Barclays raises expectations for Swiss chocolatiers as cocoa prices fall

The Swiss chocolate sector is experiencing renewed optimism, buoyed by new positive forecasts from Barclays. The bank’s analysts have upgraded their recommendations on two of Switzerland’s leading chocolate companies, Barry Callebaut AG and Lindt & Sprüngli AG, predicting that the sector will benefit significantly from the recent decline in cocoa prices. Favorable Forecasts and Market Reaction Barclays has upgraded its recommendations on Barry Callebaut and Lindt & Sprüngli shares from “neutral” to “overweight”, reflecting a more optimistic view on these chocolate giants. The upgrade had an immediate impact on the market: Barry Callebaut shares rose as much as 8% on the Zurich Stock Exchange, while Lindt shares also posted significant gains. Previous Pressure and Current Relief The global confectionery market has faced major challenges over the past year due to the substantial increase in cocoa prices, a crucial ingredient. Cocoa futures more than doubled year-ago levels and hit ...