Smithfield Foods, Inc. (SFD)

Smithfield Foods, Inc. (SFD) reported increased quarterly revenue and profits in its first quarterly results since going public in January 2025. Earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter were $0.58, surpassing analysts' consensus estimates of $0.51. The company raised its annual profit forecast, leading to a share increase. Analysts have given SFD a consensus recommendation of "Moderate Buy," with an average 12-month price target of $28.31. The board also announced a $0.25 quarterly dividend, annualized at $1.00, resulting in a 4.7% yield. Insiders reportedly bought approximately $42.6 million of stock in the 90 days leading up to November 21, 2025. Despite overall positive results, operating profit in its largest packaged meats segment fell 5.7% in the quarter, and profits in the fresh pork division dropped about 64%.

Demand for Smithfield Foods' products appears to be robust and relatively steady, with anticipated growth in annual sales and operating profit. Strong quarterly results in late 2025 reflected a steady market for protein-rich staples. The global demand for pork is expected to remain high, presenting export opportunities. However, commodity prices for hogs are cyclical and can impact profitability, and high feed costs can affect the supply chain. Bad weather can also impact feed availability and the ability to sell products.

Smithfield Foods, Inc. is a Chinese-owned pork producer and food-processing company headquartered in Smithfield, Virginia, operating within the Consumer Staples sector. It is the world's largest pig and pork producer with an extensive product portfolio marketed under well-known brands. In 2019, Smithfield introduced Pure Farmland, a plant-based brand.

Smithfield Foods has a significant global presence, owning over 500 farms in the U.S. and contracting with approximately 2,000 independent farms. Outside the United States, Smithfield Foods has facilities and operations in Mexico, Poland, Romania, Germany, Slovakia, and the United Kingdom. The company primarily operates in the U.S. and Europe.

In the past year, Smithfield Foods has continued its commitment to sustainability and community involvement through initiatives like the "Smithfield® Commonwealth Clash." However, Smithfield Foods has also faced ongoing scrutiny regarding its animal welfare practices and environmental impact, including litigation concerning its sow housing practices. The company remains under pressure to improve labor conditions and reduce its environmental footprint.

As of March 24, 2025, Smithfield Foods had approximately 309.3 million shares of common stock. While the company is majority-owned by WH Group, based in Hong Kong, recent insider buying activity indicates that insiders own 0.84% of the stock.