Why These 15 Consumer Defensive Stocks Are Surging in 2025

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6. Philip Morris International Inc (NYSE:PM)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders In Q4 2024: 102

Philip Morris International Inc (NYSE:PM) is an American multinational tobacco company that sells products in over 180 countries, specializing in cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and nicotine pouches under brands like Marlboro, L&M, IQOS, and ZYN.

The stock is up significantly so far in 2025 due to its exceptional first-quarter results announced on April 23, showing a 24.6% increase in reported diluted earnings per share to $1.72 and a 5.8% increase in net revenues to $9.3 billion.

PMI has had remarkable growth in its smoke-free business segment, which now accounts for 42% of total net revenues and 44% of total gross profit, with shipment volumes increasing by 14.4%.

The company has raised its full-year adjusted diluted EPS forecast for 2025 to a range of $7.01 to $7.14, representing a substantial increase from $4.52 in 2024.

The consensus price target of $163 implies 3.85% downside.

PM stock is up 41.81% year-to-date.

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