Does the LDS Church Own Pepsi?

In recent years, there has been speculation and discussion regarding whether or not The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) owns Pepsi or has any ownership stake in the beverage company. With various rumors and conflicting information circulating, it’s important to examine the facts and separate fact from fiction.

The LDS Church, like many religious organizations, has a long history of investments. One of its investment branches is Ensign Peak Advisors, which manages the church’s financial assets. However, despite popular belief or rumors, there is currently no evidence to suggest that the LDS Church or Ensign Peak Advisors own stocks in Pepsi or any other major beverage company.

This misconception may stem from confusion surrounding the LDS Church’s stance on caffeine. The Word of Wisdom, a health code followed by faithful members of the LDS Church, advises against the consumption of hot drinks (interpreted to mean coffee and tea), but it does not explicitly prohibit the consumption of caffeine. While members of the church are encouraged to prioritize their health and make wise choices, the consumption of caffeinated beverages, including soda, is generally considered a personal decision.

It is worth noting that Brigham Young University (BYU), which is owned and operated by the LDS Church, previously had restrictions on the sale and consumption of caffeinated beverages on campus. However, in 2012, BYU clarified its policy and began offering caffeinated soda options on campus. This change further emphasizes that the LDS Church does not categorically prohibit the consumption or ownership of caffeinated beverages.

In terms of investments, Ensign Peak Advisors’ portfolio is diversified and includes various assets such as stocks, bonds, and real estate. While the specific details of their investments may not be publicly disclosed, there is no credible evidence to suggest that the LDS Church has ownership stakes in major beverage companies like Pepsi.

It’s important to approach such rumors with caution, as misinformation can easily spread in today’s age of social media. While it’s understandable that people may be curious about the financial dealings of religious organizations, it is essential to rely on accurate and verified information rather than unsubstantiated claims from online sources.

In conclusion, there is no proof to support the claim that the LDS Church owns Pepsi or any significant stake in the company. The LDS Church’s stance on caffeine and caffeinated beverages is nuanced, but it does not prohibit their consumption or ownership. While the LDS Church has investments through Ensign Peak Advisors, the specifics of those investments are private and do not align with the rumors surrounding LDS Church ownership of Pepsi.