UBS Adjusts PepsiCo Price Target to $145 From $159, Maintains Buy Rating

PepsiCo and Monster Beverage have sued India's food regulator over a ban on 'energy drink' labels, citing commercial and financial impacts. The regulator ordered the change due to health concerns, but the companies argue they were not consulted. The energy drink market in India is projected to reach $1.6 billion by 2028, with annual retail sales growing at 12.6%.

Carlsberg Group and PepsiCo opened a $344M non-alcoholic beverage plant in Kazakhstan, with a capacity of 1B liters/year and 230 jobs. The project is a strategic partnership to expand market reach and implement advanced standards.

Evercore ISI reduced its price target for PepsiCo from $150 to $135, maintaining an 'In Line' rating. The change reflects adjustments in valuation and earnings per share revisions. PepsiCo's stock was trading at $128.69 in pre-market, up 0.15%.

PepsiCo plans to raise prices on some chips by low- to mid-single-digit percentages to match inflation, following earlier price cuts. The company faces challenges from rising input costs and weak demand. Shares have fallen 10% this year and dipped 1% in morning trading. Activist investor Elliott Management holds a $4 billion stake and has pushed for changes.

PepsiCo plans to invest $1 billion in Colombia over five years, expanding production and distribution. The investment aims to support local farmers and retailers, aligning with Colombia's economic growth strategy, Mision Crecer. Details on job creation and regional projects were not specified.

J.P. Morgan downgraded PepsiCo to Neutral, cutting its price target by 19% to $138. The analyst cited struggles in North America, particularly the snack business, and lowered EPS estimates for 2027 and 2028. PepsiCo shares fell over 1%. The company reports Q3 earnings on Oct. 8.