Below are the dividend stocks that were subject to analyst moves before the bell. Analysts weigh in with insight and commentary as to what you can expect going forward.
1. General Mills Upgraded by RBC Capital
Processed and packaged goods supplier General Mills (GIS ) saw its stock upgraded pre-market on Tuesday, with RBC Capital confirming an Outperform rating and a new target price of $65.00. The company recently announced the release of a number of new products for the summer quarter, with the emphasis on ‘health and wellness’. Finishing Monday’s session at $56.83 (down 0.2%), General Mills’ adjusted dividend yield is 3.10%, with an annual payout of $1.76 (paid quarterly). The stock is 1.98% from its 52-week high.
2. Argo Group International Upgraded by Macquarie
Argo Group International (AGII), the property and casualty insurance provider, was upgraded on Monday, with Macquarie lifting their rating to Neutral and adding a new target price of $57.00. In May, CEO Mark Watson highlighted a 34% rise in net income, a 14.3% return on shareholder equity, and growth across all underwriting divisions. Finishing Monday’s session at $56.83 (down 0.2%), Argos’ adjusted dividend yield is 1.41%, with an annual payout of $0.80 (paid quarterly). The stock is 6.19% from its 52-week high.
3. Artisan Partners Asset Management Upgraded by Credit Suisse
Asset manager Artisan Partners Asset Management (APAM ) saw its stock upgraded pre-market on Tuesday, with Credit Suisse adjusting their rating and adding the stock to their Outperform list. The new price target is $57.00. Finishing Monday’s session at $46.42 (down 1.5%), Artisan’s adjusted dividend yield is 5.17%, with an annual payout of $2.40 (paid quarterly). The stock is 18.55% from its 52-week high.
4. Hasbro Downgraded by Piper Jaffray
Hasbro (HAS ) was downgraded pre-market on Tuesday, with Piper Jaffray confirming a Neutral rating and a new price target of $85.00. The company specializes in toys and games. Reporting better-than-expected earnings of $41.8 million for Q2, the analyst for Piper Jaffray noted that the stock was fully priced at such levels. Finishing Friday’s session at $83.15 (up 6.3%), Hasbro’s adjusted dividend yield is 2.21%, with an annual payout of $1.84. The stock is 1.50% from its 52-week high.
5. USD Partners Downgraded by Barclays
Energy services provider USD Partners LP (USDP) saw its stock downgraded to Equal Weight by Barclays on Tuesday. The new price target is $13.00. Finishing Monday’s session at $10.85 (down 1.47%), USD Partners’ adjusted dividend yield is 10.60%, with an annual payout of $1.15. The stock is 37.93% from its 52-week high.
