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Starbucks’ Momentum Score Spikes As Massachusetts Governor Defends Coffee Chains Against RFK Jr.’s Sugar Safety Probe

- March 16, 2026


Starbucks Corp. (NASDAQ:SBUX) is witnessing a dramatic surge in technical strength, with its Benzinga Edge momentum score leaping 129% week-on-week from 26.89 to 61.59.

This spike in relative strength comes as the coffee giant finds itself at the center of a high-stakes political battle over food safety and nutritional standards.

Political Shield And ‘Sugar Probe’

The momentum surge coincides with a public defense from Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey (D-Mass.), who hit back at Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Kennedy recently called on Starbucks and Dunkin’ to provide safety data regarding “sugar-laden” drinks, specifically questioning the health impact of iced coffees containing 115 grams of sugar.

Governor Healey responded with a “Come and Take It” inspired message on X, symbolically defending the Massachusetts-linked coffee culture against Kennedy’s proposed “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) reforms.

Kennedy has argued for a total overhaul of the “GRAS” system, which currently allows companies to self-certify the safety of food additives.

Technical Momentum Vs. Fundamental Value

Despite the regulatory scrutiny, SBUX shares have remained resilient, posting a 17.74% gain YTD and rising 21.06% over the last six months.

While Benzinga Edge’s Stock Rankings‘ momentum score indicates a significant percentile improvement in price movement and volatility, other metrics remain suppressed

The stark contrast between the surging momentum and a low value score of 14.74 suggests that while the stock is attracting rapid hot money interest, it remains expensive relative to its historical earnings and assets.