Latest news with #IQOS


Globe and Mail
a day ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Philip Morris' Valuation Looks Overstretched: Time to Hit Pause?
Philip Morris International Inc. PM has impressed investors with its bold pivot toward reduced-risk products (RRPs), led by the success of its IQOS platform. This transformation has positioned the company as a future-ready tobacco leader. However, after a strong rally in the first half of 2025, concerns around its valuation are growing. Philip Morris currently trades at a forward P/E ratio of 22.89x — significantly above both its five-year average of 15.34x and the broader tobacco industry's current ratio of 15.36. This premium valuation reflects strong bullish sentiment around its smoke-free future, but it also suggests much of that optimism is already priced in. With a Value Score of C, the stock appears less attractive from a pure valuation standpoint. While Philip Morris' long-term vision remains promising, near-term risks persist. Revenue growth is steady but not spectacular, and the company faces currency headwinds, regulatory tightening and geopolitical uncertainty in key international markets. Its heavy reinvestment in next-generation products may strain cash flow and limit dividend growth in the near term. That said, Philip Morris isn't necessarily a 'sell.' The company's fundamentals remain solid, and its leadership in the RRP space is undeniable. However, at current levels, it may be wise for investors to wait for a more favorable entry point. Other Tobacco Stocks to Watch While You Wait on PM If Philip Morris feels overvalued, investors may find better value in Altria Group, Inc. MO and British American Tobacco p.l.c. BTI — both trading at attractive valuations in 2025. Altria, with a P/E ratio of 10.76x, continues to demonstrate resilience amid declining cigarette volumes, thanks to strong pricing power and a growing focus on smoke-free products. Altria's 'Optimize & Accelerate' initiative is designed to modernize operations and accelerate its transition to a smoke-free future, backed by solid dividends and reliable cash flow. British American Tobacco, trading at 10.33x, is also evolving. With its goal to build a smokeless world, British American Tobacco is investing heavily in reduced-risk products. It aims to reach 50 million users of non-combustible products by 2030 and derive 50% of revenues from them by 2035. PM's Price Performance & Estimates Shares of Philip Morris have rallied 50.1% year to date compared with the industry 's growth of 37.6%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PM's 2025 earnings implies year-over-year growth of 13.7%, whereas its 2026 earnings estimate suggests a year-over-year uptick of 11.7%. The estimates for 2025 and 2026 have remained unchanged in the past 30 days. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research PM stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Zacks' Research Chief Picks Stock Most Likely to "At Least Double" Our experts have revealed their Top 5 recommendations with money-doubling potential – and Director of Research Sheraz Mian believes one is superior to the others. Of course, all our picks aren't winners but this one could far surpass earlier recommendations like Hims & Hers Health, which shot up +209%. See Our Top Stock to Double (Plus 4 Runners Up) >> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Altria Group, Inc. (MO): Free Stock Analysis Report Philip Morris International Inc. (PM): Free Stock Analysis Report British American Tobacco p.l.c. (BTI): Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (


Daily Express
4 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Philip Morris International Launches New IQOS ILUMA i in Malaysia to Accelerate the Achievement of a Smoke -Free Future
Published on: Wednesday, June 25, 2025 Published on: Wed, Jun 25, 2025 Text Size: Naeem and MJ presenting the new IQOS ILUMA i. Kuala Lumpur: Philip Morris Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PMM), an affiliate of Philip Morris International (PMI), today announced the launch of IQOS ILUMA i, the latest and most innovative addition to its growing portfolio of smoke-free products for adults who would otherwise continue to smoke or use nicotine products. Today, this range of smoke-free alternatives to cigarettes includes multiple generations of IQOS, the No.1 tobacco-heating system1 . 'As the global smoke-free champion, we strive to deliver science-based, smoke-free alternatives to all adult smokers who would otherwise continue smoking. We leverage science, world leading brands, and commercial capabilities to provide better alternatives to our consumers. This innovation provides an opportunity for us to renew our smoke-free vision and our ambition for over two-thirds of our total net revenue to come from smokefree products by 2030,' said Naeem Shahab Khan, Managing Director of Philip Morris Malaysia & Singapore. 'Two years ago in Malaysia, IQOS ILUMA disrupted the category by introducing induction-heating technology that heats tobacco from within, with no tobacco residue and no need to clean the device. Today, we take IQOS to new heights, with the launch of IQOS ILUMA i – the latest innovation in our smoke-free portfolio, offering a range of advanced features for a clean, seamless, and more flexible experience.' Over the past 10 years, PMI's portfolio of scientifically backed smoke-free alternatives, led by IQOS, has created a positive impact on millions of adult smokers and those around them by accelerating an end to cigarettes. Advertisement Within 10 years, IQOS became the number one heated tobacco brand and accelerated the decline of cigarettes in many countries. In Japan, for example, more than one-third of adult smokers are using IQOS2 since heated tobacco was launched. Based on the PMI's 2025 first-quarter results, the smoke-free business accounts for 42% of the total net revenues. Today, there are 95 markets where PMI's smoke-free product are available. 'IQOS ILUMA i is our most innovative offering to date and the new flagship in our portfolio of scientifically substantiated, heat-not-burn smoke-free systems,' said Oggie Kapetanovic, President Heat-Not-Burn Platforms at PMI. We are proud that consumer feedback continuously fuels our innovation, and IQOS ILUMA i is a testament to that.' PMI's studies to date have found that IQOS generates no combustion and no smoke. Like previous IQOS devices, IQOS ILUMA i emits, on average, 95% lower levels of harmful chemicals compared with cigarettes. Importantly, this does not necessarily equal a 95% reduction in risk and IQOS ILUMA i is no risk-free5,6. Naeem added: 'We have been investing heavily in research and development to provide adults who smoke with better alternatives to cigarettes based on cutting-edge science. But for change to be effectively enacted, government and society at large must play their part. It is important that others – like government authorities and regulators – embrace the opportunity offered by innovation and science to benefit the world.' New features of IQOS ILUMA i The IQOS ILUMA i series offers three devices in Malaysia: IQOS ILUMA i PRIME, IQOS ILUMA i and IQOS ILUMA i ONE. All IQOS ILUMA i devices bring a range of adaptable new features. It already delivers an experience that is clean and seamless, thanks to PMI's bladeless SMARCORE INDUCTION SYSTEMTM in a variety of designs to meet the diverse preferences of consumers. The new touch screen on the device's holder allows users to see experience-relevant information quickly and easily. To personalize the experience, IQOS ILUMA i introduces a new Pause Mode. By swiping up or down on the touch screen, users can pause and resume their experience with the device where they left off7 . The new IQOS ILUMA i additionally includes smart features like FlexBattery that help prolong the lifespan of the holder's battery8. Like the previous series of IQOS ILUMA, these devices use induction-heating technology in a range of innovative designs to allow adult users to select the device that best suits their needs and preferences. IQOS ILUMA i devices are available on the IQOS website and at authorized stores throughout Malaysia, including East Malaysia, as well as selected convenience stores and petrol marts. Adult nicotine users looking for more information on features and usage, visit * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia


Daily News Egypt
5 days ago
- Business
- Daily News Egypt
Philip Morris Misr launches ‘IQOS ILUMA i' in Egypt, marking technological leap in smoke-free innovation
Philip Morris Misr has announced the launch of IQOS ILUMA i in Egypt, the latest and most advanced addition to its portfolio of smoke-free products. As the newest generation of IQOS devices, IQOS ILUMA i underscores PMI's continued commitment to scientific innovation and to offering better alternatives for adult smokers who would otherwise continue using cigarettes or nicotine products. This launch reinforces PMI's global ambition of creating a smoke-free future, leveraging cutting-edge science and technology to deliver nicotine without combustion. 'We leverage science, world-leading brands, and commercial capabilities to provide better alternatives to our consumers,' said Ali Nevzat Karaman, Managing Director of Philip Morris Egypt & Levant. 'Following the introduction of IQOS ILUMA in Egypt in 2023, we are now taking the IQOS experience to new heights. IQOS ILUMA i is our most innovative device to date—our flagship product in the portfolio of scientifically substantiated, heat-not-burn smoke-free systems.' The IQOS ILUMA i represents a breakthrough in tobacco heating technology. It is equipped with the SMARTCORE INDUCTION SYSTEM™, which heats tobacco from within—eliminating combustion and providing a cleaner, residue-free experience. The system also removes the need for regular cleaning, making the device more convenient for users. Like its predecessors, the IQOS ILUMA i emits, on average, 95% lower levels of harmful chemicals compared to conventional cigarettes. The device introduces several smart features, including an interactive touchscreen that displays usage information, a Pause Mode allowing users to pause their session for up to 8 minutes, and FlexPuff functionality that enables personalised puff control. In addition, FlexBattery technology improves battery efficiency and extends its lifespan—helping to reduce electronic waste. IQOS ILUMA i is compatible with existing TEREA tobacco sticks, ensuring a seamless and consistent experience for users without the need to switch to new stick formats or systems. 'People smoke for various reasons—not just for nicotine, but also for the taste, sensory experience, and ritual,' said Mircea Zetel Serafim, Director of Smoke-Free Products at Philip Morris Egypt & Levant. 'No single product can satisfy all adult smokers' preferences. That's why we need a diverse portfolio of alternatives that evolve alongside consumer needs and technological advancements.' He noted that IQOS ILUMA i brings together over a decade of research and consumer insights, representing PMI's most sophisticated device to date. Philip Morris International (PMI) continues to advocate for a smoke-free future, rooted in the belief that innovation can transform the tobacco industry. The company sees the development and adoption of scientifically substantiated smoke-free alternatives as a realistic path to eliminating cigarettes. 'We believe traditional cigarettes will be relegated to museums within the next 10 to 15 years,' said Karaman. 'This belief is what drives our ongoing research and development. We aim to offer appealing smoke-free options that encourage every adult smoker to make the switch.' Since 2008, PMI has invested over $14bn in developing, scientifically validating, and commercialising smoke-free products for adults who would otherwise continue to smoke—with the ultimate goal of phasing out the sale of cigarettes entirely. As of 31 December 2024, PMI's smoke-free products were available in 95 markets, with an estimated 38.6 million adult users worldwide. These products accounted for 42% of PMI's total net revenues in the first quarter of 2025.


Tahya Masr
5 days ago
- Business
- Tahya Masr
Philip Morris Misr launches IQOS ILUMA i offering a technological leap in the world of smoke-free products
Philip Morris Misr has announced the launch of IQOS ILUMA i in Egypt, the latest and most innovative addition to its portfolio of smoke-free products. As the newest generation of IQOS devices, IQOS ILUMA i reflects PMI's ongoing commitment to scientific innovation and the development of better alternatives for adult smokers who would otherwise continue to smoke or use nicotine products. This launch reinforces PMI's global vision for a smoke-free future, leveraging science and advanced technology to deliver nicotine without combustion. 'We leverage science, world leading brands and commercial capabilities to provide better alternatives to our consumers' said Ali Nevzat Karaman, Managing Director of Philip Morris Egypt & Levant. 'IQOS ILUMA, launched in Egypt in 2023. Today, we take IQOS to new heights. IQOS ILUMA i is our most innovative offering to date and the new flagship in our portfolio of scientifically substantiated, heat-not-burn smoke-free systems.' The new IQOS ILUMA i device is considered a breakthrough in tobacco heating technology. It features the innovative SMARTCORE INDUCTION SYSTEM™, which heats tobacco internally without combustion, giving users a cleaner, residue-free experience without the need for constant cleaning. Like previous IQOS devices, it emits, on average, 95% lower levels of harmful chemicals compared with cigarettes(1) (2) The device features a smart design, including an interactive touchscreen for easy viewing of usage information, as well as a Pause Mode feature that allows users to pause their experience for up to 8 minutes and seamlessly resume it flexibly without wasting energy. The FlexPuff feature also allows users to customize their usage, while FlexBattery technology helps extend battery life and reduce electronic waste. The IQOS ILUMA i device continues to use TEREA tobacco sticks, just like previous IQOS ILUMA devices, ensuring a consistent and integrated user experience without the need to change sticks or adopt new systems, enhancing ease of use and providing a seamless transition between different versions. For his part, Mircea Zetel Serafim, Director of Smoke-Free Products at Philip Morris Egypt & Levant, said: 'People smoke for different reasons, not just nicotine, but also taste, sensory experience, and ritual. No one smoke-free product will meet all adult smokers' preferences; a portfolio of alternatives is required. Our Heat-not-Burn product category has a range of product types that will evolve to meet changing consumer preferences while taking advantage of developments in technology and science. The drive for continuous innovation has guided everything we've done for last 10 years. With IQOS Iluma I we're bringing everything we've learned so far in the shape of our most advanced device yet' Philip Morris International is committed to a smoke-free future, driven by the belief that innovation can meaningfully transform the tobacco industry. The company sees smoke-free alternatives as a pragmatic way to accelerate an end to cigarettes. 'We believe that traditional cigarettes will belong to museums within the next 10 to 15 years and this vision is the true driving force behind our continued journey of research and development. In the same context, the company offers a diverse range of smoke-free products, aiming to provide an appealing option for every adult smoker to help them make the definitive switch away from cigarettes' said Ali Nevzat Karaman Since 2008, PMI has invested over $14 billion to develop, scientifically substantiate, and commercialize innovative smoke-free products for adults who would otherwise continue to smoke, with the goal of completely ending the sale of cigarettes. As of December 31, 2024, PMI's smoke-free products were available for sale in 95 markets, and PMI estimates they were used by 38.6 million adults around the world. The smoke-free business accounted for 42% of PMI's first-quarter 2025 total net revenues. Adult nicotine users looking for further information on IQOS ILUMA i, its features, and additional important information can be found on For more information about our science, please visit: Science Behind PMI's Smoke-Free Products | PMI Science (1) '95% less' represents the average reduction of the 9 chemicals recommended for reduction in cigarette smoke by the World Health Organization, which does not include nicotine. See Important Information on (2) Important information: It does not necessarily equal a 95% reduction in risk. IQOS is not risk-free and provides nicotine, which is addictive. Only for use by adults .
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
5 Consumer Staples Stocks to Buy as Fed Keeps Interest Rates Unchanged
Geopolitical tensions, a delay in the interest rate cut and uncertainty over the impact of President Donald Trump's tariffs have again made markets volatile. Although consumer confidence rebounded slightly in May after Trump temporarily paused the tariffs, investors remain concerned about the economy's health. Given the uncertainty, it would be ideal to invest in safe-haven defensive stocks from the consumer staples sector such as Philip Morris International Inc. PM, Nomad Foods Limited( NOMD), Altria Group, Inc. MO, The Coca-Cola Company KO and Ingredion Incorporated INGR. Each of these stocks carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. Also, these stocks are from the low-beta category (beta greater than 0 but less than 1). Hence, the recommended approach is to invest in low-beta stocks with a high dividend yield and a favorable Zacks Rank. The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged at the end of its June FOMC meeting in the current range of 4.25% to 4.5%. The move was highly expected as Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell reiterated his earlier comments that the central bank will wait and watch the impact of Trump's tariffs on inflation before deciding on resuming rate cuts. Policymakers also lowered their 2025 economic growth forecast to just 1.4% and increased their core inflation outlook to 3.1%. Understandably, the uncertainty over the impact of tariffs has raised concerns among market participants about the economy's future. Although the United States has reached a trade deal with its biggest trading partner, China, it is yet to be seen how the new tariffs will impact the economy. Meanwhile, ongoing geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel have also raised fears of a full-fledged war. Israel launched missile strikes on Iran last week, targeting its nuclear sites and reportedly eliminating several top scientists. Iran retaliated with a barrage of missile strikes on Israel over the weekend. Although the United States is yet to get directly involved in the conflict, tensions have been escalating, with Trump weighing in on striking Iran. The United States has also been mobilizing its warships and bombers in the Middle East. Washington's involvement in the conflict could further escalate tension. This could keep markets volatile for a longer period. Philip Morris International Inc. is progressing well with its business transformation in the face of consumers' rising health consciousness and stern regulations to dissuade smoking. To this end, PM has been expanding its reduced risk products (RRPs) or smoke-free products category, as evident from the success of IQOS (a heating tobacco device) that counts among one of the leading RRPs in the industry. Philip Morris International has an expected earnings growth rate of 13.7% for the current year. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for current-year earnings has improved 3.3% over the past 60 days. PM currently carries a Zacks Rank #2. Philip Morris International has a beta of 0.52 and a current dividend yield of 2.96%. Nomad Foods Limited manufactures and distributes frozen foods primarily in the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Sweden, France and Norway. NOMD's portfolio of frozen food brands includes Birds Eye, Iglo and Findus. Nomad Foods Ltd. is headquartered in Feltham, the United Kingdom. Nomad Foods has an expected earnings growth rate of 7.3% for the current year. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for current-year earnings has improved 4% over the last 60 days. NOMD presently sports a Zacks Rank #1. Nomad Foods has a beta of 0.75 and a current dividend yield of 3.96%. Altria Group, been evolving with the changing industry dynamics. Given the rising health consciousness and stern government regulations to discourage smoking, MO has been moving beyond traditional cigarettes and expanding in the smokeless category. Altria Group's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 5.3%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current-year earnings has improved 2.1% over the past 60 days. MO currently has a Zacks Rank #2. Altria Grouphas a beta of 0.60 and a current dividend yield of 6.86%. The Coca-Cola Company's strong brand equity, marketing, research and innovation help it to garner a market share of more than 40% in the non-alcoholic beverage industry. KO is putting its best foot forward to evolve its business model to become a total beverage company with something for everyone to drink. The Coca-Cola Company has coped with the industry-wide flattening of soda sales over the years by going on a buying spree and making investments in healthier alternatives like coffee, sparkling water and sports drinks. The Coca-Cola Company has an expected earnings growth rate of 3.1% for the current year. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for current-year earnings has improved 0.3% over the past 60 days. KO currently carries a Zacks Rank #2. The Coca-Cola Company has a beta of 0.46 and a current dividend yield of 2.95%. Ingredion Incorporated is an ingredients solutions provider specializing in nature-based sweeteners, starches and nutrition ingredients. INGR serves diverse sectors in food, beverage, brewing, pharmaceuticals and other industries. Ingredion's expected earnings growth rate for the current year is 6.1%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for current-year earnings has improved 1.5% over the past 60 days. INGR carries a Zacks Rank #2. Ingredionhas a beta of 0.46 and a current dividend yield of 2.34%. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report CocaCola Company (The) (KO) : Free Stock Analysis Report Altria Group, Inc. (MO) : Free Stock Analysis Report Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) : Free Stock Analysis Report Ingredion Incorporated (INGR) : Free Stock Analysis Report Nomad Foods Limited (NOMD) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data