Stock price when the opinion was issued
They are involved in small equipment leasing, which historically has correlated with auto leasing. He is negative on the prospects for auto leasing and is concerned about the prospects for Chesswood’s funding sources. The dividend is high but the payout ratio is around 50% so he thinks the dividend is reasonably safe. However, this could come under pressure in the future.
Last year, profits were way up, but suddenly Q1 was disappointing. They took a large provision for loan losses and their costs have shot up. So, they slashed profits. Pays a 7% dividend, and shares are cheap. He has trimmed his holding. Look elsewhere.