does the lds church own pepsi

thorney

2 min read

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06-03-2025

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The question, "Does the LDS Church own Pepsi?" is a surprisingly common one, fueled by years of speculation and misunderstanding. The short answer is a resounding no. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often mistakenly referred to as the LDS Church) does not own PepsiCo or have any ownership stake in the company. This misconception likely stems from several factors, which we'll explore below.

The Roots of the Misunderstanding

Several factors contribute to the persistent belief that the LDS Church owns Pepsi. These include:

• The Church's History of Business Ventures: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a long history of involvement in various businesses, including farming, ranching, and even a significant investment portfolio. This involvement in the business world, while extensive, does not extend to owning major corporations like PepsiCo.

• Geographical Proximity and Overlap: In some areas, particularly in the Western United States where the Church has a strong presence, there may be businesses that serve LDS communities prominently. This proximity can lead to false associations. The presence of Pepsi products in these areas doesn't signify ownership.

• Misinformation and Urban Legends: Like many enduring myths, the idea of the Church owning Pepsi has spread through word-of-mouth and online forums. Without factual evidence, these rumors persist.

Understanding the Church's Financial Practices

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a large organization with significant financial resources. However, these resources are primarily managed through investment funds and various charitable efforts focused on its religious mission. These investments are diversified and aimed at long-term financial stability to support its global humanitarian and religious endeavors. Direct ownership of major multinational corporations is not a typical investment strategy for the Church.

Fact-Checking and Reliable Information

If you encounter claims stating the LDS Church owns Pepsi, it's crucial to verify the source's credibility. Look for reliable news sources, official Church statements, or financial reports. Always be wary of unverified information spread through social media or informal channels. The Church's official website is a reliable source for information regarding its finances and business activities.

Conclusion: Separating Fact from Fiction

The notion that the LDS Church owns Pepsi is a falsehood. While the Church has significant financial holdings, it doesn't own or control major corporations like PepsiCo. The misconception arises from a combination of the Church's past business activities, geographical proximity of Pepsi products to LDS communities, and the spread of misinformation. It's essential to rely on verifiable sources for accurate information about the Church's financial practices and investments.