
TSE:BCE
BCE is in a less favorable competitive position relative to their peers. They are on the verge of having to make large capital gains, like into fibre optics. However, they can now do so with better, more efficient technology than their peers. The shares do have the highest dividend yield of any of its peers and this why they hold it. He thinks he would add to positions if it were to drop into the mid-$40 range. Yield 5.7%.
The PE is around 17 with a payout ratio of 80-90% -- very high for a telco. They are in a good space in Canada and the stock may be impacted by the general move towards bonds. He is fearful of increasing regulation in Canada. The dividend is safe, he feels. Yield 5.8%. (Analysts’ price target is $59)
A long-term holding for him.. It has increased its dividends a lot over history, though the recent share price is lagging its peers. Dividend increases are going down. A few acquisitions like Manitbo Tel, could wring out some synergies, but there are no new purchaes to support future dividend growth.
BCE vs. ATT. Stock performance has been similar over last year. Comes down to the wireless space. For ATT, it’s the only thing they do, whereas with BCE it’s only one thing they do. In Canada, there’s more runway for wireless growth. He’d go with BCE, good dividend and cash flow. It’s a little early to own high dividend names, but once interest rates start falling, these names will look interesting.
She holds this for some of her income investors, and she likes the yield. It has a consistent record of increasing dividends. The stock price has pulled back with rising interest rates as have other telecom companies. The dividend is safe, and she expects the business to grow by 4 to 6% per year. Yield 6%.
Most investors are waiting for an equity issue. She doesn’t think the stock is going anywhere. Telus (T-T) is a better choice as they have a better balance sheet.