A 6% Pop Can't Fix PepsiCo's Bigger Problems

  • Despite a Q2 earnings beat, PepsiCo's core issues—weak volume trends, dividend strain, and overreliance on pricing—remain unresolved and have worsened. Total return for PepsiCo over the last three years is negative, even with dividends, underperforming peers like Coca-Cola and Monster Beverage. A $1.9 billion impairment charge and high debt levels highlight ongoing concerns about PepsiCo's growth strategy and rich valuation.