Tuesday, December 11, 2007
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!

Related Companies
The Coca-Cola Company (KO)
The Hershey Company (HSY)
PepsiCo Inc. (PEP)

12/11/2007 5:03:05 PM UTC  #    Comments [0]  |  Trackback
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