Hershey Co vs Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. — how do they compare? Hershey Co trades at $171.69 (market cap $34.83B), while Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. trades at $176.24 (market cap $86.66B). The key difference: Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. is far larger — about 2.5× Hershey Co's market cap, and Hershey Co pays the higher dividend (3.38%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| HSY | MRSH | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $34.83B | $86.66B |
Sector | Consumer Staples | Financials |
52-Week High | $236.28 | $211.21 |
52-Week Low | $162.31 | $157.32 |
Enterprise Value | $39.63B | $107.50B |
Dividend Yield | 3.38% | 2.18% |
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.
Marsh (MRSH) trades at $181.59, down 0.32% on the day, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages and support at $180. The company reported strong Q2 2026 earnings, beating estimates with $2.96 EPS versus $2.88 expected, driven by 6% revenue growth to $7.4 billion. Fundamentals show robust profitability with a 14.26% net margin and 27.42% ROE, while valuation ratios like P/E of 22.77 and P/S of 3.26 reflect premium pricing. Recent news highlights a 10% dividend increase to $0.99 per share, payable in August 2026.
The outlook for MRSH is positive, supported by consistent earnings beats and strategic AI investments, but risks include rising operating expenses and softer insurance pricing. Analysts maintain a consensus price target of $203.75, implying 12% upside, with 11 buy ratings outweighing 1 sell. Investors should monitor expense management and organic growth sustainability amid competitive pressures.
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 →Marsh & McLennan Companies Inc is a professional services firm that provides advice and solutions in the areas of risk, strategy, and human capital. The company operates through two main segments: risk and insurance services and consulting. In risk and insurance services, the firm offers services via Marsh (an insurance broker) and Guy Carpenter (a risk and reinsurance specialist). The consulting division comprises Mercer (a provider of human resource services) and Oliver Wyman (management and economic consultancy).
Read more on MRSH →