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. AvalonBay Communities Upgraded by Credit Suisse
Residential REIT AvalonBay Communities (AVB ) saw its stock upgraded Thursday, with Credit Suisse confirming an Outperform rating and a new target price of $200. Finishing Wednesday’s session at $178.14 (down 0.9%), AvalonBay Communities’ adjusted dividend yield is 2.81%, with an annual payout of $5 (paid quarterly). The stock is 1.95% from its 52-week high.
2. DiamondRock Hospitality Upgraded by Credit Suisse
DiamondRock Hospitality (DRH ), a Maryland-based lodging REIT, was upgraded on Thursday, with Credit Suisse lifting their rating to Overweight and adding a new price target of $15. Announcing a 14.3% increase in adjusted EBITDA, the company highlighted the completion of the $94 million Key West Sheraton Suites acquisition. Finishing Wednesday’s session at $12.55, DiamondRock’s adjusted dividend yield is 3.98%, with an annual payout of $0.50 (paid quarterly). The stock is 21.61% from its 52-week high.
3. Expeditors International Upgraded by Barclays
Expeditors International (EXPD ) saw its stock upgraded pre-market on Thursday, with Barclays changing their rating to Equal Weight. Their new price target is $52. Finishing Wednesday’s session at $49.79 (up 0.3%), Expeditors International’s adjusted dividend yield is 1.45%, with an annual payout of $0.72 (paid semi-annually). The stock is 0.42% from its 52-week high.
4. Walt Disney Company Downgraded by Bernstein
The Walt Disney Company (DIS) was downgraded pre-market on Thursday, with Bernstein confirming a Market Perform rating. No price target was supplied. The entertainment giant announced earlier in the week that they would be building a ‘Star Wars’-themed land within their major fun parks. Finishing Wednesday’s session at $106.45 (down 0.5%), Walt Disney Company’s adjusted dividend yield is 1.24%, with an annual payout of $1.32. The stock is 12.80% from its 52-week high.
5. CyrusOne Downgraded by Gabelli
Office REIT CyrusOne (CONE ) saw its stock downgraded to Hold by Gabelli on Thursday. No target price was supplied. This comes after the company announced a 9% increase in second quarter revenue and the completion of the Cervalis acquisition. Finishing Thursday’s session at $34.36 (down 0.4%), CyrusOne’s adjusted dividend yield is 3.67%, with an annual payout of $1.26. The stock is 3.35% from its 52-week high.
