0939 GMT - AB InBev's 4Q and profitability came ahead of expectations despite lower volumes, ING analysts say in a note. The brewer's revenue growth by 2.5% to $14.84 billion beat ING's forecast by 8.7% and consensus by 4.7%, although volumes were down by 2%, they say. AB InBev reduced its debt/Ebitda ratio, reflected in the 22% dividend increase, they say. Also, AB InBev expects lower capex in the range of $3.5 billion to $4.0 billion, compared with consensus of $4.5 billion, they say. This is likely to drive some modest upgrades on 2025 free-cash-flow expectations, the analysts add. Ebitda growth remains in line with the company's long-term target, they say. Shares are up 7.3% at 56.06 euros. (michael.susin@wsj.com)
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
February 26, 2025 04:39 ET (09:39 GMT)
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