0941 GMT - Reckitt reported a mixed set of 2024 results as profits and earnings came considerably ahead of expectations but fourth-quarter sales put a slight damper on things, Quilter Cheviot head of equity research Chris Beckett says in a note. The consumer-goods company--which houses Dettol, Harpic and Durex among its brands--lifted profits through a gearing effect from higher prices and productivity improvements that led to a lower cost base, Beckett says. However, fourth-quarter sales were disappointing, reflecting the weak cold-and-flu season in the U.S. as reported by peers such as Kenvue and Procter & Gamble, he adds. Reckitt's 4Q sales growth came in at 4.6%, but the market was expecting 5.3%, Beckett adds. Shares are up 2% and have risen nearly 10% since the start of 2025. (michael.susin@wsj.com)
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
March 06, 2025 04:41 ET (09:41 GMT)
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