PepsiCo stock rises as Wall Street goes defensive, with soda-tax talk back in view
PepsiCo shares rose 0.8% to $142.50 Tuesday afternoon, outperforming a weaker market as consumer staples advanced. The World Health Organization renewed calls for higher taxes on sugary drinks, raising policy risk for soda makers. PepsiCo remains about 12% below its 52-week high. Investors await the Feb. 3 earnings report for updates on 2026 targets and pricing strategy.