Earnings Release and Q&A Session - Kimberly-Clark will release its Q4 and full-year 2024 results on January 28, 2025, at approximately 6:30 a.m. EST [1] - A live Q&A session with analysts will follow at 8:00 a.m. EST on the same day [1] - The earnings release, supplemental materials, and Q&A session can be accessed through the company's Investor Relations website [2] - A replay of the webcast will be available on the same website after the event [2] Company Overview - Kimberly-Clark operates in over 175 countries and is known for its trusted brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, Kotex, Cottonelle, Poise, Depend, Andrex, Pull-Ups, GoodNites, Intimus, Plenitud, Sweety, Softex, Viva, and WypAll [3] - The company's brands hold No 1 or No 2 market share positions in approximately 70 countries [3] - Kimberly-Clark focuses on sustainable practices to support a healthy planet, build strong communities, and ensure long-term business success [3] - The company has been recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere for five consecutive years and as one of Fortune's Most Innovative Companies in America in 2024 [3] - Kimberly-Clark has a 150-year history of innovation [3]

Core Insights - The article promotes Ian's Insider Corner, an investment group that provides access to stock initiation reports, trade alerts, and macro analysis [1] - Ian Bezek, a former hedge fund analyst, specializes in high-quality compounders and growth stocks, particularly in Latin American markets [2] Group 1 - Ian's Insider Corner offers features such as a Weekend Digest, active chat room, and direct access to Ian for investment insights [1] - The group focuses on providing updates on new investment ideas and current holdings [1] Group 2 - Ian Bezek has extensive experience in conducting on-the-ground research in Latin America, specifically in Mexico, Colombia, and Chile [2] - The investment strategy emphasizes finding growth stocks at reasonable prices in both developed and emerging markets [2]

Core Insights - The campaign by Poise® featuring Katherine Heigl aims to normalize bladder leaks among women, addressing the stigma and encouraging open conversations about pelvic health [2][5][6] - The campaign highlights that at least 50% of women experience bladder leaks, particularly during perimenopause, menopause, and after childbirth, yet many remain unaware of the impact on pelvic health [1][5] Company Overview - Poise® is recognized as the number one brand for light bladder leak protection, offering a range of products including liners and pads designed for comfort and discretion [2][5] - Kimberly-Clark, the parent company of Poise®, operates in over 175 countries and is known for its commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, being recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies [7][8] Campaign Details - The campaign features humorous and relatable scenarios, such as a brunch scene where Heigl discusses bladder leaks in a light-hearted manner, aiming to educate and empower women [3][4] - The campaign will be promoted across various channels, including TV, social media, and digital platforms, to reach a wide audience [6]

Core Viewpoint - The case of Newman v. Moore highlights the unconstitutional suspension of Federal Circuit Judge Pauline Newman, with support from six retired federal judges and various legal organizations, emphasizing the need to uphold judicial independence and due process [1][3][4]. Group 1: Judicial Suspension Details - Judge Newman was suspended indefinitely from hearing new cases in March 2023 without due process, violating the Judicial Conduct and Disability Act [2]. - The suspension was initially for one year in September 2023 and was extended for another year in September 2024, marking an unprecedented action in American judicial history [2]. - The complete suspension of an Article III judge from all judicial functions is deemed unconstitutional [2]. Group 2: Legal Arguments and Support - The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia dismissed Judge Newman's constitutional claims, arguing that judicial review was precluded, which contradicts the presumption that all U.S. citizens have the right to have their federal constitutional claims heard [3]. - The retired judges' brief asserts that the U.S. Senate alone has the authority to remove Article III judges, and the indefinite suspension of Judge Newman usurps that authority, challenging the independence of all federal judges [3]. - Organizations such as the Bar Association of the District of Columbia, The Buckeye Institute, and Manhattan Institute have also filed amicus briefs in support of Judge Newman, reinforcing the defense of due process and judicial independence [3]. Group 3: Statements from NCLA - NCLA emphasizes the significance of the amicus brief from retired federal judges, noting the constitutional peril created by the Federal Circuit's actions and urging the D.C. Circuit to protect judicial independence [4]. - The rarity of retired federal judges submitting amicus briefs underscores the importance of their concerns and arguments, which should be carefully considered by the D.C. Circuit and the broader legal community [4].

Core Insights - Kimberly-Clark Corporation is transitioning from a decentralized business model to a balanced matrix organization to enhance top-line growth and productivity [3]. Group 1: Organizational Changes - The company is implementing organizational changes aimed at leveraging scale in supply chain, innovation, marketing, and commercial execution [3]. - These changes are expected to yield payback starting in 2024, with a focus on achieving balanced and sustainable growth [3]. Group 2: Future Outlook - The initiatives are anticipated to contribute to profit growth in 2025, although some benefits may take longer to materialize [3].

Core Viewpoint - Kimberly-Clark Corporation is facing challenges in a dynamic consumer and retail environment, impacting its performance and margins, as reflected in its guidance for Q4 2024 [1][9]. Financial Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Q4 earnings per share has decreased by 2 cents to $1.49, while estimates for the current year and full year have increased by a cent each to $7.27 and $7.55, respectively, indicating ongoing favorable prospects despite short-term hurdles [3]. - Kimberly-Clark's Q3 2024 revenues were $4,952 million, a decline of 4% year over year, attributed to retail inventory reductions, hurricane-related disruptions, and lower demand in certain international markets [6]. Market Challenges - The shifting consumer and retail environment presents headwinds, particularly in key international markets such as parts of Asia, Latin America, and North America's professional segment, with economic pressures reducing purchase frequency and declining birth rates weakening demand for products like diapers [5]. - The company's exit from low-margin private label products has contributed to a 1.3-point decline in quarterly revenue growth, with an anticipated further revenue headwind of around 2% in 2025 due to the phasing out of additional private-label diaper contracts in North America [7]. Strategic Initiatives - Kimberly-Clark has increased its advertising spend by 60 basis points in Q3 and plans to maintain or increase this investment in Q4 to sustain demand amid heightened price sensitivity, although this may limit margin expansion [8]. - The Powering Care Strategy focuses on accelerating innovation, optimizing margin structure, and restructuring for growth, aiming to solidify the company's position as a category leader globally [11]. - The company is targeting $3 billion in cost savings over the next several years, achieving $130 million in savings in Q3 and aiming for a gross margin of 40% by 2030 [12]. Future Outlook - Kimberly-Clark anticipates that its Q4 top-line performance will closely mirror that of Q3, reflecting a challenging consumer landscape and potential retail inventory reductions [9]. - Despite short-term challenges, the long-term strategic initiatives provide a foundation for optimism regarding sustained growth and profitability [13].

Core Insights - Kimberly-Clark's Q3 2024 earnings exceeded expectations, with adjusted earnings of $1.83 per share, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.69, reflecting a 5% year-over-year increase [3][4] - However, total sales of $4,952 million fell short of the consensus estimate of $5,063 million, marking a 4% decline compared to the previous year [3][4] - The company has revised its organic sales outlook downward, now projecting growth between 3% and 4%, down from a previously anticipated mid-single-digit growth rate [11] Financial Performance - Adjusted gross margin expanded by 90 basis points to 36.7%, attributed to productivity gains [7] - Organic sales increased by 1%, driven by a 1% rise in pricing, particularly in hyperinflationary economies like Argentina [5][6] - In North America, organic sales fell by 1%, while Developing and Emerging markets saw an 8% increase in organic sales [6] Segment Performance - Personal Care segment sales were $2,635 million, down 2% year over year, but organic sales rose by 3% [8] - Consumer Tissue segment sales dropped 2% to $1,539 million, with organic sales down 1% due to inventory reductions [9] - K-C Professional segment sales fell 10% to $767 million, impacted by unfavorable currency rates and divestitures [10] Future Outlook - Adjusted operating profit is projected to grow at a mid-to-high teens percentage rate on a constant currency basis in 2024 [12] - The consensus estimate for Kimberly-Clark has shifted downward by 7.63% in the past month, indicating a negative trend in estimates [13][14] - The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), suggesting an expectation of in-line returns in the coming months [16]

Core Insights - Kimberly-Clark Corporation (KMB) is currently trading at a forward 12-month price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 2.19, which is significantly higher than the industry average of 1.29, indicating high growth expectations from the market [1] - The company's shares have declined by 7.6% over the past three months, underperforming the industry and broader market indices [2] - Despite the high valuation and recent stock performance concerns, Kimberly-Clark's Powering Care strategy and growth initiatives may still attract investors [3] Financial Performance - Kimberly-Clark reported third-quarter 2024 revenues of $4,952 million, a decline of 4% year over year, attributed to retail inventory reductions, hurricane-related disruptions, and lower demand in international markets [5] - For 2024, organic net sales growth is projected to be between 3% and 4%, down from a previously anticipated mid-single-digit growth rate, with currency headwinds expected to negatively impact net sales by nearly 400 basis points [6] - The company anticipates minimal growth in operating profit for the fourth quarter, with increased investments in operations and brands offset by productivity savings and a decrease in Other Income and Expenses [9] Market Challenges - Kimberly-Clark faces challenges from a dynamic consumer and retail environment, with softened demand in key international markets and reduced purchase frequency in Southeast Asia and Latin America due to economic pressures [4] - The current economic landscape has led to increased promotional strategies, with a 60 basis point rise in advertising spend in the third quarter, which may limit margin expansion and profitability [7] - The company expects fourth-quarter performance to closely mirror the third quarter, reflecting ongoing challenges in consumer demand and retail inventory reductions [8] Growth Strategy - The Powering Care Strategy is central to Kimberly-Clark's transformation, focusing on accelerated growth, operational efficiency, and enhanced organizational alignment [10] - Innovation is a priority, with the recent launch of Skin Essentials being well-received, aimed at driving premiumization and catering to evolving consumer demands [11] - The company has set a productivity target of $3 billion in savings over the next few years, achieving $130 million in the third quarter of 2024, which has contributed to margin expansion [13] Long-term Outlook - Kimberly-Clark aims for a 40% gross margin target by 2030, with current gross margin at 37% year to date [14] - Despite elevated valuation and recent underperformance, the company's strong brand image and strategic initiatives suggest potential for long-term success [15]

Group 1 - Kimberly-Clark Corporation has elected Joseph Romanelli to its board of directors, increasing the board size from 12 to 13 members [1] - Joe Romanelli brings extensive global leadership experience and expertise in healthcare, which aligns with Kimberly-Clark's Powering Care strategy [2] - Romanelli has been president of Human Health International for Merck & Co. since 2022, overseeing operations in over 75 markets and leading a team of 14,000 [2] Group 2 - Kimberly-Clark operates in more than 175 countries and offers a portfolio of trusted brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, and Scott, which hold leading market positions in approximately 70 countries [3] - The company emphasizes sustainable practices and has been recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for five consecutive years [3]

Group 1 - U by Kotex® has launched a limited-edition line of jeans called MaxiMalism Jeans, designed to feature a transparent back pocket for carrying menstrual pads openly, aiming to empower women and reduce stigma around periods [1][2] - A recent study indicates that 83% of girls feel the need to hide their period products, while 76% of school-age students associate periods with negative connotations [1][2] - The MaxiMalism Jeans are part of U by Kotex®'s initiative to change perceptions about menstruation, with the first batch released on October 22 already sold out, and additional batches scheduled for release on October 24 and 27 [2] Group 2 - Kimberly-Clark, the parent company of U by Kotex®, operates in over 175 countries and is recognized for its commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, holding leading market positions in approximately 70 countries [3] - The company has been acknowledged as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for six consecutive years and was named one of Fortune's Most Innovative Companies in America in 2024 [3]