Hershey Co vs Medtronic PLC — how do they compare? Hershey Co trades at $171.9 (market cap $34.83B), while Medtronic PLC trades at $82.31 (market cap $106.61B). The key difference: Medtronic PLC is far larger — about 3.1× Hershey Co's market cap, and Medtronic PLC pays the higher dividend (3.46%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| HSY | MDT | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $34.83B | $106.61B |
Sector | Consumer Staples | Health |
52-Week High | $236.28 | $105.35 |
52-Week Low | $162.31 | $73.75 |
Enterprise Value | $39.63B | $125.36B |
Dividend Yield | 3.38% | 3.46% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Hershey (HSY) trades at $170.63, down 0.46% on the day, with a bearish technical signal from moving averages. The company reported revenue of $11.69B for 2025 with a net income margin of 9.12%, though margins have compressed from prior years. Recent earnings have consistently beaten expectations, and the company announced a $1.45 dividend payable in June 2026. Analyst consensus is a 'Hold' with a price target of $207.82, indicating potential upside from current levels.
The outlook for HSY hinges on margin recovery as high cocoa costs cycle out. While valuation multiples appear elevated, consistent earnings beats and a solid dividend yield of approximately 3.4% provide support. Key risks include persistent volume weakness and competitive pressures. The stock presents a cautious opportunity for investors betting on a fundamental rebound in the second half of 2026.
Medtronic (MDT) trades at $82.35, down 1.02% on the day, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages. The company reported strong earnings beats in recent quarters, with Q2 2026 EPS expected at $1.39. Revenue grew to $33.54B in 2025, with a net income margin of 13.2%. Recent news highlights the acquisition of SPR and the launch of AI-powered surgical technology, signaling innovation-driven growth.
The outlook for MDT is positive, supported by analyst consensus with a $97.50 price target and 58% buy ratings. Key opportunities include robust cash flow and dividend stability, while risks involve rising debt levels and competitive pressures in medtech. The stock presents a value proposition with a P/E of 22.33, trading below the consensus target.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Latest headlines on both assets
Hershey is a leading confectionery manufacturer in the U.S. (around a $25 billion market), controlling around 46% of the domestic chocolate space (per IRI). Beyond its namesake label, the firm's mix has expanded over the last 85 years and now consists of 100 brands, including Reese's, Kit Kat, Kisses, and Ice Breakers. Hershey's products are sold in about 80 countries, albeit with just a high-single-digit percentage of sales coming from markets outside the U.S., including Brazil, India, and Mexico. The firm has sought inorganic opportunities to extend its reach beyond its core confection business, adding Amplify Snack Brands and its Skinny Pop ready-to-eat popcorn to its mix and Pirate Brands (including the Pirate's Booty, Smart Puffs, and Original Tings brands) over the past few years.
Read more on HSY →One of the largest medical device companies, Medtronic develops and manufactures therapeutic medical devices for chronic diseases. Its portfolio includes pacemakers, defibrillators, heart valves, stents, insulin pumps, spinal fixation devices, neurovascular products, advanced energy, and surgical tools. The company markets its products to healthcare institutions and physicians in the United States and overseas. Foreign sales account for almost 50% of the company's total sales.
Read more on MDT →