The Dividend Daily

Biopharmaceutical company, Pfizer Inc.(PFE) reported Q4 earnings that showed a significant increase in profit, beating analysts expectations on Tuesday.

The New York, NY based company reported fourth quarter earnings of $6.32 billion, or 86 cents per share, up 77% from $1.44 billion, or 19 cents per share last year. Excluding special items, the company reported earnings of 47 cents per share, beating analysts estimate of 44 cents per share.

Increased profits were partially a result of a $12 billion sale in November for its nutritional products business to Swiss food groups Nestle SA.

PFE saw a -7% decrease in revenue during the quarter, reporting sales of $15.1 billion. Analysts expected to see still-lower revenue of $14.37 billion. Revenue declined due to increased competition in some key markets.

For the full year 2013, the company estimates earnings in the range of $2.20 to $2.30 per share. Analysts are expecting EPS of $2.29.

Pfizer shares were mostly flat during premarket trading Tuesday. The stock has increased 25% in the past year.

The Bottom Line
Shares of Pfizer Inc.(PFE) have a 3.58% yield, based on Monday’s closing stock price of $26.84.

Pfizer Inc.(PFE) is a “Recommended” dividend stock, holding a Dividend.com DARS™ Rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars.

Be sure to visit our complete recommended list of the Best Dividend Stocks, as well as a detailed explanation of our ratings system here.