Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO) Executive Vice President Beatriz R. Perez completed the sale of 36,326 shares of common stock on February 25 and 26, 2026, at prices ranging from $80.60 to $80.75, generating proceeds of approximately $2.93 million.
The trades occurred while the stock was trading close to its 52-week high of $81.09; the share price is reported at $81.62. Alongside the sale, a Form 4 filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission shows Perez exercised options to acquire the same number of shares - 36,326 - at exercise prices between $44.475 and $45.435. The exercise of those options carried a total cost of $1,629,998.
Following these transactions, Perez is listed as directly owning 173,728 shares of Coca-Cola common stock. The filing also records indirect holdings of 24,200 shares through the company 401(k) plan and an additional 12,462 hypothetical shares through a supplemental 401(k) plan.
Valuation context and research note
InvestingPro analysis cited in the filing materials indicates Coca-Cola appears overvalued at current market levels when compared to its Fair Value. The filing references further InvestingPro coverage - including more than 15 InvestingPro Tips and a Pro Research Report that highlights aspects such as the company’s long track record of dividend increases.
Recent operating results and guidance
The company announced fourth-quarter results showing organic sales growth that beat expectations. Coca-Cola also released fiscal year 2026 guidance that management said broadly aligns with market expectations for revenue and earnings.
Market responses included analyst price-target adjustments and rating confirmations. UBS raised its price target on Coca-Cola from $82.00 to $87.00 while maintaining a Buy rating. TD Cowen lifted its price target from $80.00 to $85.00, citing organic sales and earnings per share that outpaced consensus. Piper Sandler reiterated an Overweight rating in light of strategic commentary from incoming CEO Henrique Braun.
Dividend and leadership updates
Coca-Cola declared a 4% increase in its quarterly dividend to $0.53 per common share, bringing the annual payout to $2.12 per share. The company noted this marks the 64th consecutive year of dividend growth. Leadership changes announced include Henrique Braun being named chief executive officer effective March 31, 2026, while current CEO James Quincey will transition to the role of Executive Chairman.
Takeaway
The SEC Form 4 filing documents a sizeable disposal by a senior executive that followed option exercises and occurred while shares traded near multi-quarter highs. At the same time, the company reported stronger-than-expected organic growth for the fourth quarter, issued guidance consistent with market expectations, and increased its dividend for the 64th consecutive year. Analyst reactions included higher price targets and maintained/affirmed ratings from UBS, TD Cowen, and Piper Sandler.