Before Friday’s opening bell, a number of big name dividend stocks were the subject of analyst moves. Below, we highlight the most important analyst commentary for investors.
Piper Jaffray Lowers Estimates on GameStop
Piper Jaffray has cut estimates on GameStop (GME) following the release of the retailer’s Q4 results. The firm has also lowered its price target on GME from $51 to $47. GME has a dividend yield of 3.71%.
Credit Suisse Lifts Estimates on AmerisourceBergen
Credit Suisse has boosted estimates on AmerisourceBergen Corp (ABC) through 2017 as the MWI acquisition is expected to add to earnings. The firm has an “Outperform” rating and a new $124 price target on ABC. This new price target suggests a 10% increase from the stock’s current price. ABC has a dividend yield of 1.03%.
Leerink Boosts Estimates Becton, Dickinson and Co.
Leerink Partners has raised estimates on Becton, Dickinson and Co. (BDX ), as the Carefusion deal is expected to add to earnings. The firm now has a $158 price target on BDX, suggesting a 10% upside. BDX has a dividend yield of 1.68%.
BB&T Corporation Upgraded to “Outperform”
BB&T Corporation (BBT ) has been upgraded from “Market Perform” to “Outperform” at FBR Capital. The firm has a $45 price target on BBT, suggesting a 15% increase from the stock’s current price. BBT has a dividend yield of 2.48%.
EMC Corporation Downgraded to “Sector Perform”
EMC Corporation (EMC) has been cut from “Outperform” to “Sector Perform” at Pacific Crest as the company is facing increased competition. EMC has a dividend yield of 1.78%.
JMP Securities Initiates Coverage on Quest Diagnostics
JMP Securities has started coverage on Quest Diagnostics (DGX ) with a “Market Perform” rating as the company is facing macro headwinds. DGX has a dividend yield of 2.00%.
Pacific Crest Cuts Estimates on SanDisk
Pacific Crest has lowered its price target on SanDisk Corporation (SNDK) to $82, suggesting 24% downside from the stock’s current price. The firm has also cut estimates on SNDK due to the company’s updated guidance. SNDK has a dividend yield 1.81%.
