The Hershey Company is set to announce its fiscal fourth-quarter earnings, expected to be $1.40 per share on a diluted basis, down 48% from the year-ago quarter. For the full year, analysts predict EPS of $6, a 36% drop from the previous fiscal year but a 15.7% increase for fiscal 2026.

HSY stock has underperformed the S&P 500 Index but outperformed the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund. Challenges in its seasonal business, margin compression from higher cocoa prices, and brand investments have led to underperformance. Despite moderate volume declines, the company remains cautiously optimistic about growth.

After reporting Q3 results, HSY shares closed down over 2%, with adjusted EPS exceeding expectations at $1.30. Revenue was $3.2 billion, surpassing forecasts. Analysts have a cautious consensus on HSY stock, with a “Hold” rating overall and an average price target of $194.41, suggesting a potential upside of 2.8%.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: What to Expect From Hershey’s Next Quarterly Earnings Report