2%.
Oil prices, however, dipped 1.6% amid reduced geopolitical tensions as Gaza ceasefire negotiations resumed in Doha, Qatar. In a joint statement, the United States, Qatar, and Egypt announced that Washington had presented a new proposal that has the potential to rapidly close gaps and lead to a swift agreement.
Meanwhile, Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) rose 1.6%, reaching $58,368.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Friday&#8217;s Performance In Major US Indices, ETFs</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Major Indices </td>
<td>Price</td>
<td>1-day %chg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>2,142.44</td>
<td>0.2%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>5,552.80</td>
<td>0.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>40,619.51</td>
<td>0.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>19,507.26</td>
<td>0.1%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Updated at 12:30 p.m. ET</figcaption></figure>
According to <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent081624&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Benzinga Pro</a> data:
<ul>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>)&nbsp;was 0.1% higher to $553.81.</li>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>)&nbsp;also rose 0.1% to $406.32.</li>
<li>The tech-heavy Invesco QQQ Trust Series (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) edged 0.2% up to $475.31.</li>
<li>The iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) ticked 0.2% higher to $212.42.</li>
<li>The Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLC#NYSE">XLC</a>), The Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLF#NYSE">XLF</a>), and The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLY#NYSE">XLY</a>) outperformed, up by 0.5%. The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLRE#NYSE">XLRE</a>) lagged, down by 0.5%.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Friday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h3>
<ul>
<li>H&amp;R Block Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HRB#NYSE">HRB</a>) rallied 15% following stronger-than-expected results last quarter.</li>
<li>Other stocks moving on earnings were Amcor plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMCR#NYSE">AMCR</a>), down 5%, Applied Materials Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMAT#NASDAQ">AMAT</a>), down 1.5%, Coherent Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COHR#NYSE">COHR</a>), up 8%, Flower Foods Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLO#NYSE">FLO</a>), down 0.3%, and Globant S.A. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLOB#NYSE">GLOB</a>), up 4.9%. </li>
<li>Repligen Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RGEN#NASDAQ">RGEN</a>) dropped 13% after making an acquisition offer to Maravai LifeSciences Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRVI#NASDAQ">MRVI</a>), a company specializing in vaccine capping reagents with a market value of $2.2 billion. Following the offer, Maravai&#8217;s shares surged by 23%.</li>
</ul>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/08/40420968/walmart-stock-one-of-the-most-compelling-retail-investments-7-analysts-highlight-ma">Walmart Stock &#8216;One Of The Most Compelling&#8217; Retail Investments: 7 Analysts Highlight Market Share Gains</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Equities

Broad U.S. Equity ETFs

Commodities

Econ #s

Tech

ETFs

$BTC

AMAT

AMCR

COHR

SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust

Market Vectors ETF Trust Market Vectors Gold Miners

GLOB

MRVI

RGEN

XLRE

Select Sector SPDR-Consumer Discretionary

Wall Street Gains Ground As Consumer Sentiment Improves; Gold Hits Record Highs, Boosting Mining Stocks: What's Driving Markets Friday?

Flowers Foods Maintains FY24 Financial Outlook For Sales Of $5.091B - $5.172B (Est $5.157B), Adjusted EPS Of $1.20 - $1.30 (Est $1.22)

Flowers Foods (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLO#NYSE">FLO</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.36 per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $0.33 by 9.09 percent. This is a 9.09 percent increase over earnings of $0.33 per share from the same period last year. The company reported quarterly sales of $1.225 billion which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $1.24 billion by 1.53 percent. This is a 0.24 percent decrease over sales of $1.23 billion the same period last year.

Flowers Foods Q2 2024 Adj EPS $0.36 Beats $0.33 Estimate, Sales $1.225B Miss $1.24B Estimate

Wall Street appears on track to build on gain as expectations concerning a continued moderation in inflation and soft-landing gain ground. The major index futures point to a modestly higher open on Friday as the S&amp;P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite indices look to extend their six-day winning run. Vice President Kamala Harris, who is running for the presidency, is due to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40411555/ahead-of-kamala-harris-first-economic-policy-speech-in-north-carolina-campaign-provides-sneak-peek-f">formally announce her economic policy at the North Carolina rally </a>scheduled for Friday.
The market could draw cues from her speech, as traders assess the implications of the policy proposals for the various sectors and stocks. A sneak peek provided by the Democratic Party&#8217;s nominee already suggests an accent on residential construction. A consumer sentiment reading and a speech by a Federal Reserve official could also impact sentiment.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Futures</td>
<td>Performance (+/-)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>+0.16%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>+0.02%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow</td>
<td>+0.05%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>R2K</td>
<td>-0.41%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> In premarket trading on Friday,&nbsp;the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) slipped 0.07% to $552.71, and the&nbsp;Invesco QQQ ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) rose 0.02% to $474.51, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/lxquj26b2sag" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro data</a>.</figcaption></figure>
Cues From Last Session: 
A set of benign economic data accelerated the market rally on Thursday, with the S&amp;P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite indices settling higher for a sixth straight session. Retail sales jumped more than expected in July with the upside commendable even after giving effect the two-tenths of a percentage point downward revision to the June number. The upside was fueled by auto sales. Retail sales growth that excludes autos also was a healthy 0.4%.
Also allaying growth concerns were an unexpected decline in weekly jobless claims and a not-so-steep contraction as expected in manufacturing activity in the New York and Philadelphia regions. 
The major averages gap opened higher and saw a steady rise until the afternoon before going about a consolidation move for the rest of the session. The Nasdaq Composite and the Dow Industrials hit fresh two-week highs, while the S&amp;P 500 ended at its highest level since July 23.
All but two of the 11 S&amp;P sectors advanced, led by consumer discretionary and IT stocks, while defensive utility and real estate stocks moved to the downside.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Index</td>
<td>Performance (+/)</td>
<td>Value</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq Composite</td>
<td>+2.34%</td>
<td>17,594.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500 Index</td>
<td>+1.61%</td>
<td>5,543.22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Industrials</td>
<td>+1.39%</td>
<td>40,563.06</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>+2.45%</td>
<td>2,135.47</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Insights From Analysts:
The market rally may have further legs, according to Fund Strat Head Of Research Tom Lee. &#8220;While bottoms are a &#8216;process,&#8217; a good July Core CPI tilts &#8216;risk-on&#8217; at least until Jackson Hole (8/22-8/24),&#8221; said the strategist.
Fund manager Louis Navellier is also positive about the market trajectory, stating that &#8220;Market momentum is alive and&nbsp;well.&#8221; 
Data reinforces the resilience of consumers and the labor market, the fund manager said. &#8220;While this may give the&nbsp;Fed pause on&nbsp;how quickly to trim rates,&nbsp;it doesn&#8217;t appear that elevated rates are restraining the&nbsp;economy as much as some conclude,&nbsp;and leaves dry powder for the&nbsp;potential slowdown that&nbsp;continues to be pushed&nbsp;forward quarter after&nbsp;quarter,&#8221; he added.
Upcoming Economic Data:
<ul>
<li>The Commerce Department is scheduled to release the housing start and building permits report for July at 8:30 a.m. EDT. Economists, on average, expect housing starts to come in at a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 1.34 million units for July, down only slightly from June&#8217;s rate of 1.35 million units. Building permits &#8211; a measure of future starts may have declined from 1.45 million units in June to 1.42 million units in July. </li>
<li>The University of Michigan is set to release the results of its preliminary consumer sentiment survey at 10 a.m. EDT. The consensus estimate calls for the headline consumer sentiment to come in at 66.6 for August, slightly up from 66.4 in July. The forward inflation expectations readings of the report may also evince some interest.</li>
<li>Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee is scheduled to speak at 1:25 p.m. EDT.</li>
</ul>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-trade-futures">How To Trade Futures</a>
Stocks In Focus:
<ul>
<li>Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>) fell nearly 3% in premarket trading following the chip equipment maker&#8217;s quarterly results, and H&amp;R Block, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HRB#NYSE">HRB</a>) climbed over 9.5% on earnings.</li>
<li>Flowers Foods, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLO#NYSE">FLO</a>) rose nearly 6% ahead of its earnings.</li>
</ul>
Commodities, Bonds And Global Equity Markets:
Crude oil futures fell sharply after Thursday&#8217;s surge in the wake of the U.S. retail sales data, and gold futures rose modestly and are tantalizingly close to $2,500 an ounce. The 10-year Treasury yield eased 3.2 points to 3.894%. Bitcoin USD (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) rose modestly and traded past the $58.5 level.
Asian stocks rallied across the board, encouraged by Wall Street&#8217;s scintillating rally. Japan&#8217;s Nikkei 225 soared 3.64% as the yen weakened against the dollar amid the strong U.S. data. European stocks also advanced in early trading on Friday.
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Stocks Photo by Jirapong Manustrong on Shutterstock

General

US Stocks Strive To Keep Winning Run Alive As Kamala Harris Prepares To Unveil Economic Policy: Analyst Says 'Risk-On' Sentiment Will Persist Until This Event

The CNN Money Fear and Greed index showed further improvement in the overall market sentiment, but the index remained in the &#8220;Fear&#8221; zone on Thursday.
U.S. stocks settled higher on Thursday, with the S&amp;P 500 recording gains for the sixth consecutive session. The index is now down around 2% from its record after gaining more than 3% this week.
On the economic data front, U.S. retail sales gained 1% month-over-month in July versus a revised 0.2% decline in June and higher than market estimates of a 0.3% gain. U.S. initial jobless claims declined by 7,000 to 227,000 in the week ending August 10, versus market estimates of 235,000. The NY Empire State Manufacturing Index rose to -4.7 in August, notching the highest level in six months.
Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>) reported downbeat sales for its fiscal first quarter. Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) announced strong second-quarter results and raised full-year guidance. Shares of Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>) rose 6.8% during Thursday&#8217;s session following better-than-expected quarterly earnings.
Most sectors on the S&amp;P 500 closed on a positive note, with consumer discretionary, information technology, and materials stocks recording the biggest gains on Thursday. However, real estate and utilities stocks bucked the overall market trend, closing the session lower.
The Dow Jones closed higher by around 555 points to 40,563.06 on Thursday. The S&amp;P 500 rose 1.61% to 5,543.22, while the Nasdaq Composite gained 2.34% at 17,594.50 during Thursday's session.
Investors are awaiting earnings results from Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSGE#NYSE">MSGE</a>), CI&amp;T Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CINT#NYSE">CINT</a>), and Flowers Foods, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLO#NYSE">FLO</a>) today.
What is CNN Business Fear &amp; Greed Index?
At a current reading of 32.9, the index remained in the &#8220;Fear&#8221; zone on Thursday, versus a prior reading of 27.6.
The Fear &amp; Greed Index is a measure of the current market sentiment. It is based on the premise that higher fear exerts pressure on stock prices, while higher greed has the opposite effect. The index is calculated based on seven equal-weighted indicators. The index ranges from 0 to 100, where 0 represents maximum fear and 100 signals maximum greediness.
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BABA

CINT

CSCO

MSGE

Dow Jumps Over 550 Points Following Retail Sales Data: Greed Index Remains In 'Fear' Zone

With U.S. stock futures trading higher this morning on Friday, some of the stocks that may grab investor focus today are as follows:
<ul>
<li>Wall Street expects Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSGE#NYSE">MSGE</a>) to report a quarterly loss at $2.27 per share on revenue of $271.32 million before the opening bell, according to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>. Madison Square Garden shares gained 3.5% to $40.00 in after-hours trading.</li>
<li>Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMAT#NASDAQ">AMAT</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/08/40406069/applied-materials-q3-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-beat-demand-being-driven-by-race-for-ai-leadership-a">reported better-than-expected results</a> for its third quarter. The company said it anticipates fourth-quarter revenue of $6.53 billion, plus or minus $400 million, versus estimates of $6.91 billion. The company expects fourth-quarter adjusted earnings to be between $2 and $2.36 per share, versus estimates of $2.14 per share. Applied Materials shares fell 3.1% to $205.30 in the after-hours trading session.</li>
<li>Analysts are expecting CI&amp;T Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CINT#NYSE">CINT</a>) to post quarterly earnings at 6 cents per share on revenue of $99.03 million. The company will release earnings before the markets open. CI&amp;T shares rose 10.4% to $7.45 in after-hours trading.</li>
</ul>
Check out our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/">premarket coverage here </a>
<ul>
<li>H&amp;R Block, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HRB#NYSE">HRB</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/08/40407075/h-r-block-q4-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-beat-strong-guidance-1-5b-buyback-stock-up-9">reported better-than-expected</a> fourth-quarter financial results and increased its quarterly dividend by 17%. H&amp;R Block said it expects full-year 2025 revenue to be in the range of $3.69 billion to $3.75 billion versus estimates of $3.575 billion, per Benzinga Pro. The company sees full-year adjusted earnings in the range of $5.15 to $5.35 per share versus estimates of $4.30 per share. H&amp;R Block shares jumped 10% to $63.23 in the after-hours trading session.</li>
<li>Analysts expect Flowers Foods, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLO#NYSE">FLO</a>) to post quarterly earnings at 33 cents per share on revenue of $1.24 billion before the opening bell. Flowers Foods shares gained 1.5% to $22.99 in after-hours trading.</li>
</ul>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/08/40394036/jim-cramer-recommends-buying-clorox-ceo-has-done-remarkable-job">Jim Cramer Recommends Buying Clorox: &#8216;CEO Has Done Remarkable Job&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Applied Materials, H&R Block And 3 Stocks To Watch Heading Into Friday

Dividends

Flowers Foods Announces 4.3% Increase In Quarterly Dividend To $0.24 Per Share; Payable June 20, 2024, To Shareholders Of Record On June 6, 2024; Annualized Dividend Rate Raised To $0.96 Per Share From $0.92 Per Share Last Year

DA Davidson analyst Brian Holland maintains Flowers Foods (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLO#NYSE">FLO</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $24 to $25.

DA Davidson Maintains Neutral on Flowers Foods, Raises Price Target to $25

Flowers Foods Sees FY24 Adj. EPS $1.20-$1.30 Vs $1.24 Est.; Sales $5.091B-$5.172B Vs $5.16B est.

Flowers Foods (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLO#NYSE">FLO</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.38 per share which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $0.41 by 7.32 percent. The company reported quarterly sales of $1.576 billion which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $1.579 billion by 0.18 percent. This is a 2.74 percent increase over sales of $1.534 billion the same period last year.

Flowers Foods Q1 2024 Adj EPS $0.38 Misses $0.41 Estimate, Sales $1.576B Miss $1.579B Estimate

Deutsche Bank analyst Steve Powers maintains Flowers Foods (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLO#NYSE">FLO</a>) with a Hold and raises the price target from $22 to $23.

Deutsche Bank Maintains Hold on Flowers Foods, Raises Price Target to $23

Flowers Foods gives mixed Q3 results, narrows outlook

Flowers Foods ( ($FLO) ) has released its Q3 earnings. Here is a breakdown of the information Flowers Foods presented to its investors. Flowers Foo...

Flowers Foods Reports Strong Q3 Earnings Amid Sales Decline

Flowers Foods, Inc. (FLO) Q3 2024 Earnings Call Transcript

In a report released today, Bill Chappell from Truist Financial maintained a Hold rating on Flowers Foods (FLO – Research Report). The company's sh...

Truist Financial Keeps Their Hold Rating on Flowers Foods (FLO)

D.A. Davidson analyst Brian Holland maintained a Hold rating on Flowers Foods (FLO – Research Report) today and set a price target of $25.00. The c...

D.A. Davidson Remains a Hold on Flowers Foods (FLO)

B&G Foods gets insider-buying bump

CPI read: Food prices ran below the overall inflation rate in October

DA Davidson lowered the firm's price target on Flowers Foods (FLO) to $24 from $25 and keeps a Neutral rating on the shares after its Q3 results. T...

Flowers Foods price target lowered to $24 from $25 at DA Davidson

Analysts have been eager to weigh in on the Consumer Goods sector with new ratings on Flowers Foods (FLO – Research Report) and Nestlé SA (NSRGF – ...

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