Colgate-Palmolive's (CL) Q4 organic sales growth was weaker than expected, but Morgan Stanley remains optimistic about its long-term trajectory, expecting the company to outpace most peers in organic sales growth.

The firm noted in a Monday note that Colgate-Palmolive's 2025 EPS guidance was better than expected, driven by pricing strategies and past reinvestment. However, cost pressures and foreign exchange risks make the lower end of guidance seem more achievable.

"We are more bullish than most investors we spoke with and believe that Colgate-Palmolive will be a 4% organic sales growth company going forward, supported by pricing power and market share gains," Morgan Stanley added.

The firm added that Colgate-Palmolive's global toothpaste market share dipped slightly due to foreign exchange-driven mix effects, while Hill's Pet Nutrition contributed to overall growth, despite European weakness.

Morgan Stanley reduced its price target of Colgate-Palmolive's stock to $104 from $111 and has an overweight rating.

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