Before Thursday’s opening bell, a number of big-name, dividend stocks were the subject of analyst moves. Below, we highlight the most important analyst commentary for investors.
1. Washington Federal Downgraded by Macquarie
Macquarie downgraded Washington Federal (WAFD) from Neutral to Underperform with a price target of $18.00. Shares of Washington Federal closed at $24.07 yesterday. The company pays an annual dividend of $0.52 (paid quarterly).
2. BofA/Merrill Lynch Downgrades Lexington Realty Trust
BofA/Merrill Lynch downgraded Lexington Realty Trust (LXP ) from Buy to Neutral with a price target of $9.75. Shares of Lexington Realty Trust closed at $9.09 yesterday. LXP pays an annual dividend of $0.68 (paid quarterly).
3. BofA/Merrill Lynch Upgrades AT&T
BofA/Merrill Lynch upgraded AT&T (T ) from Neutral to Buy with a price target of $40 (from $35). Shares of AT&T closed at $35.78 yesterday. The company pays an annual dividend of $1.88 (paid quarterly).
4. Goldman Sachs Upgrades Royal Caribbean Cruises
Goldman Sachs upgraded Royal Caribbean Cruises (RCL) from Neutral to Buy with a price target of $91.00 (from $79.00). Shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises closed at $80.50 yesterday. RCL has an annual payout of $1.20 paid quarterly.
