New York, Jan 24, 2026, 17:07 EST — Market closed.
PepsiCo (PEP.O) shares edged up 0.12% Friday, finishing at $144.58 after a volatile week for U.S. stocks. (Barron’s)
Wall Street kicks back into action Monday, heading into a key Federal Reserve week. The Fed’s upcoming policy meeting takes place Jan. 27-28, drawing attention from rate-sensitive sectors like consumer staples — those firms selling everyday essentials like food and beverages. (Federal Reserve)
PepsiCo isn’t far behind with its own catalyst. In a December update, the company said it plans to release its fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 results on Feb. 3. It also shared a preliminary 2026 outlook, highlighting productivity savings and “affordability” moves in North America snacks. “Today, we are announcing our plans and initiatives that aim to accelerate organic revenue growth,” CEO Ramon Laguarta said then. Activist investor Elliott, which has been in talks with PepsiCo, threw its support behind the plan. Partner Marc Steinberg commented, “We believe the plan announced today … will drive greater revenue and profit growth.” (PepsiCo)
On Friday, the S&P 500 finished almost unchanged, with the Dow dipping slightly. PepsiCo’s stock nudged up, joining other major consumer brands in modest gains. Coca-Cola climbed 1.41%, and Mondelez added 1.42%, according to MarketWatch data. (MarketWatch)
PepsiCo dropped 1.59% Thursday, closing at $144.40 and underperforming several competitors despite gains in the S&P 500 and Dow. Trading volume hit around 7.9 million shares, just above its 50-day average, MarketWatch data shows. (MarketWatch)
PepsiCo remains focused on boosting growth in North America while cutting costs following discussions with Elliott. The company confirmed it is examining its North American supply chain and aims to slash expenses more aggressively. (Reuters)
Investors are looking beyond just one quarter this time. Traders want to see if price hikes are holding up without pushing customers to buy cheaper options, and if sales volumes in snacks and drinks are steadying. PepsiCo’s “organic” revenue figure excludes currency fluctuations and deal impacts, while their “core” profit numbers leave out some one-time items — both aim to reveal true demand and earnings strength.
Risks cut both ways. Leaning on heavy promotions may shore up shelf space but will eat into margins. Meanwhile, a sudden jump in input costs can slam earnings before prices have a chance to adjust. If the Fed turns out more hawkish than anticipated, even defensive stocks could slide as discount rates climb.
Wednesday is the next big volatility trigger, with the Fed set to announce its policy decision at 2:00 p.m. ET. The press conference will follow at 2:30 p.m. ET. (Federal Reserve)
