Anheuser Busch - BUD STOCK NEWS

Byline Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE: BY) appointed Margarita Hugues Vélez to its Board of Directors and announced the retirement of Steven M. Rull effective at the upcoming Annual Meeting in June. Hugues Vélez brings significant experience in corporate law and innovation, expected to enhance the board's effectiveness during a transformational period for the banking industry. Rull, who served since 2016, is commended for his invaluable contributions to Byline. This leadership change may indicate a strategic shift as the company continues to adapt to industry changes.

Budweiser Launches The Energy Collective to provide renewable electricity to bars, stadiums, and music venues globally. This initiative aims to support AB InBev's ambition of achieving net zero emissions by 2040. To date, over 2,000 bars in Brazil and Ireland have transitioned to renewable energy, aiming for 250,000 venues by 2025, potentially saving 36,375 tons of CO2e annually. Budweiser emphasizes sustainable brewing with a goal of 100% renewable energy by 2025.

Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE: MO) presented at the virtual Consumer Analyst Group of New York Conference, discussing its strategic investments aimed at leading the transition to a smoke-free future. CEO Billy Gifford emphasized the importance of this vision for tobacco consumers, shareholders, and society. Altria reaffirmed its 2022 full-year adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) guidance at $4.79 to $4.93, showing 4% to 7% growth from 2021. The company underscores that its guidance considers various economic factors, including inflation and regulatory developments, while planning substantial investments in smoke-free product initiatives.

Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE: MO) announced that a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Administrative Law Judge dismissed claims regarding its minority investment in JUUL Labs, Inc. The ruling followed a three-week trial, concluding that the evidence did not support the allegations of antitrust violations. The FTC can review the decision, which may also be appealed in U.S. Courts. Altria is focused on leading the transition to smoke-free products.

Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) has been recognized as a member of CDP's 2021 Supplier Engagement Leaderboard for climate change, placing in the top 8% of companies for supplier engagement on climate issues. The Supplier Engagement Rating (SER) assesses governance, emissions, and value chain engagement. Altria aims to achieve significant sustainability goals by 2030, including a 55% reduction in Scope 1 & 2 emissions and 100% renewable electricity. The company also published its first TCFD report, highlighting its commitment to addressing climate-related risks.

Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) announced the retirement of Director Dinyar S. Devitre from its Board of Directors after nearly 50 years of service. Mr. Devitre will not seek re-election during the upcoming 2022 Annual Meeting, scheduled for May 19, 2022. His contributions included serving as the Senior Vice President and CFO, and he currently chairs the Finance Committee. Altria aims to transition adult smokers to smoke-free alternatives, supported by its diverse portfolio of tobacco and smoke-free products, including significant investments in Anheuser-Busch InBev (NYSE:BUD).

Altria Group reported its Q4 2021 and full-year results, highlighting strong financial performance with a net revenue of $26 billion, down 0.5% year-over-year. The company returned over $8.1 billion to shareholders via dividends and share repurchases, marking its largest annual return since 2002. For 2022, Altria expects adjusted diluted EPS between $4.79 and $4.93, indicating a growth rate of 4% to 7%. Notably, challenges remain with the IQOS device following ITC orders and pending PMTA applications for JUUL and on! products.

The Kraft Heinz Company (KHC) has appointed Dafne Hefner as the Chief Strategy & Transformation Officer for the North America Zone, effective January 18, 2022. Hefner, previously with Anheuser-Busch InBev, will accelerate Kraft Heinz's growth strategy focusing on digital initiatives and Agile team deployment. The company has been transforming its operations since 2020, emphasizing a consumer-first approach and restructuring its U.S. and Canada businesses into a North America Zone for improved operational efficiency. This transition marks a significant strategic step for the company.

MSG Sports and Anheuser-Busch have renewed their multi-year marketing sponsorship, enhancing brand visibility across MSG assets, including the New York Knicks and New York Rangers. The deal features the launch of the “Michelob ULTRA Courtside” experience, allowing fans to win exclusive game tickets. Furthermore, Anheuser-Busch will be the Presenting Partner of the historic Blue Seats Section at Madison Square Garden and will collaborate with esports properties, enhancing engagement with fans through Twitch livestreams. In-game LED messaging and other marketing integrations are included.