Altria reported a strong Q1 with earnings per share of $1.32 and revenue of $4.76 billion, both increasing year-over-year. The company's pricing power and growth in smokeless products helped offset declines in traditional cigarette sales, supporting margin expansion and stable fundamentals. Despite a 23% stock rally over the past year, the analyst downgraded Altria to hold due to potential risks from inflation and macroeconomic uncertainty. Management reaffirmed 2024 EPS guidance of $5.56–$5.72, supported by a 6% dividend yield, robust share buybacks, and a strong balance sheet, indicating near-term dividend safety.
Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh's first post-meeting press conference introduces uncertainty about future rate moves, with markets watching for hawkish or dovish signals that could impact expectations. Accenture's recent stock weakness is viewed as...
Altria Group's stock is recommended as a hold due to its attractive 5.81% dividend yield and steady buyback program, despite a 33% rally in the past year. The company faces challenges with declining cigarette volumes, slipping market shares for Marlb...
