Since its founding in 1806, Colgate-Palmolive has grown into a leading player in the household and personal care industry. In addition to its namesake oral care line (which accounts for more than 40% of its total sales), the firm manufactures shampoos, shower gels, deodorants, and home care products sold in over 200 countries. International sales account for about 70% of its total business, including approximately 45% from emerging regions. It also owns specialty pet food maker Hill's (around one-fifth of sales), which sells a majority of its products through veterinarians and specialty pet retailers.

Investing in stocks is risky and each stock can have its own set of risks. Below is a list of risks that generally apply to all stocks:

Volatility: The performance of stocks can be volatile, with their value dropping as quickly as it can rise. You should be prepared to lose all the money you invest in stocks.

Liquidity: Some stocks may suffer from low liquidity which could prevent you buying or selling them at the price you want or expect.

Complexity: Specific stocks and ETFs may carry with them specific complex risks that are hard to understand. Do your own research and if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket: Putting all your money into a single type of investment is risky. Spreading your money across different investments makes you less dependent on any one to do well.

If you want to learn more about specific risks related to equity securities, please visit our dedicated equities disclosure page.