Science & Technology
Science and Technology
Science and Technology
Tue, April 5, 2011
Investor Return a Top Priority for Windstream and Vodafone
NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire - April 5, 2011) - With the markets showing continued signs of volatility, investors are once again looking for safe havens. Dividend paying stocks traditionally get attention during hectic times in the market as investors are more likely to believe in companies that have an established record of stability and real earnings power. Additionally, when interest rates get as low as they currently are, the return on dividends can far exceed that of bonds. One of the more popular dividend plays is via companies in the telecom sector. Even during the recession, while many companies cut their dividend payments, most telecoms did not. Several telecom companies offer dividend yields exceeding 6%, and most can maintain these hefty dividends due to their stable revenues. The Bedford Report examines the outlook for companies in the Telecom sector and provides research reports on Windstream Corporation (
[ www.bedfordreport.com/2011-04-WIN ]
[ www.bedfordreport.com/2011-04-VOD ]
Vodafone says that going forward it is focused on improving shareholder returns through dividend payouts and recently issued a dividend per share growth policy of at least 7 percent per annum for the next three years. Currently the company pays an annual dividend of 91 cents for a yield of approximately 3.2 percent.
This month Vodafone announced that it sold its stake in the French mobile phone group, SFR, to Vivendi for $11.31 billion. Vodafone plans to return more than half of the proceeds to investors through a share buyback, bringing the total stock buyback program to 7% of its market value.
The Bedford Report releases regular market updates on the telecom sector so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at [ www.bedfordreport.com ] and get exclusive access to our numerous analyst reports and industry newsletters.
Presently Windstream pays an annual dividend of $1.00 for a yield of around 7.9 percent. Recently the company said its net income fell to $72.4 million, or 15 cents per share, in its fiscal fourth quarter, down from $75.5 million, or 17 cents per share, in the year-ago period. For 2011 Windstream expects adjusted free cash flow of around $863 million to $973 million and dividend payout ratio between 52 and 59 percent.
The Bedford Report provides Analyst Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. The Bedford Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned companies. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: [ http://www.bedfordreport.com/disclaimer ]
