Before today’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.
1. Dr Pepper Snapple Upgraded by RBC Capital
RBC Capital upgraded Dr Pepper Snapple (DPS) from Underperform to Sector Perform, with a price target of $90 (from $68). Shares of Dr Pepper Snapple closed at $89.88 yesterday. The company pays an annual dividend of $1.92 (paid quarterly) and has a yield of 2.14%.
2. UDR, Inc. Upgraded by Credit Suisse
Credit Suisse upgraded UDR, Inc. (UDR ) from Underperform to Neutral, with a price target of $38 (from $36.50). Shares of UDR, Inc. closed at $35.66 yesterday. The company pays an annual dividend of $1.11 (paid quarterly) and has a yield of 3.11%.
3. Cheesecake Factory Upgraded by BTIG
BTIG upgraded Cheesecake Factory (CAKE ) from Neutral to Buy, with a price target of $60. Shares of Cheesecake Factory closed at $51.99 yesterday. The company pays an annual dividend of 80 cents (paid quarterly) and has a yield of 1.54%.
4. American Capital Agency Downgraded by Wunderlich Securities
Wunderlich Securities downgraded American Capital Agency (AGNC ) from Buy to Hold, with a price target of $19.50 (from $21). Shares of American Capital Agency closed at $19.07 yesterday. The company pays an annual dividend of $2.40 (paid monthly) and has a yield of 12.59%.
5. Marvell Downgraded by MKM Partners
MKM Partners downgraded Marvell (MRVL ) from Buy to Neutral, with a price target of $9 (from $12.40). Shares of Marvell closed at $9.45 yesterday. The company pays an annual dividend of 24 cents (paid quarterly) and has a yield of 2.54%.
