SCHEDULE 13G: Neuberger Berman Discloses Over 5% Passive Stake in Utz Brands, Inc.

Neuberger Berman Group LLC and its affiliate have reported a beneficial ownership exceeding 5% in Utz Brands, Inc. common stock, held for investment purposes in the ordinary course of business.

Summary

• Neuberger Berman Group LLC reported beneficial ownership of 4,179,491 shares of Utz Brands, Inc. common stock, representing 5.1% of the class, as of December 31, 2024.
• Neuberger Berman Investment Advisers LLC, an affiliate, reported beneficial ownership of 4,149,247 shares, representing 5.0% of the class, as of the same date.
• Both reporting entities hold these shares with shared voting power (4,101,221 shares for Neuberger Berman Group LLC and 4,071,624 shares for Neuberger Berman Investment Advisers LLC) and shared dispositive power (4,179,491 shares for Neuberger Berman Group LLC and 4,149,247 shares for Neuberger Berman Investment Advisers LLC).
• The shares were acquired and are held in the ordinary course of business and not for the purpose of changing or influencing the control of Utz Brands, Inc.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: The sentiment is moderately positive as a major institutional investor has disclosed a significant passive stake, which can be seen as a vote of confidence in the company. However, it does not provide operational or financial performance details.

Positives

• The disclosure of a significant passive investment by a major institutional asset manager like Neuberger Berman Group LLC and its affiliates, holding over 5% of Utz Brands, Inc. common stock, can be interpreted as a vote of confidence in the company's long-term prospects.
• The filing explicitly states that the securities were acquired and are held in the ordinary course of business, indicating a standard portfolio allocation rather than an activist stance, which can provide stability.

Future Outlook

This document does not provide any forward-looking statements or guidance regarding Utz Brands, Inc.'s future performance or strategic direction, as it is a beneficial ownership report by an investor.

Industry Context

This filing reflects a significant institutional investment in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) snack food sector, indicating continued investor interest in established brands like Utz. It does not provide broader industry trend analysis or competitive positioning.

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders may view the significant stake held by Neuberger Berman as a positive signal, potentially bolstering investor confidence in Utz Brands, Inc.'s stock.
• The passive nature of the investment suggests no immediate impact on corporate strategy or governance from this specific filing.

Key Dates

Keywords

Utz Brands, Neuberger Berman, Schedule 13G, beneficial ownership, common stock, institutional investor, passive investment, SEC filing