Dividend Increases Week 4 (Part 2)

 

In this article, I will go through the weekly dividend increases and cuts in popular and well-known stocks. (Member of The Dividend Champions or Canadian All-Star list)

 

Recently, 41 companies announced dividend increases. Note that no dividend cuts or suspensions were announced during this period. This is the first part of the weeks notifications.

 

The table below summarises the dividend change announcements.  The table shows the current dividend, the new dividend and the percentage increase (%). Dividends are shown on an annual basis and in US dollars unless otherwise stated. Yield is the new dividend yield of the most recent price, and Years is the years of consecutive dividend increases.

 

 

 

 

 

Black Hills Corporation (BKH)

Black Hills Corporation, through its subsidiaries, operates as an electric and natural gas utility company in the United States. It operates through four segments: Electric Utilities, Gas Utilities, Power Generation, and Mining. The Electric Utilities segment generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to approximately 216,000 electric customers in Colorado, South Dakota, and Wyoming, as well as provides electrical system construction services to large industrial customers. Black Hills Corporation was incorporated in 1941 and is headquartered in Rapid City, South Dakota.

On January 26, BKH declared a quarterly dividend of $0.595 per share.

This is a 75.0% increase from prior dividend of $0.34. 

Payable March 1 for shareholders of record February 14, ex-div February 11.

 

NiSource Inc. (NI)

NiSource Inc., an energy holding company, operates as a regulated natural gas and electric utility company in the United States. The company operates through two segments, Gas Distribution Operations and Electric Operations. It provides natural gas services and transportation for residential, commercial, and industrial customers; generates, transmits, and distributes electricity; and wholesale and transmission transaction services. NiSource Inc. was founded in 1847 and is headquartered in Merrillville, Indiana.

On January 26, NI declared a quarterly dividend of $0.235 per share.

This is a 6.8% increase from prior dividend of $0.22.  

Payable February 18 for shareholders of record February 8, ex-div February 7.

 

Bankwell Financial Group, Inc. (BWFG)

Bankwell Financial Group, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Bankwell Bank that provides various banking services for commercial and consumer customers. It offers various traditional depository products, including checking, savings, money market, and certificates of deposit. Bankwell Financial Group, Inc. was founded in 2002 and is headquartered in New Canaan, Connecticut.

On January 26, BWFG declared a quarterly dividend of $0.20 per share.

This is an 11.1% increase from prior dividend of $0.20. 

Payable February 24 for shareholders of record February 14, ex-div February 11.

 

Tractor Supply Company (TSCO)

Tractor Supply Company operates as a rural lifestyle retailer in the United States. The company offers a selection of merchandise, including equine, livestock, pet, and small animal products necessary for their health, care, growth, and containment; hardware, truck, towing, and tool products; seasonal products, such as heating products, lawn and garden items, power equipment, gifts, and toys; work/recreational clothing and footwear; and maintenance products for agricultural and rural use. The company was founded in 1938 and is based in Brentwood, Tennessee.

On January 27, TSCO declared a quarterly dividend of $0.92 per share.

This is a 76.9% increase from prior dividend of $0.52. 

Payable March 8 for shareholders of record February 21, ex-div February 18.

 

Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. (AIT)

Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. distributes industrial products in North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. It operates through two segments, Service Center Based Distribution, and Fluid Power & Flow Control. Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. was founded in 1923 and is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio.

On January 27, AIT declared a quarterly dividend of $0.34 per share.

This is a 3.0% increase from prior dividend of $0.33. 

Payable February 28 for shareholders of record February 15, ex-div February 14.

 

 

Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. (SASR)

Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Sandy Spring Bank that provides commercial and retail banking, mortgage, private banking, and trust services to individuals and businesses. The company operates through three segments: Community Banking, Insurance, and Investment Management. Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. was founded in 1868 and is headquartered in Olney, Maryland.

On January 27, SASR declared a quarterly dividend of $0.34 per share.

This is a 6.3% increase from prior dividend of $0.32. 

Payable February 28 for shareholders of record February 18, ex-div February 17.

 

Comcast Corporation (CMCSA)

Comcast Corporation operates as a media and technology company worldwide. It operates through Cable Communications, Cable Networks, Broadcast Television, Filmed Entertainment, Theme Parks, and Sky segments. Comcast Corporation was founded in 1963 and is headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

On January 27, CMCSA declared a quarterly dividend of $0.27 per share.

This is a 8.0% increase from prior dividend of $0.25. 

Payable April 27 for shareholders of record April 6, ex-div April 5.

 

West Bancorporation, Inc. (WTBA)

West Bancorporation, Inc. operates as the financial holding company for West Bank that provides community banking and trust services to individuals and small- to medium-sized businesses in the United States. It accepts various deposit products, including checking, savings, and money market accounts, as well as time certificates of deposit. West Bancorporation, Inc. was founded in 1893 and is headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa.

On January 27, WTBA declared a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share.

This is a 4.2% increase from prior dividend of $0.24. 

Payable February 23 for shareholders of record February 9 ex-div February 8.

 

SJW Group (SJW)

SJW Group, through its subsidiaries, provides water utility services in the United States. It engages in the production, purchase, storage, purification, distribution, wholesale, and retail sale of water and wastewater services. SJW Group was incorporated in 1985 and is headquartered in San Jose, California.

On January 27, SJW declared a quarterly dividend of $0.364 per share.

This is a 5.9% increase from prior dividend of $0.34. 

Payable March 1 for shareholders of record February 7, ex-div February 4.

 

Arrow Financial Corporation (AROW)

Arrow Financial Corporation, a bank holding company, provides commercial and consumer banking, and financial products and services. The company’s deposit products include demand deposits, interest-bearing checking accounts, savings deposits, time deposits, and other time deposits. Arrow Financial Corporation was founded in 1851 and is headquartered in Glens Falls, New York.

On January 27, AROW declared a quarterly dividend of $0.27 per share.

This is a 3.8% increase from prior dividend of $0.26. 

Payable March 15 for shareholders of record March 1, ex-div February 28.

 

 

Westamerica Bancorporation (WABC)

Westamerica Bancorporation operates as a bank holding company for the Westamerica Bank that provides various banking products and services to individual and commercial customers. The company accepts various deposit products, including retail savings and checking accounts, as well as certificates of deposit. Westamerica Bancorporation was founded in 1972 and is headquartered in San Rafael, California.

On January 27, WABC declared a quarterly dividend of $0.42 per share.

This is a 2.4% increase from prior dividend of $0.41. 

Payable February 18 for shareholders of record February 7, ex-div February 4.

 

CMS Energy Corporation (CMS)

CMS Energy Corporation operates as an energy company primarily in Michigan. The company operates through four segments: Electric Utility, Gas Utility, Enterprises, and EnerBank. CMS Energy Corporation was founded in 1987 and is headquartered in Jackson, Michigan.

On January 27, CMS declared a quarterly dividend of $0.46 per share.

This is a 5.7% increase from prior dividend of $0.435. 

Payable February 28 for shareholders of record February 11, ex-div February 10.

 

Polaris Inc. (PII)

Polaris Inc. designs, engineers, manufactures, and markets power sports vehicles worldwide. It operates in five segments: ORV/Snowmobiles, Motorcycles, Global Adjacent Markets, Aftermarket, and Boats. Polaris Inc. was founded in 1954 and is headquartered in Medina, Minnesota.

On January 27, PII declared a quarterly dividend of $0.64 per share.

This is a 1.6% increase from prior dividend of $0.63. 

Payable March 15 for shareholders of record March 1, ex-div February 28.

 

Wintrust Financial Corporation (WTFC)

Wintrust Financial Corporation operates as a financial holding company. It operates in three segments: Community Banking, Specialty Finance, and Wealth Management. The Community Banking segment offers non-interest bearing deposits, non-brokered interest-bearing transaction accounts, and savings and domestic time deposits; home equity, consumer, and real estate loans; safe deposit facilities; and automatic teller machine (ATM), online and mobile banking, and other services. Wintrust Financial Corporation was founded in 1991 and is headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois.

On January 27, WTFC declared a quarterly dividend of $0.34 per share.

This is a 9.7% increase from prior dividend of $0.31. 

Payable February 24 for shareholders of record February 10, ex-div February 9.

 

Simmons First National Corporation (SFNC)

Simmons First National Corporation operates as the holding company for Simmons Bank that provides banking and other financial products and services to individuals and businesses. Simmons First National Corporation was founded in 1903 and is headquartered in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

On January 27, SFNC declared a quarterly dividend of $0.19 per share.

This is a 5.6% increase from prior dividend of $0.18.  

Payable April 4 for shareholders of record March 15, ex-div March 14.

 

 

Franco-Nevada Corporation (FNV)

Franco-Nevada Corporation operates as a gold-focused royalty and stream company in the United States, Latin America, Canada, Australia, Europe, and Africa, and internationally. It operates through two segment, Mining and Energy. The company manages its portfolio with a focus on precious metals, such as gold, silver, and platinum group metals; and energy comprising oil, gas, and natural gas liquids. The company was incorporated in 2007 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

On January 27, FNV declared a quarterly dividend of $0.32 per share.

This is a 6.7% increase from prior dividend of $0.30. 

Payable March 31 for shareholders of record March 17, ex-div March 16.

 

Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corporation (BAH)

Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corporation provides management and technology consulting, analytics, engineering, digital, mission operations, and cyber solutions to governments, corporations, and not-for-profit organizations in the United States and internationally. Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corporation was founded in 1914 and is headquartered in McLean, Virginia.

On January 28, BAH declared a quarterly dividend of $0.43 per share.

This is a 16.2% increase from prior dividend of $0.37. 

Payable March 2 for shareholders of record February 11, ex-div February 10.

 

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (CHD)

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. develops, manufactures, and markets household, personal care, and specialty products in the United States and internationally. It operates in three segments: Consumer Domestic, Consumer International, and Specialty Products Division. The company was founded in 1846 and is headquartered in Ewing, New Jersey.

On January 28, CHD declared a quarterly dividend of $0.2625 per share.

This is a 4.0% increase from prior dividend of $0.2525. 

Payable March 1 for shareholders of record February 15, ex-div February 14.

 

Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (NXST)

Nexstar Media Group, Inc., a television broadcasting and digital media company, focuses on the acquisition, development, and operation of television stations and interactive community websites and digital media services in the United States. The company offers free programming to television viewing audiences. Nexstar Media Group, Inc. was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in Irving, Texas.

On January 28, NXST declared a quarterly dividend of $0.90 per share.

This is a 28.6% increase from prior dividend of $0.70. 

Payable February 28 for shareholders of record February 11, ex-div February 10.

 

GATX Corporation (GATX)

GATX Corporation (NYSE: GATX) strives to be recognized as the finest railcar leasing company in the world by our customers, our shareholders, our employees and the communities where we operate. As the leading global railcar lessor, GATX has been providing quality railcars and services to its customers for more than 122 years. GATX has been headquartered in Chicago, Illinois since its founding in 1898.

On January 28, GATX declared a quarterly dividend of $0.52 per share.

This is a 4.0% increase from prior dividend of $0.50. 

Payable March 31 for shareholders of record February 25, ex-div February 24.

 

 

Cincinnati Financial Corporation (CINF)

Cincinnati Financial Corporation, together with its subsidiary, provides property casualty insurance products in the United States. The company operates through five segments: Commercial Lines Insurance, Personal Lines Insurance, Excess and Surplus Lines Insurance, Life Insurance, and Investments. Cincinnati Financial Corporation was founded in 1950 and is headquartered in Fairfield, Ohio.

On January 28, CINF declared a quarterly dividend of $0.69 per share.

This is a 9.5% increase from prior dividend of $0.63. 

Payable April 15 for shareholders of record March 18, ex-div March 17.

 

Dividend Increases Week 4 (Part 1)

 

In this article, I will go through the weekly dividend increases and cuts in popular and well-known stocks. (Member of The Dividend Champions or Canadian All-Star list)

 

Recently, 41 companies announced dividend increases. Note that no dividend cuts or suspensions were announced during this period. This is the first part of the weeks notifications.

 

The table below summarises the dividend change announcements.  The table shows the current dividend, the new dividend and the percentage increase (%). Dividends are shown on an annual basis and in US dollars unless otherwise stated. Yield is the new dividend yield of the most recent price, and Years is the years of consecutive dividend increases.

 

 

 

 

 

Franklin Electric Co., Inc. (FELE)

Franklin Electric Co., Inc., together with its subsidiaries, designs, manufactures, and distributes water and fuel pumping systems worldwide. It operates in three segments: Water Systems, Fueling Systems, and Distribution. Franklin Electric Co., Inc. was founded in 1944 and is headquartered in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

On January 24, FELE declared a quarterly dividend of $0.195 per share.

This is an 11.4% increase from prior dividend of $0.175. 

Payable February 11 for shareholders of record February 3, ex-div February 2.

 

Independent Bank Corporation (IBCP)

Independent Bank Corporation operates as the bank holding company for Independent Bank that provides various banking services to individuals and businesses. The company offers checking and savings accounts, commercial lending, direct and indirect consumer financing, mortgage lending, and safe deposit box services, as well as automatic teller machine, and Internet and mobile banking services. It also provides title insurance, insurance brokerage, and investment services. Independent Bank Corporation was founded in 1864 and is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

On January 24, IBCP declared a quarterly dividend of $0.22 per share.

This is a 4.8% increase from prior dividend of $0.21. 

Payable February 15 for shareholders of record February 4, ex-div February 3.

 

Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (ADM)

Archer-Daniels-Midland Company procures, transports, stores, processes, and merchandises agricultural commodities, products, and ingredients in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Ag Services and Oilseeds, Carbohydrate Solutions, and Nutrition. It procures, stores, cleans, and transports agricultural raw materials, such as oilseeds, corn, wheat, milo, oats, and barley. The company was founded in 1902 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

On January 25, ADM declared a quarterly dividend of $0.40 per share.

This is an 8.1% increase from prior dividend of $0.37. 

Payable March 1 for shareholders of record February 8, ex-div February 7.

 

Cambridge Bancorp (CATC)

Cambridge Bancorp operates as the bank holding company for Cambridge Trust Company that provides commercial and consumer banking, and investment management and trust services. The company accepts various deposits, such as checking and savings accounts, certificates of deposit, money market accounts, trust accounts, individual retirement accounts, and time and demand deposits. Cambridge Bancorp was founded in 1890 and is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

On January 25, CATC declared a quarterly dividend of $0.64 per share.

This is a 4.9% increase from prior dividend of $0.61. 

Payable February 24 for shareholders of record February 10, ex-div February 9.

 

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NSC)

Norfolk Southern Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the rail transportation of raw materials, intermediate products, and finished goods in the United States. The company transports industrial products, including agriculture, forest and consumer products, chemicals, and metals and construction materials; and coal, automobiles, and automotive parts. It also transports overseas freight through various Atlantic and Gulf Coast ports; and provides commuter passenger services. As of December 31, 2020, the company operated approximately 19,300 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia. Norfolk Southern Corporation was incorporated in 1980 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

On January 25, NSC declared a quarterly dividend of $1.24 per share.

This is a 13.8% increase from prior dividend of $1.09. 

Payable February 21 for shareholders of record February 4, ex-div February 3.

 

 

Canadian National Railway Company (TSE:CNR)

Canadian National Railway Company, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the rail and related transportation business. Its portfolio of goods includes petroleum and chemicals, grain and fertilizers, coal, metals and minerals, forest products, intermodal, and automotive products serving exporters, importers, retailers, farmers, and manufacturers. The company operates a network of 19,500 route miles of track spanning Canada and the United States. It also provides vessels and docks, transloading and distribution, automotive logistics, and freight forwarding and transportation management services. The company was founded in 1919 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.

On January 25, CNR declared a quarterly dividend of C$0.7325 per share.

This is a 19.1% increase from prior dividend of C$0.615. 

Payable March 31 for shareholders of record March 10, ex-div March 9.

 

Premier Financial Corp. (PFC)

Premier Financial Corp., through its subsidiaries, provides various banking services. It offers various demand, checking, money market, certificates of deposits, certificates of deposit account registry service, and savings accounts; and investment products. The company also provides residential real estate loans, commercial real estate loans, commercial loans, home improvement and home equity loans, and consumer loans. Premier Financial Corp. was incorporated in 1995 and is headquartered in Defiance, Ohio.

On January 25, PFC declared a quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share.

This is a 7.1% increase from prior dividend of $0.28. 

Payable February 18 for shareholders of record February 11, ex-div February 10.

 

Cadence Bank (CADE)

Cadence Bank provides various banking and financial solutions for consumers, businesses, and corporations. The company's products and services include consumer banking, consumer loans, mortgages, home equity lines and loans, credit cards, commercial and business banking, treasury management, specialized and asset-based lending, commercial real estate, equipment financing, correspondent banking, SBA lending, foreign exchange, wealth management, investment and trust, financial planning, retirement plan management, and personal and business insurance services. It operates approximately 400 branch locations across the South, Midwest, and Texas. The company was founded in 1876 and is based in Tupelo, Mississippi.

On January 25, CADE declared a quarterly dividend of $0.22 per share.

This is a 10.0% increase from prior dividend of $0.20. 

Payable April 1 for shareholders of record March 15, ex-div March 14.

 

Washington Federal, Inc. (WAFD)

Washington Federal, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Washington Federal Bank, National Association that provides lending, depository, insurance, and other banking services in the United States. The company offers deposit products, including business and personal checking accounts, and term certificates of deposit, as well as money market accounts and passbook savings accounts. It also provides single-family residential, construction, land acquisition and development, consumer lot, multi-family residential, commercial and industrial, commercial real estate, home equity, business and consumer loans. Washington Federal, Inc. was founded in 1917 and is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

On January 25, WAFD declared a quarterly dividend of $0.24 per share.

This is a 4.3% increase from prior dividend of $0.23. 

Payable February 17 for shareholders of record February 4, ex-div February 3.

 

Anthem, Inc. (ANTM)

Anthem, Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates as a health benefits company in the United States. It operates through four segments: Commercial & Specialty Business, Government Business, IngenioRx, and Other. Anthem, Inc. was founded in 1944 and is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana.

On January 26, ANTM declared a quarterly dividend of $1.28 per share.

This is a 13.3% increase from prior dividend of $1.13. 

Payable March 25 for shareholders of record March 10, ex-div March 9.

 

 

MarketAxess Holdings Inc. (MKTX)

MarketAxess Holdings Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates an electronic trading platform for institutional investor and broker-dealer firms worldwide. It offers the access to global liquidity in U.S. investment-grade bonds, U.S. high-yield bonds, U.S. Treasuries, municipal bonds, emerging market debt, Eurobonds, and other fixed income securities. MarketAxess Holdings Inc. was incorporated in 2000 and is headquartered in New York, New York.

On January 26, MKTX declared a quarterly dividend of $0.70 per share.

This is a 6.1% increase from prior dividend of $0.66. 

Payable February 23 for shareholders of record February 9, ex-div February 8.

 

Kimberly-Clark Corporation (KMB)

Kimberly-Clark Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and markets personal care and consumer tissue products worldwide. It operates through three segments: Personal Care, Consumer Tissue, and K-C Professional. Kimberly-Clark Corporation was founded in 1872 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

On January 26, MKTX declared a quarterly dividend of $1.16 per share.

This is a 1.8% increase from prior dividend of $1.14. 

Payable April 4 for shareholders of record March 4, ex-div March 3.

 

Home BancShares, Inc. (HOMB)

Home Bancshares, Inc. (Conway, AR) operates as the bank holding company for Centennial Bank that provides commercial and retail banking, and related financial services to businesses, real estate developers and investors, individuals, and municipalities. Its deposit products include checking, savings, NOW, demand, and money market accounts, as well as certificates of deposit. The company was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Conway, Arkansas.

On January 26, HOMB declared a quarterly dividend of $0.165 per share.

This is a 17.9% increase from prior dividend of $0.14. 

Payable March 9 for shareholders of record February 16, ex-div February 15.

 

Independent Bank Group, Inc. (IBTX)

Independent Bank Group, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Independent Bank that provides various commercial banking products and services to businesses, professionals, and individuals in the United States. It accepts various deposit products, including checking and savings accounts, demand deposits, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit. Independent Bank Group, Inc. was founded in 2002 and is headquartered in McKinney, Texas.

On January 26, IBTX declared a quarterly dividend of $0.38 per share.

This is a 5.6% increase from prior dividend of $0.36. 

Payable February 17 for shareholders of record February 10, ex-div February 9.

 

Republic Bancorp, Inc. (RBCAA)

Republic Bancorp, Inc., a financial holding company, provides various banking products and services in the United States. It operates in five segments: Traditional Banking, Warehouse, Mortgage Banking, Tax Refund Solutions, and Republic Credit Solutions. The company accepts demand, money market accounts, savings, individual retirement accounts, time, brokered, and other certificates of deposit. Republic Bancorp, Inc. was incorporated in 1974 and is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.

On January 26, RBCAA declared a quarterly dividend of $0.341 per share.

This is a 10.7% increase from prior dividend of $0.308. 

Payable April 15 for shareholders of record March 18, ex-div March 17.

 

 

Intel Corporation (INTC)

Intel Corporation designs, manufactures, and sells essential technologies for the cloud, smart, and connected devices for retail, industrial, and consumer uses worldwide. The company operates through DCG, IOTG, Mobileye, NSG, PSG, CCG, and All Other segments. The company was founded in 1968 and is headquartered in Santa Clara, California.

On January 26, INTC declared a quarterly dividend of $0.365 per share.

This is a 5.2% increase from prior dividend of $0.347. 

Payable March 1 for shareholders of record February 7, ex-div February 4.

 

Chevron Corporation (CVX)

Chevron Corporation, through its subsidiaries, engages in integrated energy, chemicals, and petroleum operations worldwide. The company operates in two segments, Upstream and Downstream. The company was formerly known as ChevronTexaco Corporation and changed its name to Chevron Corporation in 2005. Chevron Corporation was founded in 1879 and is headquartered in San Ramon, California.

On January 26, CVX declared a quarterly dividend of $1.42 per share.

This is a 6.0% increase from prior dividend of $1.34. 

Payable March 10 for shareholders of record February 16, ex-div February 15.

 

Unitil Corporation (UTL)

Unitil Corporation, a public utility holding company, engages in the distribution of electricity and natural gas. It operates through three segments: Utility Gas Operations, Utility Electric Operations, and Non-Regulated. Unitil Corporation was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in Hampton, New Hampshire.

On January 26, UTL declared a quarterly dividend of $0.39 per share.

This is a 2.6% increase from prior dividend of $0.38. 

Payable February 25 for shareholders of record February 11, ex-div February 10.

 

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (AJG)

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., together with its subsidiaries, provides insurance brokerage, consulting, and third party claims settlement and administration services in the United States, Australia, Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean, New Zealand, India, and the United Kingdom. Its Brokerage segment consists of retail and wholesale insurance brokerage operations. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. was founded in 1927 and is headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois.

On January 26, AJG declared a quarterly dividend of $0.51 per share.

This is a 6.3% increase from prior dividend of $0.48. 

Payable March 25 for shareholders of record March 4, ex-div March 3.

 

California Water Service Group (CWT)

California Water Service Group, through its subsidiaries, provides water utility and other related services in California, Washington, New Mexico, and Hawaii. It is involved in the production, purchase, storage, treatment, testing, distribution, and sale of water for domestic, industrial, public, and irrigation uses, as well as for fire protection.  California Water Service Group was founded in 1926 and is headquartered in San Jose, California.

On January 26, AJG declared a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share.

This is an 8.7% increase from prior dividend of $0.23. 

Payable February 18 for shareholders of record February 7, ex-div February 4.

 

Notable Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades for Week of January 24 2022 (Part 2)

 

Upgrades:

 

Williams-Sonoma (NYSE:WSM) was upgraded by investment analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from a “sector perform” rating to an “outperform” rating in a report released on Thursday, The Fly reports.

Several other research firms also recently commented on WSM. Loop Capital raised shares of Williams-Sonoma from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating and set a $205.00 price target on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, December 22nd. Telsey Advisory Group raised their target price on shares of Williams-Sonoma from $220.00 to $250.00 and gave the company an “outperform” rating in a research report on Friday, November 19th. Wedbush cut their target price on shares of Williams-Sonoma from $250.00 to $190.00 in a research report on Wednesday, January 5th. Wells Fargo & Company cut their target price on shares of Williams-Sonoma from $205.00 to $180.00 and set an “equal weight” rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, January 5th. Finally, Citigroup cut their target price on shares of Williams-Sonoma from $225.00 to $165.00 and set a “neutral” rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, January 18th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, ten have assigned a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Williams-Sonoma currently has an average rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $179.35. Read more …

 

Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) was upgraded by stock analysts at New Street Research from a "sell" rating to a "neutral" rating in a report released on Friday, Briefing.com reports. The brokerage currently has a $165.00 price target on the iPhone maker's stock. New Street Research's price objective points to a potential upside of 3.63% from the stock's current price.

A number of other equities analysts have also issued reports on the stock. Morgan Stanley raised their price target on shares of Apple from $200.00 to $210.00 and gave the stock an "overweight" rating in a research report on Friday. Raymond James upped their target price on shares of Apple from $185.00 to $190.00 and gave the stock an "outperform" rating in a research note on Friday. Credit Suisse Group initiated coverage on Apple in a report on Friday, October 29th. They issued a "neutral" rating and a $150.00 price objective for the company. Cowen increased their price objective on Apple from $180.00 to $200.00 in a research report on Friday. Finally, Piper Sandler raised their price target on Apple from $175.00 to $200.00 and gave the company an "overweight" rating in a research report on Friday, January 14th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-four have given a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of "Buy" and a consensus price target of $186.59. Read more …

 

Crown Castle International (NYSE:CCI) was upgraded by investment analysts at Raymond James to an "outperform" rating in a research report issued on Friday, Stock Target Advisor reports. The firm currently has a $184.00 price objective on the real estate investment trust's stock. Raymond James' price objective points to a potential upside of 7.24% from the stock's previous close.

Several other equities analysts have also issued reports on the stock. Citigroup lifted their target price on shares of Crown Castle International from $200.00 to $204.00 in a report on Thursday. Morgan Stanley lowered their target price on shares of Crown Castle International from $208.00 to $207.00 and set an "overweight" rating for the company in a report on Wednesday. Wolfe Research initiated coverage on shares of Crown Castle International in a report on Wednesday, October 13th. They set an "underperform" rating and a $162.00 target price for the company. Credit Suisse Group upgraded shares of Crown Castle International from a "neutral" rating to an "outperform" rating and lifted their target price for the company from $192.00 to $195.00 in a report on Tuesday, October 19th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group lowered shares of Crown Castle International from a "buy" rating to a "hold" rating and lowered their target price for the company from $226.00 to $203.00 in a report on Monday, January 10th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the company's stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Crown Castle International has an average rating of "Buy" and an average target price of $201.38. Read more …

 

 

General Dynamics (NYSE:GD) was upgraded by equities research analysts at Wolfe Research to a "peer perform" rating in a research report issued to clients and investors on Friday, Stock Target Advisor reports.

Other equities analysts have also issued reports about the stock. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price objective on shares of General Dynamics from $230.00 to $235.00 and gave the stock an "overweight" rating in a report on Monday, January 10th. Susquehanna Bancshares boosted their price objective on shares of General Dynamics from $225.00 to $240.00 and gave the stock a "positive" rating in a report on Thursday, October 28th. Susquehanna boosted their price objective on shares of General Dynamics from $225.00 to $240.00 and gave the stock a "positive" rating in a report on Thursday, October 28th. Finally, UBS Group upgraded shares of General Dynamics from a "neutral" rating to a "buy" rating and boosted their price objective for the stock from $220.00 to $245.00 in a report on Tuesday, December 14th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the company's stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of "Buy" and a consensus price target of $216.92. Read more …

 

Notable Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades for Week of January 24 2022 (Part 1)

 

Upgrades:

 

Comcast (NASDAQ:CMCSA) was upgraded by analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from a “sector perform” rating to an “outperform” rating in a report issued on Monday, The Fly reports. The brokerage presently has a $60.00 price target on the cable giant’s stock. Royal Bank of Canada’s price target would indicate a potential upside of 20.65% from the stock’s current price.

A number of other equities analysts have also recently commented on the company. Loop Capital decreased their target price on Comcast from $71.00 to $67.00 and set a “buy” rating on the stock in a report on Monday, November 22nd. Citigroup cut Comcast from a “buy” rating to a “neutral” rating and decreased their target price for the stock from $60.00 to $53.00 in a report on Wednesday, December 15th. Barclays decreased their target price on Comcast from $65.00 to $60.00 and set an “overweight” rating on the stock in a report on Monday, November 1st. Macquarie cut Comcast from an “outperform” rating to a “neutral” rating and decreased their target price for the stock from $65.00 to $52.00 in a report on Tuesday, December 14th. Finally, UBS Group decreased their target price on Comcast from $60.00 to $52.00 and set a “neutral” rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, December 14th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and nineteen have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Comcast presently has an average rating of “Buy” and a consensus target price of $63.48. Read more …

 

UBS Group (NYSE:UBS) was upgraded by research analysts at Barclays from an “underweight” rating to an “equal weight” rating in a research note issued on Monday, Price Targets.com reports.

Several other equities analysts have also commented on the stock. DZ Bank lowered shares of UBS Group from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating and set a CHF 18 target price on the stock. in a report on Tuesday, October 26th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their target price on shares of UBS Group from CHF 21 to CHF 22 in a report on Friday, January 7th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reissued a “buy” rating on shares of UBS Group in a report on Wednesday, December 1st. Morgan Stanley restated an “equal weight” rating on shares of UBS Group in a research note on Monday, November 29th. Finally, BNP Paribas upgraded shares of UBS Group from a “neutral” rating to an “outperform” rating in a research note on Friday, January 7th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of “Buy” and an average target price of $18.80. Read more …

 

California Water Service Group (NYSE:CWT) was upgraded by investment analysts at Seaport Res Ptn from a "sell" rating to a "neutral" rating in a research note issued to investors on Tuesday, Zacks.com reports.

A number of other equities research analysts also recently weighed in on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price target on shares of California Water Service Group from $62.00 to $63.00 and gave the stock an "underweight" rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 1st. Zacks Investment Research raised shares of California Water Service Group from a "hold" rating to a "buy" rating and set a $64.00 target price for the company in a research note on Tuesday, November 2nd. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, one has given a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the company's stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of "Hold" and an average target price of $60.67.

NYSE:CWT opened at $61.57 on Tuesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.95, a quick ratio of 1.06 and a current ratio of 1.09. The firm's 50-day moving average is $66.69 and its 200-day moving average is $63.44. California Water Service Group has a 52-week low of $51.02 and a 52-week high of $72.08. The company has a market cap of $3.24 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.99 and a beta of 0.18. Read more …

 

 

NIKE (NYSE:NKE) was upgraded by equities research analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from an "equal weight" rating to an "overweight" rating in a report issued on Tuesday, Briefing.com reports. The brokerage presently has a $175.00 price target on the footwear maker's stock. Wells Fargo & Company's target price would indicate a potential upside of 19.86% from the company's previous close.

A number of other equities research analysts have also recently weighed in on the stock. Wedbush initiated coverage on shares of NIKE in a research note on Monday, October 4th. They set an "outperform" rating and a $170.00 price objective on the stock. Credit Suisse Group set a $176.00 price target on shares of NIKE in a research report on Tuesday, January 4th. Telsey Advisory Group lifted their price target on NIKE from $176.00 to $190.00 and gave the stock an "outperform" rating in a research note on Thursday, December 16th. The Goldman Sachs Group set a $172.00 price target on NIKE and gave the stock a "buy" rating in a research note on Monday, December 6th. Finally, Morgan Stanley lowered their target price on NIKE from $206.00 to $202.00 and set an "overweight" rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, December 21st. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and twenty-five have issued a buy rating to the company's stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of "Buy" and a consensus price target of $180.31. Read more …

7 Dividend Stocks Trading at Attractive Valuations

 

These low P/E, dividend-paying plays are poised for meaningful upside in 2022

 

 

In general, investors look for capital gains from high-growth stocks. Dividend stocks, meanwhile, often don’t provide significant upside. However, investors who prefer regular cash flows tend to go overweight on dividend stocks.

 

Of course, there are exceptions among dividend plays, from the perspective of healthy capital gains as well as dividend gains. My focus in this column, though, is on dividend stocks that seem to be trading at attractive valuations.

 

It’s worth noting that the S&P 500 currently trades at a cyclically adjusted price-earnings (P/E) ratio of 39.6. As such, I have screened dividend stocks that trade at a significant discount to broad market valuations. Over the next six to 12 months, these picks have headroom for meaningful upside. Investors can therefore enjoy the double benefit of regular cash inflows as well as capital growth.

 

I would also add that most of these names are low-beta stocks. With liquidity tightening around the corner, there is a case for some correction in the markets. In a bearish sentiment scenario, these picks are likely to be outperformers.

 

 

So, without further ado, let’s take a deeper look into these seven attractively valued picks.

 

Continue reading …

 

Dividend Increases Weeks 1, 2 and 3, 2022

 

In this article, I will go through the weekly dividend increases and cuts in popular and well-known stocks. (Member of The Dividend Champions or Canadian All-Star list)

 

Recently, 19 companies announced dividend increases. Note that no dividend cuts or suspensions were announced during this period.

 

The table below summarises the dividend change announcements.  The table shows the current dividend, the new dividend and the percentage increase (%). Dividends are shown on an annual basis and in US dollars unless otherwise stated. Yield is the new dividend yield of the most recent price, and Years is the years of consecutive dividend increases.

 

 

 

 

 

Alamo Group Inc. (ALG)

Alamo Group Inc. designs, manufactures, distributes, and services agricultural and infrastructure maintenance equipment for governmental and industrial use worldwide. The company offers hydraulically-powered and tractor-mounted mowers, such as boom-mounted mowers; other cutters and replacement parts for heavy-duty and intensive uses; and heavy duty, tractor-and truck-mounted mowing, and vegetation maintenance equipment and replacement parts. Alamo Group Inc. was founded in 1955 and is headquartered in Seguin, Texas.

On January 3, ALG declared a quarterly dividend of $0.18 per share.

This is a 28.6% increase from prior dividend of $0.14. 

Payable February 1 for shareholders of record January 18, ex-div January 17.

 

Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (EPD)

Enterprise Products Partners L.P. provides midstream energy services to producers and consumers of natural gas, natural gas liquids (NGLs), crude oil, petrochemicals, and refined products. The company operates through four segments: NGL Pipelines & Services, Crude Oil Pipelines & Services, Natural Gas Pipelines & Services, and Petrochemical & Refined Products Services. The company was founded in 1968 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.

On January 6, EPD declared a quarterly dividend of $0.465 per share.

This is a 3.3% increase from prior dividend of $0.45. 

Payable February 11 for shareholders of record January 31, ex-div January 28.

 

STAG Industrial, Inc. (STAG)

STAG Industrial, Inc. (NYSE: STAG) is a real estate investment trust focused on the acquisition and operation of single-tenant, industrial properties throughout the United States. By targeting this type of property, STAG has developed an investment strategy that helps investors find a powerful balance of income plus growth.

On January 10, STAG declared a monthly dividend of $0.121667 per share.

This is a 0.7% increase from prior dividend of $0.1208. 

Payable February 15 for shareholders of record January 31, ex-div January 28.

 

Lakeland Financial Corporation (LKFN)

Lakeland Financial Corporation operates as the bank holding company for Lake City Bank that provides various banking products and services. The company accepts various deposit products, such as noninterest bearing, interest-bearing checking, savings, money market, NOW, and demand deposits. Its loan products include commercial and industrial, commercial real estate and multi-family residential, agri-business and agricultural, consumer 1-4 family mortgage, and other consumer loans. Lakeland Financial Corporation was founded in 1872 and is headquartered in Warsaw, Indiana.

On January 11, LKFN declared a quarterly dividend of $0.40 per share.

This is a 17.6% increase from prior dividend of $0.34. 

Payable February 7 for shareholders of record January 25, ex-div January 24.

 

Ally Financial Inc. (ALLY)

Ally Financial Inc., a bank holding company, provides various digital financial products and services to consumer, commercial, and corporate customers primarily in the United States and Canada. It operates through four segments: Automotive Finance Operations, Insurance Operations, Mortgage Finance Operations, and Corporate Finance Operations. The company was formerly known as GMAC Inc. and changed its name to Ally Financial Inc. in May 2010. Ally Financial Inc. was founded in 1914 and is based in Detroit, Michigan.

On January 11, ALLY declared a quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share.

This is a 20.0% increase from prior dividend of $0.25. 

Payable February 15 for shareholders of record February 1, ex-div January 31.

 

 

Apogee Enterprises, Inc. (APOG)

Apogee Enterprises, Inc. designs and develops glass and metal products and services in the United States, Canada, and Brazil. The company operates in four segments: Architectural Framing Systems, Architectural Glass, Architectural Services, and Large-Scale Optical Technologies (LSO). The company was incorporated in 1949 and is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

On January 12, APOG declared a quarterly dividend of $0.22 per share.

This is a 10.0% increase from prior dividend of $0.20. 

Payable February 15 for shareholders of record January 31, ex-div January 28.

 

ATCO Ltd. (TSE:ACO.X)

ATCO Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides housing, logistics and transportation, agriculture, water, real estate, and energy and energy infrastructure solutions in Canada, Australia, and internationally. The company offers workforce and residential housing; modular facilities; construction and site support; workforce lodging; facility operations and maintenance; defense operations; and disaster and emergency management services. ATCO Ltd. was founded in 1947 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

On January 13, ACO.X declared a quarterly dividend of C$0.4483 per share.

This is a 3.0% increase from prior dividend of C$0.4483. 

Payable March 31 for shareholders of record March 3, ex-div March 2.

 

Canadian Utilities Limited (TSE:CU)

Canadian Utilities Limited and its subsidiaries engage in the electricity, natural gas, and retail energy businesses worldwide. It operates through Utilities, Energy Infrastructure, and Corporate & Other segments. The company was incorporated in 1927 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Canadian Utilities Limited is a subsidiary of ATCO Ltd.

On January 13, CU declared a quarterly dividend of C$0.4442 per share.

This is a 1.0% increase from prior dividend of C$0.4398. 

Payable March 1 for shareholders of record February 3, ex-div February 2.

 

BlackRock, Inc. (BLK)

BlackRock, Inc. is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm primarily provides its services to institutional, intermediary, and individual investors including corporate, public, union, and industry pension plans, insurance companies, third-party mutual funds, endowments, public institutions, governments, foundations, charities, sovereign wealth funds, corporations, official institutions, and banks. It also provides global risk management and advisory services. BlackRock, Inc. was founded in 1988 and is based in New York City.

On January 14, BLK declared a quarterly dividend of $4.88 per share.

This is an 18.2% increase from prior dividend of $4.13. 

Payable March 23 for shareholders of record March 7, ex-div March 4.

 

Mercantile Bank Corporation (MBWM)

Mercantile Bank Corporation operates as the bank holding company for Mercantile Bank of Michigan that provides commercial and retail banking services for small- to medium-sized businesses and individuals in the United States. It accepts various deposit products, including checking, savings, and term certificate accounts; time deposits; and certificates of deposit. Mercantile Bank Corporation was incorporated in 1997 and is headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

On January 18, MBWM declared a quarterly dividend of $0.31 per share.

This is a 3.3% increase from prior dividend of $0.30. 

Payable March 16 for shareholders of record March 4, ex-div March 3.

 

 

Enterprise Bancorp, Inc. (EBTC)

Enterprise Bancorp, Inc. operates as the holding company of Enterprise Bank and Trust Company that provides commercial banking products and services. It offers commercial and retail deposit products, including checking accounts, limited-transactional savings and money market accounts, commercial sweep products, and term certificates of deposit. The company was founded in 1989 and is headquartered in Lowell, Massachusetts.

On January 18, EBTC declared a quarterly dividend of $0.205 per share.

This is a 10.8% increase from prior dividend of $0.185. 

Payable March 1 for shareholders of record February 8, ex-div February 7.

 

Fastenal Company (FAST)

Fastenal Company, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the wholesale distribution of industrial and construction supplies in the United States, Canada, Mexico, North America, and internationally. It offers fasteners, and related industrial and construction supplies under the Fastenal name. Fastenal Company was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Winona, Minnesota.

On January 18, FAST declared a quarterly dividend of $0.31 per share.

This is a 10.7% increase from prior dividend of $0.28. 

Payable March 2 for shareholders of record February 2, ex-div February 1.

 

Union Bankshares, Inc. (UNB)

Union Bankshares, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Union Bank that provides retail, commercial, and municipal banking products and services in northern Vermont and New Hampshire. It offers retail depository services, such as personal checking, savings, money market, IRA/SEP/KEOGH, and health savings accounts, as well as certificates of deposit. Union Bankshares, Inc. was founded in 1891 and is headquartered in Morrisville, Vermont.

On January 19, UNB declared a quarterly dividend of $0.35 per share.

This is a 6.1% increase from prior dividend of $0.33. 

Payable February 3 for shareholders of record January 29, ex-div January 27.

 

Alerus Financial Corporation (ALRS)

Alerus Financial Corporation, through its subsidiary, Alerus Financial, National Association, provides various financial services to businesses and consumers. The company operates through four segments: Banking, Retirement and Benefit Services, Wealth Management, and Mortgage. Alerus Financial Corporation was founded in 1879 and is headquartered in Grand Forks, North Dakota.

On January 19, ALRS declared a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share.

This is a 6.7% increase from prior dividend of $0.15. 

Payable April 8 for shareholders of record March 18, ex-div March 17.

 

Graham Holdings Company (GHC)

Graham Holdings Company, through its subsidiaries, operates as a diversified education and media company worldwide. It provides test preparation services and materials; data science education, and training and healthcare simulation services; professional training and exam preparation for professional certifications and licensures; and non-academic operations support services to Purdue University Global. Graham Holdings Company was founded in 1877 and is based in Arlington, Virginia.

On January 20, GHC declared a quarterly dividend of $1.58 per share.

This is a 4.6% increase from prior dividend of $1.51. 

Payable February 17 for shareholders of record February 3, ex-div February 2.

 

 

J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. (JBHT)

J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. provides surface transportation and delivery services in North America. It operates through five segments: Intermodal (JBI), Dedicated Contract Services (DCS), Integrated Capacity Solutions (ICS), Final Mile Services (FMS), and Truckload (JBT). The company was incorporated in 1961 and is headquartered in Lowell, Arkansas.

On January 20, JBHT declared a quarterly dividend of $0.40 per share.

This is a 33.3% increase from prior dividend of $0.30. 

Payable February 18 for shareholders of record February 4, ex-div February 3.

 

Consolidated Edison, Inc. (ED)

Consolidated Edison, Inc., through its subsidiaries, engages in the regulated electric, gas, and steam delivery businesses in the United States. The company offers electric services to approximately 3.5 million customers in New York City and Westchester County; gas to approximately 1.1 million customers in Manhattan, the Bronx, parts of Queens, and Westchester County; and steam to approximately 1,576 customers in parts of Manhattan. It also supplies electricity to approximately 0.3 million customers in southeastern New York and northern New Jersey; and gas to approximately 0.1 million customers in southeastern New York. Consolidated Edison, Inc. was founded in 1823 and is based in New York, New York.

On January 20, ED declared a quarterly dividend of $0.79 per share.

This is a 1.9% increase from prior dividend of $0.775. 

Payable March 15 for shareholders of record February 16, ex-div February 15.

 

Sierra Bancorp (BSRR)

Sierra Bancorp operates as the bank holding company for Bank of the Sierra that provides retail and commercial banking services to individuals and businesses in California. The company accepts various deposit products, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, money market demand accounts, time deposits, retirement accounts, and sweep accounts. Sierra Bancorp was founded in 1977 and is headquartered in Porterville, California.

On January 21, BSRR declared a quarterly dividend of $0.23 per share.

This is a 4.5% increase from prior dividend of $0.22. 

Payable February 14 for shareholders of record January 31, ex-div January 28.

 

Alliant Energy Corporation (LNT)

Alliant Energy Corporation operates as a utility holding company that provides regulated electricity and natural gas services in the Midwest region of the United States. It operates in three segments: Utility Electric Operations, Utility Gas Operations, and Utility Other. The company was incorporated in 1981 and is headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin.

On January 21, LNT declared a quarterly dividend of $0.4275 per share.

This is a 6.2% increase from prior dividend of $0.4025. 

Payable February 15 for shareholders of record January 31, ex-div January 28.