Business & Finance
Business and Finance
Business and Finance
Fri, February 25, 2011 
NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire - February 25, 2011) - With the markets showing signs of volatility this week, investors are once again looking for safe havens. Investors usually count on dividend paying stocks during hectic times in the market believing in the company's security and real earnings power. Additionally, when interest rates get as low as they currently are, the return on dividends can far exceed that of bonds. Conglomerates have traditionally paid steady dividends, however during the financial meltdown most had substantially reduced, or altogether cut, their dividend payments. While some companies have started boosting dividend payments, others do not appear ready to increase shareholder return. The Bedford Report examines the outlook for companies in the Conglomerates Industry and provides research reports on General Electric Co. (
[ www.bedfordreport.com/2011-02-GE ]
[ www.bedfordreport.com/2011-02-MMM ]
GE pays an annual dividend of 56 cents for a yield of about 2.7 percent. While its dividend is nowhere near pre-recession levels, the company has boosted its dividend in two consecutive quarters. The company's 2009 dividend cut was GE's first in more than seventy years, with CEO Jeffrey Immelt calling it "the toughest decision (he) ever had to make as CEO." GE posted fourth-quarter earnings of $3.9 billion, or 36 cents a share, a 33 percent year-on-year improvement. While executives said little about dividends during the company's earnings call, GE said its core businesses were improving, and that it is continuing to show gains in its financial operations.
The Bedford Report releases regular market updates on the Conglomerates Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at [ www.bedfordreport.com ] and get exclusive access to our numerous analyst reports and industry newsletters.
Presently 3M pays an annual dividend of 2.10 for a yield of around 2.30 percent. 3M reported that its fourth quarter GAAP net income declined to $928 million, or $1.28 a share, from $935 million, or $1.30 a share, in the year-ago period. The company increased its 2011 earnings estimate to a range of $5.95 to $6.20 per share compared to a prior range of $5.90 to $6.10.
The Bedford Report provides Analyst Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. The Bedford Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. The Bedford Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at [ http://www.bedfordreport.com/disclaimer ]
