January 31, 2017

BP p.l.c. (BP) Upgraded by Societe Generale

BP p.l.c. (NYSE:BP) was upgraded by equities research analysts at Societe Generale from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating in a note issued to investors on Monday.

Several other research analysts have also recently issued reports on the company. Morgan Stanley reissued a “buy” rating on shares of BP p.l.c. in a research report on Thursday, January 19th. Jefferies Group LLC reaffirmed a “hold” rating and issued a $37.50 price objective on shares of BP p.l.c. in a research note on Wednesday, January 18th. Zacks Investment Research downgraded BP p.l.c. from a “hold” rating to a “sell” rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 17th. Vetr raised BP p.l.c. from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating and set a $39.64 price objective on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, January 11th. Finally, HSBC Holdings plc reaffirmed a “buy” rating on shares of BP p.l.c. in a research note on Wednesday, January 11th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and fourteen have given a buy rating to the company’s stock. BP p.l.c. currently has an average rating of “Buy” and an average target price of $36.81.




3 High-Yield Dividend Stocks to Buy in February

Looking for some stocks that will generate significant cash for your portfolio? Take a look at Ford Motors, Enterprise Products Partners, and National Grid.



Investors looking for high-yield stocks all pretty much want the same thing: A steady cash stream. Maybe that cash stream is used to supplement income, or maybe it's a way of using reinvested dividends to build wealth over very long time horizons. Either way, the only way one can do that is to find companies that can reliably pay that high yield dividend.

We asked three of our contributors to highlight a stock they see as a dividend stock to buy in February. They responded with automaker Ford Motors (NYSE:F), oil and gas logistics company Enterprise Products Partners (NYSE:EPD), and electricity transmission specialist National Grid (NYSE:NGG). Here's a quick run-down as to why investors should take a look at these high-yield stocks.




January 30, 2017

Johnson & Johnson Too Rich For You? Try This High-Yielding Pharma Stock Instead


Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer are both high-quality pharma blue chips with strong track records of dividend growth and market beating returns.

And while JNJ has the superior business fundementals, in the short to medium term, Pfizer has the stronger growth runway, which will likely make for superior total returns.

In addition, Pfizer is currently trading at a far more appealing valuation, making it the superior dividend stock to buy right now.

That being said, investors looking to add to existing positions in either stock should probably wait for a correction.

As well as keep in mind the big risks facing both pharma giants.

Big pharma stocks like Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) and Pfizer (NYSE:PFE) have long been favorites of dividend growth investors and for good reason. Their recession resistant business models and steady cash flows allow for generous, secure, and steadily growing payouts that generally result in solid market beating long-term performance.


Source: Seeking Alpha

Colgate-Palmolive Company (CL) is Downgraded by Citigroup

Colgate-Palmolive Company (CL) was Downgraded by Citigroup to ” Neutral”. Earlier the firm had a rating of “Buy ” on the company shares. Citigroup advised their Clients and Investors in a research report released on Jan 30, 2017.

Based on several research reports , Colgate-Palmolive Company was Initiated by Berenberg to “Hold” on Jan 25, 2017. Colgate-Palmolive Company was Resumed by Wells Fargo to “Market Perform” on Nov 15, 2016.

On the company’s financial health, Colgate-Palmolive Company reported $0.75 EPS for the quarter, based on the information available during the earnings call on Jan 27, 2017. Analyst had a consensus estimate of $0.75. The company had revenue of $3721.00 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3868.27 million. The company’s revenue was down -4.6 % compared to the same quarter last year.During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.73 EPS.




Diageo plc (DGE) Downgraded by Liberum Capital

Diageo plc (LON:DGE) was downgraded by equities researchers at Liberum Capital to a “sell” rating in a research report issued on Monday. They presently have a GBX 2,000 ($24.96) price objective on the stock, up from their prior price objective of GBX 1,900 ($23.71). Liberum Capital’s target price suggests a potential downside of 10.79% from the company’s previous close.

A number of other brokerages have also issued reports on DGE. Credit Suisse Group reissued an “outperform” rating and issued a GBX 2,370 ($29.58) price target on shares of Diageo plc in a research note on Tuesday, January 10th. Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (The) set a GBX 2,185 ($27.27) price target on Diageo plc and gave the stock a “neutral” rating in a research note on Friday, January 20th. Jefferies Group LLC reissued a “buy” rating and issued a GBX 2,300 ($28.70) price target on shares of Diageo plc in a research note on Sunday, November 27th. Shore Capital reissued a “buy” rating on shares of Diageo plc in a research note on Monday, January 9th. Finally, HSBC Holdings plc reissued a “buy” rating and issued a GBX 2,600 ($32.45) price target on shares of Diageo plc in a research note on Wednesday, November 30th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, ten have assigned a hold rating and thirteen have assigned a buy rating to the company’s stock. Diageo plc has an average rating of “Hold” and a consensus price target of GBX 2,279.25 ($28.44).



Source: Ticker Report

January 29, 2017

This Week's Most Significant Insider Trades: January 23-27, 2017

Mark Wallace Sells 4,500 Shares and E Hunter Harrison Sells 178,617 of Canadian Pacific Railway Limited (CP) Stock


Canadian Pacific Railway Limited (TSE:CP) (NYSE:CP) insider Mark Wallace sold 4,500 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction on Monday, January 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of C$199.64, for a total value of C$898,380.00.




Canadian Pacific Railway Limited (NYSE:CP) (TSE:CP) CEO E Hunter Harrison sold 178,617 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, January 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $150.81, for a total transaction of $26,937,229.77. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website.




January 28, 2017

Intel Corporation (INTC) Upgraded by Morgan Stanley

Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) was upgraded by equities researchers at Morgan Stanley from an “underweight” rating to an “equal weight” rating in a research note issued to investors on Friday.

A number of other analysts have also recently commented on the company. Credit Suisse Group lifted their price objective on Intel Corporation to $45.00 in a research report on Friday. Needham & Company LLC lifted their price target on Intel Corporation to $43.00 in a report on Friday. B. Riley restated a “buy” rating and issued a $44.00 price target on shares of Intel Corporation in a report on Friday. Mizuho restated an “in-line” rating on shares of Intel Corporation in a report on Friday. Finally, Cowen and Company restated a “market perform” rating on shares of Intel Corporation in a report on Friday. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seventeen have assigned a hold rating and thirty have given a buy rating to the stock. The stock currently has an average rating of “Buy” and a consensus target price of $40.19.




Ford Motor Company (F) Upgraded by Royal Bank Of Canada

Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) was upgraded by equities research analysts at Royal Bank Of Canada from a “sector perform” rating to an “outperform” rating in a report issued on Friday. The firm presently has a $14.00 target price on the auto manufacturer’s stock, up from their prior target price of $13.00. Royal Bank Of Canada’s target price points to a potential upside of 12.09% from the company’s current price.

Other equities research analysts have also issued reports about the company. Vetr lowered Ford Motor Company from a “strong-buy” rating to a “buy” rating and set a $13.12 price target on the stock. in a research report on Tuesday, November 22nd. Instinet increased their price target on Ford Motor Company from $14.00 to $14.50 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 21st. TheStreet upgraded Ford Motor Company from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating in a research report on Thursday, January 5th. Zacks Investment Research upgraded Ford Motor Company from a “strong sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 2nd. Finally, RBC Capital Markets restated a “hold” rating and set a $13.00 price target on shares of Ford Motor Company in a research report on Wednesday, January 4th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have assigned a hold rating, fourteen have given a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the stock. The company currently has an average rating of “Buy” and a consensus price target of $13.66.




Caterpillar, Inc. (CAT) Upgraded by Wells Fargo & Company

Caterpillar, Inc. (NYSE:CAT) was upgraded by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from a “market perform” rating to an “outperform” rating in a research report issued on Friday. The firm presently has a $118.00 price target on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company’s target price suggests a potential upside of 19.20% from the stock’s previous close.

A number of other equities research analysts have also weighed in on the stock. Barclays PLC boosted their price objective on shares of Caterpillar to $100.00 in a report on Friday. Standpoint Research downgraded shares of Caterpillar from a “hold” rating to a “sell” rating in a research note on Thursday. Longbow Research reaffirmed a “hold” rating on shares of Caterpillar in a research note on Wednesday. Credit Suisse Group reaffirmed an “outperform” rating and issued a $111.00 target price (up from $101.00) on shares of Caterpillar in a research note on Thursday, January 19th. Finally, CLSA reaffirmed an “outperform” rating on shares of Caterpillar in a research note on Tuesday, January 10th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have issued a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the company. Caterpillar has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $84.95.





Cummins: A Blue Chip Dividend Growth Stock On The Rebound


Historically, industrial dividend growth stocks such as engine maker Cummins (CMI) have done a great job of enriching long-term investors, especially if you’ve reinvested the dividends.

For example, Cummins has delivered an annualized total return of 15.4% since mid-1995, nearly doubling the S&P 500’s 8.5% annual total return.

However, Cummins has fallen on hard times in recent years while its share price has returned over 70% since early 2016, creating potential concerns for value-focused investors.

Let’s take a closer look under the hood of this venerable blue chip dividend stock to see if and when its business fortunes may turn around.

More importantly, find out if Cummins is an attractive dividend growth stock at today’s share price or whether investors would be better off waiting for a correction before initiating or adding to their positions.



Source: TalkMarkets

January 27, 2017

Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) is Upgraded by Citigroup

Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) was Upgraded by Citigroup to ” Neutral” and the brokerage firm has set the Price Target at $65. Earlier the firm had a rating of “Sell ” on the company shares. Citigroup advised their Clients and Investors in a research report released on Jan 27, 2017.

Based on several research reports , Company shares were Reiterated by BMO Capital Markets on Jan 27, 2017 to “Outperform”, Firm has raised the Price Target to $ 71 from a previous price target of $69 .Microsoft Corporation was Initiated by Wells Fargo to “Outperform” on Jan 11, 2017. Piper Jaffray Initiated Microsoft Corporation on Dec 22, 2016 to “Overweight”, Price Target of the shares are set at $80.Company shares were Upgraded by Goldman on Nov 17, 2016 to ” Buy”, Firm has raised the Price Target to $ 68 from a previous price target of $60 .Microsoft Corporation was Upgraded by Atlantic Equities to ” Neutral” on Nov 10, 2016.



Emerson Electric Company (EMR) Upgraded by Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

Emerson Electric Company (NYSE:EMR) was upgraded by equities research analysts at Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (The) from a “sell” rating to a “neutral” rating in a research note issued on Friday.

EMR has been the subject of several other research reports. HSBC Holdings plc initiated coverage on Emerson Electric Company in a research report on Friday, October 7th. They issued a “reduce” rating for the company. Vetr upgraded Emerson Electric Company from a “strong sell” rating to a “sell” rating and set a $47.31 price objective for the company in a research report on Monday, October 10th. Zacks Investment Research upgraded Emerson Electric Company from a “strong sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 19th. Bank of America Corporation upgraded Emerson Electric Company from an “underperform” rating to a “neutral” rating and lifted their price objective for the company from $45.00 to $60.00 in a research report on Monday, January 9th. Finally, Buckingham Research upgraded Emerson Electric Company from an “underperform” rating to a “neutral” rating in a research report on Tuesday, December 13th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, twenty have issued a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the company’s stock. The stock presently has an average rating of “Hold” and an average target price of $51.56..




Rogers Communication, Inc. (RCI) Upgraded by Canaccord

Rogers Communication, Inc. (NYSE:RCI) (TSE:RCI.B) was upgraded by investment analysts at Canaccord Genuity from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating in a research report issued on Thursday, The Fly reports.

A number of other equities research analysts have also issued reports on RCI. Zacks Investment Research lowered shares of Rogers Communication from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a report on Thursday, October 13th. Barclays PLC set a $40.00 price objective on shares of Rogers Communication and gave the company a “hold” rating in a research note on Friday, October 14th. RBC Capital Markets reiterated an “outperform” rating on shares of Rogers Communication in a research note on Tuesday, October 18th. Credit Suisse Group reiterated a “neutral” rating and issued a $54.00 price objective (up previously from $53.00) on shares of Rogers Communication in a research note on Tuesday, October 18th. Finally, Scotiabank reiterated an “outperform” rating and issued a $60.00 price objective on shares of Rogers Communication in a research note on Tuesday, October 18th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company. The company currently has a consensus rating of “Hold” and an average target price of $51.00.



January 26, 2017

3 Dividend Aristocrats to Buy for Income and Growth

These dividend-payers do a lot better than anemic growth



I’m kind of down on dividend stocks these days. That’s not because dividend stocks are a bad idea, it’s just that the market is about 20% overvalued, and the rush to replace meager bond income resulted in dividend stocks being bid up too far. So that’s why I prefer to stick with Dividend Aristocrats.

Dividend Aristocrats have a slight advantage over what might be characterized as your standard blue-chip stock, in that they have been raising dividends annually for over 25 years straight.

That speaks to a high degree of success in the business, of course, but it also speaks to ongoing growth. It means that free cash flow is likely expanding from year to year, thus permitting more of that cash flow to be paid out as a dividend.

So here are three Dividend Aristocrats that I think pay a reasonable dividend, but also have a shot at capital gains.



Source: InvestorPlace

January 25, 2017

Bill Gates’ Stock Portfolio: Every Holding Analyzed


Bill Gates is the richest man in the world. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has a massive $18.5 billion endowment.

That kind of wealth is something the vast majority of us can only dream of. However, there is one similarity between the everyday investor and the wealthiest person on the planet: We’re all looking for good stocks to buy and hold for the long-term.

Bill Gates is a personal friend of Warren Buffett, so it’s no surprise to see the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation take a similar approach to investing as the Oracle of Omaha.

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation owns several highly profitable companies, with sustainable competitive advantages. Many of the stocks also pay dividends to shareholders, and grow their dividend payouts over time.

Without further ado, here are the top 16 stocks held by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.



Source: TalkMarkets

ONEOK, Inc. (OKE) Downgraded by Citigroup Inc.

ONEOK, Inc. (NYSE:OKE) was downgraded by equities researchers at Citigroup Inc. from a “buy” rating to a “neutral” rating in a research report issued to clients and investors on Wednesday.

A number of other analysts also recently issued reports on OKE. Morgan Stanley downgraded shares of ONEOK from an “overweight” rating to an “equal weight” rating and boosted their price objective for the company from $48.00 to $50.00 in a report on Tuesday, October 4th. They noted that the move was a valuation call. Deutsche Bank AG upgraded shares of ONEOK from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating and boosted their target price for the company from $49.00 to $52.00 in a research report on Monday, October 10th. Jefferies Group LLC restated a “hold” rating and issued a $46.00 target price on shares of ONEOK in a research report on Sunday, October 16th. Credit Suisse Group restated a “neutral” rating and issued a $54.00 target price (up from $49.00) on shares of ONEOK in a research report on Sunday, December 4th. Finally, Barclays PLC cut shares of ONEOK from an “overweight” rating to an “equal weight” rating and boosted their target price for the company from $49.00 to $58.00 in a research report on Tuesday, December 13th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and thirteen have given a hold rating to the company. The stock has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $46.08.





HCP, Inc. (HCP) Upgraded at Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

HCP, Inc. (NYSE:HCP) was upgraded by investment analysts at Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (The) from a “neutral” rating to a “buy” rating in a research report issued on Wednesday.

Several other research firms have also weighed in on HCP. Vetr lowered HCP from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating and set a $30.75 price target on the stock. in a research report on Tuesday, December 20th. Barclays PLC reissued an “equal weight” rating and set a $32.00 price target on shares of HCP in a research report on Thursday, January 5th. RBC Capital Markets set a $30.00 target price on HCP and gave the company a “hold” rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 3rd. Zacks Investment Research upgraded HCP from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating and set a $41.00 target price on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, October 5th. Finally, Bank of America Corporation upgraded HCP from an “underperform” rating to a “neutral” rating and set a $38.50 target price on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, October 4th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have issued a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the company’s stock. HCP has an average rating of “Hold” and an average target price of $33.35.




January 24, 2017

Wal-Mart vs Target – Stock Faceoff: Giants Of Retail


On the back of a strong holiday season, retailers are back in the spotlight. To start out the new year, we want to take the time to circle back to two of our previous long ideas on some of the giants in the retail industry: Wal-Mart (WMT) and Target (TGT).

We recommended both of these companies to investors in 2015. So far, both picks have underperformed. WMT is up 1% since our call, vs. 14% for the S&P 500. TGT has dropped by 11% while the S&P is up 6%.

Both stocks still look sound, while earning our Attractive rating. Since these are two of the largest retailers in America, and direct competitors, it seems fair to ask: which is the better stock for investors in 2017?

In this article, we will judge Wal-Mart and Target on five key categories:

Profitability
Valuation
Cash Flow Yield
Corporate Governance
Growth Opportunities

Two stocks enter. One stock leaves. Who will emerge the champion in this faceoff of retail giants?



Source: ValueWalk

Apple Inc. (AAPL) Downgraded by Barclays PLC

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) was downgraded by Barclays PLC to an “equal weight” rating in a note issued to investors on Tuesday.

Several other equities analysts also recently commented on AAPL. Piper Jaffray Cos. reaffirmed a “buy” rating and set a $151.00 price objective on shares of Apple in a research note on Monday, September 26th. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an “outperform” rating and set a $123.00 price objective on shares of Apple in a research note on Monday, September 26th. Bank of America Corp. reaffirmed a “buy” rating and set a $125.00 price objective on shares of Apple in a research note on Tuesday, September 27th. Brean Capital reaffirmed a “buy” rating on shares of Apple in a research note on Wednesday, September 28th. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein reaffirmed an “outperform” rating and set a $125.00 price objective on shares of Apple in a research note on Wednesday, September 28th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have given a hold rating, forty-one have assigned a buy rating and three have assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. The company has an average rating of “Buy” and an average price target of $130.13.




January 23, 2017

Barclays PLC Downgrades Unilever plc (UL)

Unilever plc (NYSE:UL) was downgraded by stock analysts at Barclays PLC from an “overweight” rating to an “equal weight” rating in a research note issued to investors on Monday.

Other equities research analysts also recently issued research reports about the stock. Jefferies Group upgraded shares of Unilever plc from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating in a research note on Tuesday, December 13th. Zacks Investment Research upgraded shares of Unilever plc from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 16th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut Unilever plc from an “overweight” rating to a “neutral” rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 7th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the stock. Unilever plc currently has a consensus rating of “Hold” and an average price target of $46.00.




Qualcomm Inc. (QCOM) Downgraded by CLSA and Nomura

Qualcomm Inc. (NASDAQ:QCOM) was downgraded by stock analysts at CLSA from a “buy” rating to an “underperform” rating in a report issued on Monday.

Other equities research analysts have also recently issued research reports about the stock. Nomura cut shares of Qualcomm from a “buy” rating to a “neutral” rating and lowered their target price for the stock from $80.00 to $70.00 in a research note on Monday. Instinet cut shares of Qualcomm from a “buy” rating to a “neutral” rating and set a $70.00 target price on the stock. in a research note on Monday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reaffirmed an “overweight” rating and set a $70.00 target price (up previously from $63.00) on shares of Qualcomm in a research note on Monday, October 3rd. Cowen and Company reaffirmed an “outperform” rating and set a $74.00 target price on shares of Qualcomm in a research note on Monday, November 7th. Finally, Susquehanna began coverage on shares of Qualcomm in a research note on Tuesday, December 20th. They set a “positive” rating and a $80.00 target price on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twenty have issued a hold rating, seventeen have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company’s stock. The stock presently has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $67.68.




Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ) Downgraded by Wells Fargo & Co.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) was downgraded by investment analysts at Wells Fargo & Co. from an “outperform” rating to a “market perform” rating in a research report issued on Monday.

VZ has been the subject of several other reports. Jefferies Group reiterated a “hold” rating and issued a $53.00 price target on shares of Verizon Communications in a report on Friday, December 16th. Vetr downgraded Verizon Communications from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating and set a $52.38 price target for the company. in a report on Monday, January 2nd. Morgan Stanley reiterated an “overweight” rating and issued a $60.00 price target on shares of Verizon Communications in a report on Sunday, October 23rd. HSBC Holdings plc upgraded Verizon Communications from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating and set a $61.00 price target for the company in a report on Thursday. Finally, Cowen and Company reiterated a “market perform” rating and issued a $50.00 price target on shares of Verizon Communications in a report on Sunday, October 23rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twenty-three have given a hold rating and nine have issued a buy rating to the stock. Verizon Communications has an average rating of “Hold” and an average price target of $54.48.




January 22, 2017

This Week's Most Significant Insider Trades: January 16-20, 2017

Timothy D. Cook Sells 30,000 Shares of Apple Inc. (AAPL) Stock:


Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) CEO Timothy D. Cook sold 30,000 shares of Apple stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, January 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $120.00, for a total transaction of $3,600,000.00. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website






Harry A. Wolin Sells 33,928 Shares of Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (AMD) Stock:


Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (NASDAQ:AMD) SVP Harry A. Wolin sold 33,928 shares of Advanced Micro Devices stock in a transaction on Sunday, January 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $9.96, for a total transaction of $337,922.88. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 821,602 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,183,155.92. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website.

January 21, 2017

Target Drops 8% On Another Disappointing Report – An Update For Dividend Investors


Target (TGT) is a popular holding across many dividend growth investors’ portfolios.

After all, few companies can match Target’s impressive track record.

With over 100 years of operating history, Target has proven to be one of the most durable companies in the world.

The company also holds the title of being a dividend aristocrat, rewarding shareholders with 49 consecutive years of payout raises. You can view analysis on all of the dividend aristocrats here.

Despite Target’s impressive history, the company has fallen on hard times recently. Once fourth quarter results are finalized, Target’s revenue will have declined year-over-year for five consecutive quarters.

Target’s stock has disappointed investors as well, trailing the S&P 500 by more than 20% over the last year.

After dropping by 8% since revising its guidance earlier this week, Target’s shares offer investors a yield above 3.7% and trade for less than 14 times 2016 earnings – a large discount to the broader market.

Let’s take a closer look at the issues impacting Target to determine if the stock might make sense for our Conservative Retirees dividend portfolio, which seeks to preserve capital and deliver a very safe, above average dividend yield.



Source: TalkMarkets

January 20, 2017

Are You Undervaluing These 3 Biopharmas' Pipelines?

The drugs in research and development at Gilead Sciences, Johnson & Johnson, and AbbVie could reward investors with multiple blockbuster wins in the coming years.



Biopharma companies are continously investing in new development projects to offset the risks of competition and patent expirations, but sometimes, the nature of business' landscape can keep investors from seeing opportunities that may be lurking in research-and-development pipelines. For instance, while challenges facing Gilead Sciences (NASDAQ:GILD), Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ), and AbbVie (NYSE:ABBV) shouldn't be ignored, each has compelling products under development that could send shares soaring someday.




Berenberg Bank Upgrades National Grid PLC (NGG) to Buy

National Grid PLC (NYSE:NGG) was upgraded by equities research analysts at Berenberg Bank from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating in a report issued on Friday.

NGG has been the topic of several other reports. Zacks Investment Research upgraded National Grid PLC from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 3rd. Beaufort Securities restated a “buy” rating on shares of National Grid PLC in a research report on Friday, December 9th. Deutsche Bank AG restated a “hold” rating on shares of National Grid PLC in a research report on Friday, December 9th. Argus upgraded National Grid PLC from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating in a research report on Thursday, December 1st. They noted that the move was a valuation call. Finally, Investec upgraded National Grid PLC from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating in a research report on Friday, January 13th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the company’s stock. The stock currently has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $72.50.





Visa Inc. (V) Earns Outperform Rating from Analysts at Wedbush

Wedbush initiated coverage on shares of Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) in a research note issued on Friday. The brokerage set an “outperform” rating on the credit-card processor’s stock.

A number of other brokerages also recently weighed in on V. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. reiterated a “buy” rating and set a $96.00 price target on shares of Visa in a report on Monday, October 24th. Citigroup Inc. reiterated a “buy” rating and set a $92.00 price target on shares of Visa in a report on Monday, October 24th. Guggenheim downgraded Visa from a “buy” rating to a “neutral” rating and increased their price target for the stock from $90.00 to $97.00 in a report on Tuesday, October 25th. Stifel Nicolaus decreased their price target on Visa from $94.00 to $93.00 and set a “buy” rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, October 25th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada increased their price target on Visa from $87.00 to $89.00 and gave the stock an “outperform” rating in a report on Tuesday, October 25th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-eight have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. Visa presently has an average rating of “Buy” and an average price target of $91.65.



January 19, 2017

Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ) Rating Increased to Buy at HSBC

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) was upgraded by research analysts at HSBC from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating in a research report issued on Thursday. The firm currently has a $61.00 target price on the cell phone carrier’s stock. HSBC’s price target indicates a potential upside of 16.75% from the stock’s current price.

A number of other equities analysts also recently commented on VZ. Vetr downgraded Verizon Communications from a “strong-buy” rating to a “buy” rating and set a $58.40 target price for the company. in a research note on Thursday, September 22nd. Citigroup Inc. upgraded Verizon Communications from a “neutral” rating to a “buy” rating and lifted their target price for the company from $52.25 to $53.38 in a research note on Tuesday, January 3rd. Cowen and Company restated a “market perform” rating and issued a $50.00 target price on shares of Verizon Communications in a research note on Sunday, October 23rd. Morgan Stanley restated an “overweight” rating and issued a $60.00 target price on shares of Verizon Communications in a research note on Sunday, October 23rd. Finally, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. restated a “neutral” rating and issued a $51.00 target price on shares of Verizon Communications in a research note on Sunday, October 23rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twenty-one have issued a hold rating and ten have given a buy rating to the company’s stock. The stock has an average rating of “Hold” and an average price target of $54.48.



Source:  Ticker Report

National Oilwell Varco (NOV) Upgraded by Societe Generale to “Buy”

National Oilwell Varco (NYSE:NOV) was upgraded by analysts at Societe Generale from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating in a research report issued on Thursday. The firm currently has a $44.00 price objective on the oil and gas exploration company’s stock. Societe Generale’s target price would suggest a potential upside of 17.58% from the stock’s current price.

Several other equities analysts have also recently commented on NOV. Seaport Global Securities cut shares of National Oilwell Varco from a “neutral” rating to a “sell” rating and set a $34.00 target price for the company. in a research report on Thursday, December 1st. Johnson Rice cut shares of National Oilwell Varco from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research report on Friday, December 9th. RBC Capital Markets reiterated a “hold” rating and set a $47.00 price objective on shares of National Oilwell Varco in a research report on Friday, January 6th. Zacks Investment Research cut shares of National Oilwell Varco from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 18th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets set a $30.00 price objective on shares of National Oilwell Varco and gave the stock a “sell” rating in a research report on Thursday, January 12th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, twenty have given a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the company. The stock has an average rating of “Hold” and an average price target of $34.94.




Genuine Parts Co. (GPC) Upgraded to Neutral by Goldman Sachs Group Inc.

Genuine Parts Co. (NYSE:GPC) was upgraded by equities researchers at Goldman Sachs Group Inc. to a “neutral” rating in a research report issued to clients and investors on Thursday.

A number of other equities research analysts have also recently commented on GPC. Wedbush reissued a “neutral” rating on shares of Genuine Parts in a research report on Tuesday, January 3rd. Zacks Investment Research raised shares of Genuine Parts from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research report on Monday, December 5th. Atlantic Securities started coverage on shares of Genuine Parts in a research note on Wednesday, December 14th. They set a “neutral” rating and a $100.00 price target on the stock. Finally, Jefferies Group cut their price target on shares of Genuine Parts to $95.00 in a research note on Thursday, October 20th. Ten analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has issued a buy rating to the company. The company has a consensus rating of “Hold” and an average target price of $98.91.




The Walt Disney Co. (DIS) Upgraded by RBC Capital Markets to Outperform

The Walt Disney Co. (NYSE:DIS) was upgraded by investment analysts at RBC Capital Markets from a “sector perform” rating to an “outperform” rating in a research note issued to investors on Thursday. The brokerage currently has a $130.00 price objective on the entertainment giant’s stock, up from their previous price objective of $101.00. RBC Capital Markets’ price target would indicate a potential upside of 20.19% from the company’s current price.

A number of other equities research analysts also recently commented on the stock. Barclays PLC raised their price objective on shares of The Walt Disney to $99.00 in a research report on Thursday. Citigroup Inc. raised their price objective on shares of The Walt Disney from $117.00 to $124.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a research report on Wednesday. Needham & Company LLC restated a “hold” rating on shares of The Walt Disney in a research report on Wednesday. BMO Capital Markets cut shares of The Walt Disney from a “market perform” rating to an “underperform” rating and dropped their target price for the company from $90.00 to $88.00 in a report on Wednesday. Finally, Loop Capital reaffirmed a “buy” rating and issued a $117.00 target price (up from $113.00) on shares of The Walt Disney in a report on Tuesday. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have given a hold rating, nineteen have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. The company currently has an average rating of “Hold” and an average price target of $112.14.



Source: BBNS

Cummins Inc. (CMI) Raised to Buy at Longbow Research

Cummins Inc. (NYSE:CMI) was upgraded by research analysts at Longbow Research from a “neutral” rating to a “buy” rating in a note issued to investors on Thursday. The firm presently has a $165.00 target price on the stock. Longbow Research’s price target points to a potential upside of 17.94% from the stock’s current price.

A number of other analysts have also weighed in on the company. BMO Capital Markets reissued a “hold” rating and set a $150.00 price objective on shares of Cummins in a research note on Friday, January 13th. Barclays PLC raised Cummins from an “underweight” rating to an “equal weight” rating and raised their price target for the stock from $108.00 to $135.00 in a research note on Monday, January 9th. Vetr raised Cummins from a “sell” rating to a “buy” rating and set a $144.50 price target for the company in a research note on Monday, December 19th. Evercore ISI raised Cummins from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating and raised their price target for the stock from $113.00 to $144.00 in a research note on Monday, November 7th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus reaffirmed a “hold” rating and issued a $109.00 price target (up previously from $103.00) on shares of Cummins in a research note on Wednesday, November 2nd. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have issued a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the stock. Cummins presently has an average rating of “Hold” and an average price target of $124.26.




The Top Dividend Stocks to Buy for Safety in 2017

These dividend stocks not only throw off yield, but keep risk at bay as well



I like to scan over the universe of dividend stocks at the beginning of each year. I try to suss out which dividend stocks not only offer a healthy dividend greater than 4%, but might also be undervalued. That creates a list of dividend stocks to buy that may not only offer income, but offer safety and even nice upside as well.

The list of dividend stocks to buy is quickly narrowed, however, by the fact that the overall market is about 20% overvalued. So your typical blue-chip stocks that allegedly represent both income and safety, in my opinion, offer nothing of the kind.

One of the biggest misleads in the market is that you can invest in some legacy Big Pharma or consumer name that pays a 3% yield and things will be just fine. Making 3% is little consolation when one loses 20% in a correction.

Instead, we’re looking at a trio of investments that not only yields between 4% and 10%, but that should provide more safety than most other stocks throughout the rest of the year.



Source: InvestorPlace

January 18, 2017

3 Cheap Value Stocks to Buy Today

The market is expensive, but there are still some great value stocks available.



Value stocks come in all shapes and sizes, and value investors can have wildly different portfolios despite sharing the core idea that buying something for less than it's worth is the best way to beat the market. Growth plays an important role in value investing, as a company's intrinsic value depends not only on its current earnings power, but also on its growth potential.

We asked three of our contributors to each discuss a stock that they consider to be a great value in today's market. Here's why Walt Disney (NYSE:DIS), International Business Machines (NYSE:IBM), and Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) are cheap value stocks worth buying.




January 17, 2017

Coca-Cola’s Growth Potential & Market Share


Coca-Cola (KO) is the gold standard in the beverage industry.

The company is the largest seller of non-alcoholic beverages in the world.

Coca-Cola operates a tremendously strong business model. This is evident in their dividend history.

With 54 years of consecutive dividend increases and counting, Coca-Cola is a Dividend Aristocrat (25+ years of rising dividends) and a Dividend King (50+ years of rising dividends).
Coca-Cola is one of 18 businesses with 50+ years of consecutive dividend raises. Click here to download your free detailed Dividend Kings Excel Spreadsheet so you can see other businesses with strong and durable competitive advantages like Coca-Cola.

This level of dividend growth would not exist unless the company operated a recession resistant business model with distinct competitive advantages and a wide economic moat.

That being said, there are some that believe that Coca-Cola’s best days are behind it. Soda sales have dropped for 11 straight years. Fiscal 2015 fanned this flame, as investors watched total revenues fall 4% and operating profits drop by 10%.

In short, many believe that Coca-Cola is on the decline. This is not the case.

In fact, the company still has plenty of room to grow. The beverage industry is expected to increase by $300 billion between 2015 and 2020, and the company continues to hold dominant market share.


This article examines Coca-Cola’s growth potential and market share in detail.


Source: TalkMarkets

January 16, 2017

10 Dividend Growth Stocks That Simply Print Money

These 10 stocks collectively yield 3%, but thanks to fantastic cash generation, your yield down the road will be far more generous



History has taught us that dividend growth stocks are the absolute best way to grow both your income and wealth over time.

One such group of dividend stocks is known as the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats — S&P 500 companies that have increased their payouts for at least 25 consecutive years. Aristocrats have collectively outperformed the S&P 500 over time with less volatility.

Of course, to be able to pay secure and growing dividends, a company needs to have a strong competitive advantage that gives it good pricing power and allows it to generate strong free cash flow.

Today, we’re going to look at 10 great dividend growth stocks worth investigating. These are companies with strong businesses that consistently generate rivers of FCF that allow them to reward long-term dividend lovers. Each of these companies also scores well using our Dividend Safety Scores, which income investors can learn more about here.

Here they are, in order of free cash flow margin:



Source: InvestorPlace

January 15, 2017

Medtronic PLC (MDT) Dividend Stock Analysis


Medtronic PLC (NYSE:MDT) manufactures and sells device-based medical therapies worldwide. This dividend champion has paid dividends since 1977 and increased them for 39 years in a row.

The company’s last dividend increase was in June 2016 when the Board of Directors approved a 13.10% increase (1) to 43 cents/share. The company’s largest competitors include Baxter International Inc (NYSE:BAX), Becton Dickinson and Co (NYSE:BDX) and St Jude Medical Inc (NYSE:STJ).

Over the past decade this dividend growth stock (2) has delivered an annualized total return of 5% to its shareholders.




January 13, 2017

10 Best Stocks for Retirement Investors

The market has rallied strongly since the election, but investors shouldn’t forget about dividend-paying stocks



The stock market has rallied strongly since the election, and the Federal Reserve is officially on track to increase interest rates over time. Retirees are benefitting from higher stock portfolio values and the prospects for higher payouts in their bond portfolios.

But they shouldn’t forget about dividend-paying stocks. They could grow less appealing over time as bond payouts rise, but that could also mean opportunity as they lose favor. Below are 10 stocks that are laser focused on sustaining and growing their dividend yields over time.

And generally (and if not otherwise noted), the below companies also sport reasonable valuations when also taking their growth prospects into account.



Source: InvestorPlace

January 11, 2017

3M: A Buy And Hold Forever Dividend King


When it comes to dividend growth stocks, there are few better core holdings for one’s portfolio than the legendary dividend kings, companies that have raised their dividend for 50+ straight years. Investors can view all of the dividend kings here.

These are companies that have not just proven to have an ability to steadily grow throughout any kind of economic, interest rate, and political environment, but also have a very dividend-friendly corporate culture that endures periodic management changes.

3M (MMM), with 58 consecutive years of rising dividends, is one such dividend king, and we happen to hold the company in our Top 20 Dividend Stocks portfolio as well.

Let’s take a deep look at what makes up 3M’s secret sauce and if this is the type of company that deserves to be a core holding in almost any income growth portfolio.



Source: TalkMarkets


January 10, 2017

Let Realty Income Corp (O) Stock Pay Your Bills in 2017

Trump's surprise win caused a selloff, but now Realty Income is ready to rock



Regardless of your political preferences, the “Trump rally” that has pushed stocks higher since November has been a rip-roaring good time. No one ever complains about making money.

Let Realty Income Corp (O) Stock Pay Your Bills in 2017Of course, there are also no guarantees it will continue. The stock market is extraordinarily expensive after eight years of virtually uninterrupted bull market, and “The Donald’s” promises of reduced regulation and higher growth may prove harder to deliver in practice.

There are some pretty aggressive growth assumptions priced into the stock market right now, so any failure to deliver could result in a nasty correction … or even a full-blown bear market.

I’ve always been a big believer in taking a total return approach to investing, focusing on both capital gains and income. And with the capital gains looking a little more iffy than usual at current stock prices, current income in the form of dividends is more important than ever.



Continue to read at InvestorPlace

January 9, 2017

Cisco Systems, Inc. (CSCO) Stock Is More Attractive Than You Think

Sometimes, setting your sights on the moon can be a waste of time and money, and lead to lost opportunities



It’s no longer a real secret that Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO) is on the defensive in the router/switching market — a market that thrust Cisco to the head of the class in the late 90’s, and a market that Cisco still mostly dominates. On the flipside, investors more than a little familiar with CSCO stock also know the company’s newest priority isn’t the kind of heavy-hitting revenue generator its networking wares used to be.

That new focus? Software, and the Internet of Things in particular … a party to which Cisco showed up late, and an arena that it still doesn’t look like it’s perfectly ready to compete in compared to other players like General Electric Company (NYSE:GE).

Fear not, however. Not only is Cisco equipped well enough to remain relevant in a future where IoT is everything, some subtle clues recently dished out by key executives suggests the company “gets it” to a far greater degree than anyone’s giving it credit for.



Source: IvestorPlace

January 8, 2017

5 Stocks to Buy for a Big January

History says these picks are prone to outperform most others this month


Although the month of January is generally a good one for the market (with the S&P 500 averaging a 0.8% gain), the first month of the calendar year is an unusually good month for certain stocks to buy, year in and year out.

The reason? Well. the most plausible reason is that it’s got something to do with the foray into a new tax year, or perhaps cold weather ultimately spurs a bullish sentiment on these names.

Regardless of the reason, it happens. With that as the backdrop, here’s a closer look at the top five stocks to buy this month.

I’ve calculated the lifetime monthly returns for each stock using a proprietary charting platform, and each of them is in the habit of reliably making their way decidedly higher during January.



Source: IvestorPlace