Cadbury Schweppes
(NYSE:CSG) shares moved up this week after activist investor Nelson
Peltz reported raised his stake in the company from 3.47% to 4.5%,
according to a report put out by the company. No official confirmation
could be made because Peltz owns less than 5% of the company and is not
required to report to the SEC. The move comes amid a split-up that is
just now showing signs of success with the company raising its
full-year guidance.
Cadbury announced that it would be beating
its growth goal of four to six percent; however, analysts were quick to
point out that the gains come against a relatively weak quarter last
year. Moreover, there are concerns that the company's revenues will be
hurt by the currency exchange rate. Remember, the dollar continues to
extremely low compared to the euro, which is hurting exports in many
European firms.
Cadbury's Americas Beverages unit, which is
being spun off, also reported modest year-over-year progress in
underlying operating proft. The future of this unit was recently sealed
after the firm came under pressure from billionaire investor Nelson
Peltz to separate the candy and beverages arms. This split up should
unlock substantial value for investors who have dealt with a stagnant
share price for some time now.
In the end, this will likely be a
great move for the troubled Cadbury, but many feel that it is already
reflected in the share price. Investors were encouraged with Peltz
increased his holdings, but the stock has since returned to previous
levels. Regardless, this is definitely a stock
worth watching!
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