Below are the dividend stocks that were subject to analyst moves before the bell. Our analysts weigh in with insight and commentary as to what you can expect going forward.
1. Charles Schwab Upgraded by Goldman Sachs
Investment brokerage company Charles Schwab (SCHW ) saw its stock upgraded pre-market on Friday with Goldman Sachs setting a new target of $36.00. This equates to a Buy valuation. Finishing Thursday’s session at $32.26 (down 0.09%), Charles Schwab’s adjusted dividend yield is 0.74% with an annual payout of 24 cents (paid quarterly). The stock is 0.59% from its 52-week high.
2. Virtus Investment Partners Upgraded by Jeffries
Asset manager Virtus Investment Partners (VRTS ) saw its stock upgraded pre-market on Friday with Jeffries setting a new target of $145.00. This equates to a Buy rating. Analysts cited a slowing in fund outflows and a strong balance sheet as reasons for the move. Finishing Thursday’s session at $125.41 (down 1.45%), Virtus’ adjusted dividend yield is 1.44% with an annual payout of $1.80 (paid quarterly). The stock is 44.82% from its 52-week high.
3. Post Properties Upgraded by Raymond James
Residential REIT Post Properties (PPS) saw its stock upgraded pre-market on Friday with Raymond James highlighting an Outperform and a new price target of $63.00. Finishing Thursday’s session at $56.11 (up 0.54%), Post Properties’ adjusted dividend yield is 3.14% with an annual payout of $1.76 (paid quarterly). The stock is 12.03% from its 52-week high.
4. Cable Vision Downgraded by Telsey
CATV services provider Cable Vision (CVC) saw its stock downgraded pre-market on Friday with Telsey keeping the price target at $23, however changing the rating to Market Perform. Finishing Thursday’s session at $23.74 (down 1.41%), Cable Vision’s adjusted dividend yield is 2.53% with an annual payout of 60 cents (paid quarterly). The stock is 10.42% from its 52-week high.
5. American Financial Downgraded by Keefe, Bruyette & Woods
Property and casual insurance provider American Financial Group (AFG ) saw its stock downgraded pre-market on Friday with Keefe, Bruyette & Woods keeping the price target at $28, but changing the rating to Market Perform. Finishing Thursday’s session at $63.89 (down 0.70%), American Financial’s adjusted dividend yield is 1.57% with an annual payout of $1.00 (paid quarterly). The stock is 3.08% from its 52-week high.
