David Kretzmann_

What's Behind Hansen's Smackdown?

A further U.S. slowdown is certainly possible, but I'd suggest reading this article:

www.pe.com/business/lo...

The beverage industry has typically done relatively well in recessionary times, and given energy drinks' popularity (especially Monster) I'd say Hansen would be somewhat steady if a further slowdown were to occur. And if/when the company's international popularity rises, it should offset the downside presented here in the U.S. Plus, Monster hasn't nearly saturated all its possible markets and still has a ways to go to as far as market share compared to Red Bull.