Should I buy Unilever stock in 2025?
Is Unilever stock a buy right now?
Unilever PLC, trading at approximately $63.50 as of May 2025 on the London Stock Exchange, stands as a key player in the global consumer defensive sector, known for its household and personal products. With an average daily trading volume of around 3 million shares, investor interest remains robust, reflecting confidence in Unilever's steady performance even amidst pockets of global economic uncertainty. Recent months have seen notable, manageable developments: the much-anticipated separation of its Ice Cream division (The Magnum Ice Cream Company) is progressing, and a €1.5 billion share buyback program is ongoing, both of which are viewed constructively by analysts. Moreover, Unilever continues to strengthen its position via targeted acquisitions and a well-executed productivity program expected to yield substantial cost savings by year-end. Technical indicators reinforce a moderately bullish sentiment; the stock is firmly above its 200-day moving average, and key momentum signals are positive. Sector-wide, the consumer staple space has outperformed more cyclical areas in recent market environments, reinforcing Unilever's defensive appeal. The consensus from over 29 national and international banks currently points to a target price of $82.60, underscoring a broadly positive outlook for long-term investors seeking both stability and opportunity in a high-quality, dividend-paying blue chip.
- Diverse portfolio with leading brands in multiple fast-growing global categories.
- Consistent dividend growth and a current 3.3% yield support attractive income.
- Ongoing cost-saving programme expected to unlock €550 million in 2025.
- Strong presence in both developed and emerging markets aids revenue resilience.
- Upbeat technical outlook with price above major moving averages and healthy trading momentum.
- Slower sales growth in some emerging markets may dampen near-term headline results.
- Consumer sector faces ongoing competitive pressures impacting pricing power and margins.
- What is Unilever?
- How much is Unilever stock?
- Our full analysis on Unilever </b>stock
- How to buy Unilever stock in United Kingdom?
- Our 7 tips for buying Unilever stock
- The latest news about Unilever
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our expert has been monitoring Unilever’s performance for over three years. Every month, hundreds of thousands of users in the United Kingdom rely on us to analyse market trends and highlight the best investment opportunities. Our analysis is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. In line with our ethical guidelines, we have never been, and will never be, remunerated by Unilever.
What is Unilever?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United Kingdom | UK-based global leader, offering strong domestic and international market presence. |
| 💼 Market | London Stock Exchange (LSE) | Main listing on LSE, providing high visibility for UK and international investors. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | GB00B10RZP78 | Unique identifier ensures ease of trading and transparency across global markets. |
| 👤 CEO | Fernando Fernandez | New CEO brings fresh leadership; may drive strategic transformation and operational focus. |
| 🏢 Market cap | $155.96 billion | Large market cap reflects Unilever’s resilience and scale in the global consumer sector. |
| 📈 Revenue | €14.8 billion (Q1 2025) | Stable revenue base, though quarterly sales slipped slightly versus last year. |
| 💹 EBITDA | €2.7 billion (estimate Q1 2025) | Strong EBITDA margin signals robust operating performance and cash generation. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 24.52 (forward 17.79) | High P/E shows growth and income appeal, though valuation is above sector average. |
How much is Unilever stock?
The price of Unilever stock is rising this week. As of the latest data, Unilever shares are trading at $63.50, up 0.79% over the past 24 hours and gaining 2.6% this week. The company’s market capitalisation stands at $155.96 billion, with an average trading volume of 3 million shares over the past three months. Unilever features a P/E ratio of 24.52, a dividend yield of 3.28%, and its stock beta of 0.22 reflects lower than average volatility. With positive momentum and a steady dividend, the stock offers an appealing balance of stability and potential for UK investors.
Compare the best brokers in the UK!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Unilever stock
Having rigorously examined Unilever’s latest financial performance, stock behaviour across recent years, and synthesised diverse market, fundamental, and technical datasets through advanced analytical algorithms, we present a thorough review of Unilever PLC. This analysis scrutinises the company’s up-to-date results, competitive positioning, and technical momentum, particularly in the context of the dynamic global consumer goods sector. So, why might Unilever stock once again become a strategic entry point into the defensive consumer sector in 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Unilever’s share price has delivered a revitalised upward trajectory in the past twelve months, rising from around $52 to a recent high of $65.87, with the current market price stabilising at $63.50 (as of May 3, 2025). This 20% advance from 2023’s lows underscores the growing investor confidence in Unilever’s defensive qualities and robust dividend profile amid market volatility. The business boasts a notable market capitalisation of $155.96 billion, cementing its role as a global leader in household and personal products.
Notably, Unilever’s disciplined execution on its growth and efficiency programmes has underpinned this performance. The company recently posted underlying sales growth of 3.0% in Q1 2025—showing a balanced contribution from both volume (+1.3%) and price (+1.7%)—and announced a quarterly dividend increase to €0.4528 per share, up 6.1% year-on-year. Management’s full-year guidance of 3-5% underlying sales growth and modest margin improvement further reassures markets of continued resilience.
Sector-wide, the consumer staples universe remains a magnet for capital amid ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty. With inflation showing only tentative signs of easing and developed economy consumers maintaining spending on essentials, Unilever’s globally diverse footprint and portfolio of trusted brands align perfectly with shifting investor preferences toward quality, non-cyclical businesses.
Technical Analysis
From a technical standpoint, Unilever shares present an increasingly constructive setup. The stock is firmly above all its principal moving averages (20, 50, 100, and 200 days), with the 20-day moving average ($62.14) and the 50-day moving average ($59.74) both trailing the current share price—reinforcing the established bullish trend.
Momentum indicators illustrate further strength:
- RSI (14): 56.65, in neutral territory but well below overbought, suggesting headroom for a renewed advance.
- MACD (12,26,9): +1.14, delivering a positive 'buy' signal as momentum turns upwards.
- ADX (14): 18.58, trend strength is building but not yet overextended.
A particularly bullish technical catalyst is the recent 'Golden Cross' formation—where the 50-day moving average crossed above the 200-day average—frequently observed at the early stage of sustainable uptrends. The current price action sits comfortably above the primary support zone at $63.25–$63.26, with immediate resistance at $63.97–$64.22 and the 52-week high as the next technical objective.
Volume data adds further confirmation, with an average daily trading volume of 3 million shares reflecting ongoing institutional accumulation and liquidity sufficient for both institutional and retail participants. The technical structure and patterns suggest Unilever could be entering a new bullish phase, providing advantageous entry points for well-timed investment strategies.
Fundamental Analysis
Unilever’s fundamentals remain notably robust. Despite a minor 0.9% year-on-year decline in reported quarterly revenue—driven largely by FX translation and divestitures—underlying operating performance continues to display healthy momentum. The Q1 2025 results underline:
- Underlying sales growth: 3.0% (volume +1.3%, price +1.7%)
- Return on Equity: Exceptional at 29.41%
- Dividend Yield: 3.28%, with a consistent upward trajectory
- Forward P/E: 17.79 (compelling versus sector leaders)
- Enterprise Value/EBITDA: 13.65, reflecting efficient capital deployment
Segment-level analysis reveals diversification strengths and innovative brand management. Beauty & Wellbeing and Personal Care, each contributing 22% of turnover, delivered 4.1% and 5.1% growth respectively, buoyed by premium offerings (eg, Liquid I.V., Dove, Nutrafol). Home Care, Foods, and Ice Cream maintained positive or stable growth, with the latter also poised for an imminent value unlock through its planned separation as "The Magnum Ice Cream Company."
Strategically, Unilever sustains its role as a market share consolidator via smart acquisitions (eg, Minimalist and Wild) and targeted disposals, while a €550 million cost-saving initiative, on track for completion by end-2025, underpins future margin expansion. The ongoing €1.5 billion share buyback is further testimony to both strong cash generation and disciplined capital return.
The group’s defensive profile, presence in more than 190 countries, high penetration of emerging markets, and celebrated innovation pipeline (notably in premium and sustainable products) are competitive advantages seldom matched by industry peers. Brand strength remains a stand-out asset, with icons such as Dove, Hellmann’s, Magnum, and Rexona continuing to deliver above-market growth.
In valuation terms, a forward P/E of 17.79 and an attractive PEG ratio (given the expected 3-5% growth and strong cost discipline) make a persuasive case for renewed interest, particularly considering both dividend growth and resilience underlined by a low beta of 0.22.
Volume and Liquidity
Sustained trading activity reinforces market confidence in Unilever’s future trajectory. The average daily trading volume sits at a healthy 3 million shares, signalling continuous demand from both long-term holders and active traders. Liquidity is ample, ensuring tight bid-ask spreads and effective price discovery during all trading sessions.
Notably, Unilever’s capital structure and free float allow for vibrant market participation, supporting a dynamic and fair valuation process. High-quality institutional ownership also typically correlates with deeper liquidity and stability, factors that are present in Unilever’s shareholder base.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
Several imminent catalysts could propel Unilever’s next phase of growth and valuation re-rating:
- Separation of Ice Cream Division: Scheduled for Q4 2025, the formation of The Magnum Ice Cream Company is widely expected to unlock shareholder value, enabling a sharper focus on premium categories and core consumer brands.
- Ongoing Innovation and Premiumisation: Expansion into the wellness, premium beauty and personal care categories, with recent acquisitions in high-growth geographies (Minimalist in India, Wild in personal care), and successful launches in Wellbeing, indicate a strong innovation-led growth trajectory.
- Productivity Program and Margin Expansion: With €550 million in annual savings targeted by end-2025, Unilever is set to release further operational leverage, supporting profit growth above the rate of sales expansion.
- Emerging Market Recovery: Management anticipates an inflection in sales momentum in China and Indonesia during H2 2025—regions that, while volatile, represent powerful long-term growth engines.
- Share Buyback Programme: The ongoing €1.5 billion buyback, due for completion in early H2 2025, should provide consistent downside protection and additional support for earnings per share and valuation multiples.
- ESG and Sustainability Leadership: Unilever’s proactive stance on ESG and sustainability continues to appeal to a broader base of asset managers and long-term capital, reinforcing demand for the shares in an era of rising responsible investing mandates.
Collectively, these factors suggest a context highly favourable to further positive stock re-rating and investor engagement throughout 2025 and beyond.
Investment Strategies
Unilever offers compelling arguments for entry across various investment horizons.
- Short-Term:
Strong technical momentum, with the stock trading above all key moving averages and a recent golden cross pattern, favours tactical positioning near current support ($63.25–$63.26), with the potential for a move toward the 52-week high ($65.87).
The closing phase of the share buyback programme provides an additional near-term catalyst and technical tailwind. - Medium-Term:
The separation of the Ice Cream business and anticipated margin improvements offer significant re-rating potential in late 2025.
Expect continued positive news flow from cost-saving delivery, new product launches, and possible emerging market recovery, which may coincide with upward earnings revisions. - Long-Term:
Unilever stands out for its defensive, diversified nature, with a 3.28% dividend yield that reliably compounds total return.
Brand equity and global scale ensure the business remains well positioned to navigate macroeconomic fluctuations, while renewed emphasis on innovation could drive above-peer growth for years ahead.
For all horizons, the combination of fundamental quality, technical strength, and clear catalysts suggest that Unilever stands close to an ideal entry point—either for portfolio anchoring or incremental, tactical buys.
Is It the Right Time to Buy Unilever?
In summary, Unilever exhibits a textbook combination of fundamental resilience, technical clarity, and visible catalysts for value creation. Investors can point to consistently rising dividends, robust return on equity, market-leading brands, and a revitalised execution culture under new management as standout attributes. Technical indicators point to continued bullish momentum with key supports nearby and clear paths to new highs.
With the stock’s forward valuation at attractive levels relative to sector peers, and multiple growth levers soon to be realised—notably the Ice Cream separation, ongoing cost initiatives, and premium innovation pipeline—the fundamentals justify renewed interest and suggest Unilever may indeed be entering a new bullish phase.
For those seeking defensive growth and stable income within a high-quality global franchise, the current entry environment for Unilever appears exceptionally promising. As the balance of risks and rewards tips in favour of patient, quality-focused investors, Unilever’s stock seems to represent an excellent opportunity within the global consumer sector for 2025 and beyond—a moment not to be overlooked by those seeking both resilience and upside potential in the modern portfolio.
How to buy Unilever stock in United Kingdom?
Buying Unilever shares online is both straightforward and secure when using a regulated UK broker. Whether you’re interested in owning the shares outright (spot buying) or prefer a more flexible approach through Contracts for Difference (CFDs), today’s online platforms make the process accessible to all investors. Spot buying means you directly hold the shares, while CFDs allow you to trade on price movements—often with leverage but without actual ownership. Each method comes with its own advantages and risks. If you’re wondering which broker is right for you, a comprehensive broker comparison is available further down this page.
Spot buying
A spot (or cash) purchase means you are buying Unilever shares outright and becoming a shareholder. Your shares are held securely in your name (either directly or in nominee form) and you’ll be eligible to receive any dividends the company pays. Most UK brokers charge either a fixed commission per deal—typically between £5 and £15 per trade—or a small percentage. For example, if the Unilever share price is $63.50 (about £51 at recent exchange rates), you could buy around 19 shares with a £1,000 investment, including a brokerage fee of around £5.
Example: Spot Buying Gain Scenario
✔️ Gain scenario: If the Unilever share price rises by 10%, your shares would be worth approximately £1,100. Result: That’s a £100 gross gain—+10% on your initial investment (excluding potential stamp duty and taxes).
Trading via CFD
CFD trading (Contracts for Difference) lets you speculate on Unilever's share price movements without owning the underlying shares. This method is popular for its ability to use leverage—meaning you can control a larger position with a smaller amount of capital. However, it’s important to consider the costs: brokers charge a ‘spread’ (the difference between buy and sell prices) and an overnight financing fee if you keep positions open beyond the trading day.
Example: CFD Leverage Scenario
Example: With a £1,000 stake and 5x leverage, you open a CFD position on Unilever shares, giving you exposure of £5,000 to market movements.
Example: CFD Gain Scenario
✔️ Gain scenario: If Unilever shares rise by 8%, your CFD position earns 8% × 5 = 40% return. Result: That’s a £400 gain on a £1,000 deposit (before fees and charges). Remember, leverage also increases potential losses.
Final advice
Before you commit, always compare the fees, commissions, and features offered by different brokers. Fees can significantly impact your returns, especially for active traders or those using leverage. Ultimately, whether you choose to own Unilever shares outright or trade them via CFDs depends on your investment goals, risk appetite, and time horizon. For a detailed side-by-side look at leading UK brokers, check out the comparator further down this page. Happy investing!
Is EightCap reliable?
Yes, EightCap is a trusted platform, regulated by the FCA (UK) and the ASIC (Australia). Since 2009, it has ensured the security of funds with segregated accounts and a rigorously regulated trading environment. If you are looking for a reliable broker to get started, EightCap is a safe platform, recognised in the industry.
Why choose EightCap?
EightCap combines performance and flexibility. The platform offers a wide selection of assets and tools like TradingView, perfect for demanding traders. Are you a novice? No problem: its demo accounts and innovative integrations like TradingView make learning intuitive and efficient.
What are the fees at EightCap?
At EightCap, fees depend on the account you choose: Raw accounts display spreads starting from 0 pips, with a commission of $3.5 per lot. Standard accounts, on the other hand, have slightly higher spreads but no commissions. No fees on deposits or withdrawals, for clear and controlled costs.
Who is EightCap for?
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, EightCap is designed to meet your needs. Are you starting out? Take advantage of guides and demo accounts to understand the basics. Are you more advanced? Tools like TradingView and competitive spreads will allow you to go further in your strategies.
Is it easy to withdraw your money from EightCap?
Withdrawing your winnings on EightCap is simple and fast. Requests are processed within 24 hours and you can use flexible options such as bank transfer, cards or electronic wallets. Security and speed are at the heart of the service.
Is EightCap reliable?
Yes, EightCap is a trusted platform, regulated by the FCA (UK) and the ASIC (Australia). Since 2009, it has ensured the security of funds with segregated accounts and a rigorously regulated trading environment. If you are looking for a reliable broker to get started, EightCap is a safe platform, recognised in the industry.
Why choose EightCap?
EightCap combines performance and flexibility. The platform offers a wide selection of assets and tools like TradingView, perfect for demanding traders. Are you a novice? No problem: its demo accounts and innovative integrations like TradingView make learning intuitive and efficient.
What are the fees at EightCap?
At EightCap, fees depend on the account you choose: Raw accounts display spreads starting from 0 pips, with a commission of $3.5 per lot. Standard accounts, on the other hand, have slightly higher spreads but no commissions. No fees on deposits or withdrawals, for clear and controlled costs.
Who is EightCap for?
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, EightCap is designed to meet your needs. Are you starting out? Take advantage of guides and demo accounts to understand the basics. Are you more advanced? Tools like TradingView and competitive spreads will allow you to go further in your strategies.
Is it easy to withdraw your money from EightCap?
Withdrawing your winnings on EightCap is simple and fast. Requests are processed within 24 hours and you can use flexible options such as bank transfer, cards or electronic wallets. Security and speed are at the heart of the service.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the FCA (United Kingdom), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. According to our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while you invest.
You get access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community to exchange ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of shares or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposit is free, and withdrawal is set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a fee of $10 per month applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly mentioned on its website (we can't say the same for all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and its educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here, with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step by step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analysing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been reported.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the FCA (United Kingdom), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. According to our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while you invest.
You get access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community to exchange ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of shares or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposit is free, and withdrawal is set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a fee of $10 per month applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly mentioned on its website (we can't say the same for all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and its educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here, with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step by step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analysing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been reported.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions including the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and FSA (Japan). Operating since 2006, it offers strong guarantees, including the segregation of client funds and strict adherence to international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both beginner and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. The free tutorials, demo accounts and training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don’t need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when it comes to paying.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you’re looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is an excellent choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, bank transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to give you quick, clear and secure access.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions including the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and FSA (Japan). Operating since 2006, it offers strong guarantees, including the segregation of client funds and strict adherence to international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both beginner and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. The free tutorials, demo accounts and training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don’t need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when it comes to paying.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you’re looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is an excellent choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, bank transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to give you quick, clear and secure access.
Our 7 tips for buying Unilever stock
| Step | Specific tip for Unilever |
|---|---|
| Analyse the market | Review Unilever’s latest financial results and strategic updates, noting strong performance in developed markets and the upcoming ice cream separation as a key catalyst. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Opt for a UK-regulated brokerage that provides direct access to the London Stock Exchange, offers competitive fees, and allows shares to be held in ISAs for tax efficiency. |
| Define your investment budget | Allocate only a portion of your portfolio to Unilever, considering its stable dividend but modest growth profile; ensure your investment fits your overall diversification plan. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Consider a long-term approach, taking advantage of Unilever’s defensive sector, reliable dividends, and upcoming structural changes such as the Magnum Ice Cream spin-off. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Regularly track Unilever’s quarterly updates, management commentary, and developments in key markets, especially progress in emerging regions and cost-saving initiatives. |
| Use risk management tools | Utilise stop-loss orders to protect against unexpected share price drops, and consider trailing stops to secure profits as Unilever trends upward. |
| Sell at the right time | Evaluate taking profits if Unilever’s price nears its 52-week highs or if technical indicators signal overbought conditions, while factoring in major corporate events. |
The latest news about Unilever
Unilever’s Q1 2025 results revealed robust growth in developed markets, with underlying sales rising 4.5% and volumes up 3.3% across Europe and North America. This performance is particularly relevant for UK investors, as it demonstrates resilience and strong consumer demand in regions core to Unilever’s London-based operations. Brands like Dove, which grew over 8% in the Beauty & Wellbeing segment, and the continued expansion of Hellmann’s foods underscore Unilever’s effectiveness in maintaining premium pricing power and market share in the UK and Western Europe, even amidst subdued global economic conditions.
The technical outlook for Unilever shares is distinctly positive, as the stock trades above all key moving averages and recently confirmed a golden cross. With its price comfortably exceeding the 20-, 50-, 100-, and 200-day moving averages and momentum indicators such as MACD giving a buy signal, the share exhibits sustained bullish momentum. The low beta of 0.22 indicates stability and lower volatility compared to the broader market, a trait that is often prized by institutional and retail investors in the UK seeking dependable, lower-risk blue-chip exposure. The recent high trading volume signals ongoing investor confidence and healthy accumulation, while support and resistance levels near multi-year highs confirm the current strength of the uptrend.
Unilever’s ongoing €1.5 billion share buyback programme, on track for completion in H1 2025, is delivering direct value to shareholders. This capital return initiative reinforces the company’s commitment to enhancing shareholder returns, and the recent 6.1% increase in the quarterly dividend further strengthens Unilever's appeal for income-focused UK investors. With a forecasted dividend yield of 3.28% and eligibility for UK’s ISA accounts, the stock offers both attractive income and tax advantages to local investors, solidifying its status as a cornerstone income holding.
The separation of the Ice Cream business, scheduled for Q4 2025 and to be branded “The Magnum Ice Cream Company,” represents a strategic catalyst for unlocking value. By spinning off a distinct, fast-growing segment, Unilever aims to sharpen its focus on higher-margin categories such as personal care, beauty, and wellbeing. This initiative is expected to enhance operational agility and could lead to value accretion, with UK and European analysts highlighting the move as a bold signal of Unilever’s willingness to optimise its portfolio and align with investor calls for increased transparency and focus.
Unilever’s productivity programme has successfully delivered around €550 million in cost savings and completed significant workforce reductions, supporting ongoing margin expansion efforts. The programme, which is ahead of schedule, is particularly constructive as it enhances the company’s ability to counteract inflationary pressures without sacrificing investment in innovation or brand support. This proactive approach to efficiency bodes well for UK investors seeking operating leverage, as it creates additional resources to invest in innovation and marketing, thereby underpinning Unilever’s premium brand positioning in a competitive market environment.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Unilever stock?
Unilever stock currently pays a quarterly dividend. The latest declared dividend is €0.4528 per share for Q1 2025, reflecting a 6.1% increase from the previous year and paid on the scheduled quarterly date. The current dividend yield stands at around 3.3%, supported by Unilever’s long-standing commitment to stable and growing dividend payouts—making it appealing for income-focused investors.
What is the forecast for Unilever stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on current pricing, projections for Unilever stock are: end of 2025—$82.55; end of 2026—$95.25; end of 2027—$127.00. The company’s ongoing portfolio transformation, premium product innovation, and cost-saving initiatives provide further support for a constructive outlook, with analysts generally positive on the stock given its defensive sector profile and strong fundamentals.
Should I sell my Unilever shares?
Holding onto Unilever shares may be a prudent approach, given the company’s robust fundamentals and strategic resilience. Unilever’s record of consistent dividend growth, defensive market positioning, and ongoing operational improvements points to solid mid- to long-term potential. The stock’s stable valuation and strong performance in developed markets also support a favourable holding case, particularly for investors seeking quality and stability in the consumer sector.
Are Unilever shares eligible for an ISA and how are dividends taxed in the UK?
Yes, Unilever shares are eligible for inclusion in a UK Stocks and Shares ISA. Dividends received within an ISA are free from UK income tax, and you won’t pay capital gains tax on any growth in value. Outside ISAs, UK investors currently benefit from a tax-free dividend allowance before income tax applies; there is no UK withholding tax on Unilever dividends.
What is the latest dividend for Unilever stock?
Unilever stock currently pays a quarterly dividend. The latest declared dividend is €0.4528 per share for Q1 2025, reflecting a 6.1% increase from the previous year and paid on the scheduled quarterly date. The current dividend yield stands at around 3.3%, supported by Unilever’s long-standing commitment to stable and growing dividend payouts—making it appealing for income-focused investors.
What is the forecast for Unilever stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on current pricing, projections for Unilever stock are: end of 2025—$82.55; end of 2026—$95.25; end of 2027—$127.00. The company’s ongoing portfolio transformation, premium product innovation, and cost-saving initiatives provide further support for a constructive outlook, with analysts generally positive on the stock given its defensive sector profile and strong fundamentals.
Should I sell my Unilever shares?
Holding onto Unilever shares may be a prudent approach, given the company’s robust fundamentals and strategic resilience. Unilever’s record of consistent dividend growth, defensive market positioning, and ongoing operational improvements points to solid mid- to long-term potential. The stock’s stable valuation and strong performance in developed markets also support a favourable holding case, particularly for investors seeking quality and stability in the consumer sector.
Are Unilever shares eligible for an ISA and how are dividends taxed in the UK?
Yes, Unilever shares are eligible for inclusion in a UK Stocks and Shares ISA. Dividends received within an ISA are free from UK income tax, and you won’t pay capital gains tax on any growth in value. Outside ISAs, UK investors currently benefit from a tax-free dividend allowance before income tax applies; there is no UK withholding tax on Unilever dividends.
