Stock News: Analyst Moves for July 17: TE, MLM, CS, and More

Below are the dividend stocks that were subject to analyst moves before the bell. Analysts weigh in with insight and commentary as to what you can expect going forward.

Utilities company Teco Energy (TE ) saw its stock upgraded Thursday afternoon with Mizuho Securities confirming a buy rating and a new target price of $24.00. The broker re-rated the stock based on reports that the company was looking at strategic opportunities, including a possible sale. Finishing Thursday’s session at $21.48 (up 15.6%), Teco Energy’s adjusted dividend yield is 4.19%, with an annual payout of $0.90 (paid quarterly). The stock is 2.45% from its 52 week high.

Martin Marietta Materials (MLM ), which supplies general building materials, was upgraded on Friday with BB&T Capital lifting their rating to buy. Expected to announce their earnings on the 4th of August, analysts are looking for an EPS of $1.72. Martin Marietta announced in February a 78% increase in Q4 earnings. Finishing Thursday’s session at $153.79 (up 1.9%), MLM’s adjusted dividend yield is 1.04%, with an annual payout of $1.60 (paid quarterly). The stock is 1.40% from its 52 week high.

Investment bank Credit Suisse (CS ) saw its stock downgraded pre market on Friday with Deutsche Bank changing their rating to hold. No price target was supplied. Finishing Thursday’s session at $29.11 (down 0.5%), Credit Suisse’ adjusted dividend yield is 2.56%, with an annual payout of $0.75 (paid annually). The stock is 1.49% from its 52 week high.

Cable television provider Cablevision Systems (CVC ) was downgraded pre market on Friday with Jeffries confirming a hold rating and a new price target of $24.00. This comes after Chairman Patrick Drahi, from multinational cable provider Altice, confirmed last week that he was interested in the Cablevision business. Finishing Thursday’s session at $27.30 (down 0.7%), Cablevision Systems’ adjusted dividend yield is 2.20% with an annual payout of $0.60. The stock is 1.76% from its 52 week high.

Drug manufacturer Allergan (AGN ) saw its stock downgraded from Top Pick to outperform by RBC Capital on Friday. Target price remains at $361. Reports that the company had lost an appeal over the use of its Alzheimer’s drug, could translate into a $200 million fall in sales for AGN. Finishing Thursday’s session at $317.37 (down 0.9%), Allergan’s adjusted dividend yield is 0.06%, with an annual payout of $0.20. The stock is 1.57% from its 52 week high.