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Richard A. Dierker, the President and CEO of Church & Dwight Co. Inc. (NYSE:CHD), made significant stock purchases earlier this week. On May 13 and May 14, Dierker acquired a total of 13,334 shares of common stock in a series of transactions. The purchase prices ranged from $92.80 to $94.7761 per share, amounting to a total investment of approximately $1,252,214.
Dierker’s transactions were executed in multiple tranches, with the first on May 13 involving 5,300 shares at $94.7761 per share, and another 2,650 shares at $94.4398 per share. The following day, he purchased an additional 5,384 shares at $92.80 per share. Following these transactions, Dierker’s direct ownership in Church & Dwight has increased, reflecting his confidence in the company’s prospects.
In other recent news, Church & Dwight Co. Inc. has made significant moves in the market with its acquisition of the hand sanitizer brand Touchland for $700 million, with a potential additional payment of up to $180 million based on 2025 sales targets. This acquisition is expected to close in the second quarter and is anticipated to be neutral to the company’s 2025 earnings per share due to transition and acquisition-related expenses. Analysts from Goldman Sachs have maintained a Buy rating with a $108 target, expressing optimism about the acquisition’s potential for top-line growth, despite current challenges in the consumer environment. Jefferies has raised its price target to $106, maintaining a Hold rating, and sees the acquisition as a strategic fit that aligns with Church & Dwight’s focus on premium and younger demographics.
TD Cowen, however, downgraded its rating from Buy to Hold, lowering the price target to $100, citing concerns over the company’s revised 2025 guidance and slower growth compared to peers. The acquisition of Touchland, which has reported sales of $130 million and an EBITDA margin of 42%, is expected to positively impact Church & Dwight’s gross margin, although the long-term growth potential in the hand sanitizer category remains a concern. Church & Dwight’s management has expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, viewing Touchland as a strong addition to its portfolio, appealing to younger consumers with high loyalty and repeat purchase rates. The company plans to leverage its capabilities to expand Touchland’s reach in international markets, building on recent expansions into Canada and the Middle East. Despite some concerns, Church & Dwight’s strategic moves and strong balance sheet are aimed at maintaining its growth trajectory and exploring further accretive acquisitions.
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