PepsiCoPEPDON'T BUYSep 28, 2026Stock price when the opinion was issued
As of Oct 02, 2026. Market Open.
The question was on whether the gap in value between PepsiCo and Coca-Cola could narrow. PepsiCo covers foods as well as drinks. However people are eating fewer snack foods and there is less space on the shelves for them. Coca-Cola is doing better since it is just drinks and they have executed well over the past several years. The gap between the two would be hard to narrow and could get worse.
He sold in 2024 when the valuation started looking a bit full. When pandemic inflation hit, "elasticity" was low so that consumers kept buying despite higher prices. Cumulative effect of inflation caught up to them. Not tempted, given slowing macro economy and inflation genie not fully back in the bottle.
Operates in a cola duopoly with KO, good job creating shareholder value. He likes market leaders like these that have little to no direct competition, so this name fits that bill. That being said, it's a lot harder these days with consumer brands to establish a brand and build a moat. Today he could launch a cola company online, using Instagram and FB, with very little cost and effort, and with luck it could even go viral. Brands will have a tough time.
Very strong, well-established brand. PEP got into snacks, which are up against healthier lifestyles. He owns FEVR, take a look at that one.
Is down 10% this year. The business is tough right now.