JPMorgan initiates coverage on Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan stock with Overweight rating

Published 20/01/2025, 18:12
JPMorgan initiates coverage on Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan stock with Overweight rating

On Monday, JPMorgan initiated coverage of Coca-Cola (NYSE:KO) Bottlers Japan Holdings Inc (2579:JP) (OTC: CCOJF), assigning an Overweight rating and setting a price target of JPY3,350.00. The new rating comes with a positive outlook for the company's financial performance, anticipating a significant impact on earnings following price increases implemented in October 2024.

Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan Holdings, which accounts for 90% of Coca-Cola's sales in Japan, is recognized for operating its own vending machine business. This aspect of the business, while carrying high fixed costs, is also noted for providing high business leverage. The analyst believes that the price hikes introduced by the company will substantially benefit its earnings.

The company's strategy to introduce reforms aimed at reducing costs over the medium term was also highlighted. These changes are expected to enhance Coca-Cola Japan's ability to generate free cash flow, which in turn could lead to increased shareholder returns. The potential for share buybacks was specifically mentioned as a method of returning value to shareholders.

JPMorgan's initiation of coverage reflects an optimistic view of Coca-Cola Japan's future financial health. The Overweight rating suggests that the firm anticipates the stock to outperform the average return of the stocks JPMorgan covers over the next six to twelve months. The price target of JPY3,350.00 set for December 2025 indicates a confidence in the company's growth trajectory and its reform initiatives.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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