Markets were quiet today, awaiting this, that or the other. It seems like markets are always waiting for something. I’m waiting for my stocks to go up, but a watched pot never boils goes the saying.
Stock markets continue to be dominated by AI. AI here and everywhere.
I find that a lot of the talking heads spew out totally useless and misleading investment advice. There is no accountability or back-checking of what guys like Cramer say. Here is the AI answer about Cramer and General Mills:
Yes, financial personality Jim Cramer has a history of recommending General Mills. However, his stance has evolved, shifting from a long-term “Steady Eddie” buy to a more cautious “hold,” depending on market conditions and company performance (TheStreet, CNBC).
Historical Recommendations:” Steady Eddie” Buy (2013, 2015): Early on, Cramer was impressed with the company’s management and viewed General Mills (GIS) as a stable, long-term investment suitable for income and growth portfolios, even for buying for children’s portfolios. He also called it a buy opportunity during a product recall, viewing it as a temporary issue.
Appetizing for Investors (2015): He recommended the stock based on its shift toward more natural and organic ingredients, tying it to a food revolution.
Too Cheap to Ignore (2019): In 2019, Cramer recommended the stock again, feeling it was undervalued and leading a rebound in the packaged food sector.
Shifting Stance and Current Caution
Over time, Cramer’s view has become more nuanced, reflecting challenges in the consumer packaged goods industry:
Valuation Concerns (2016): While he acknowledged the stock’s strong performance, he noted that analysts and hedge fund managers questioned its valuation and lack of organic growth.
Performance Issues (2025): More recently, he has expressed concerns about the company’s performance, citing weak numbers and a slowdown in the snacking category as an “existential” issue for the whole group.
“Hold” or Cautious Outlook (2023-Present): His current stance is generally more cautious. He has moved General Mills from a “buy” to a “hold” and expressed significant concerns, especially regarding inflation and potential margin sacrifices. He has even said, “I’ve gone from here to here, meaning, no, not much stance changed at all,” and noted the stock can be a “major laggard” in the consumer goods space.”
With a guy like this, who knows what the heck to invest in? Cramer invests in stocks, not enduring businesses with a lot of goodwill (an intangible asset).
You need to develop the mindset that you are investing in a business. Kellogg’s and General Mills were both in the business of selling repackaged sugar. How long could that last? Maybe you can say the same thing about KO, but over the years, they have broadened their product lines to healthier alternatives. But what do I know?