Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management Sells 17,878 Shares of Philip Morris International Inc. $PM
Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management reduced its stake in Philip Morris International Inc. by 16.5%, selling 17,878 shares and now holding 90,156 shares valued at approximately $14.62 million. The company's recent earnings reported $1.70 EPS on $10.36 billion revenue, and analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating with an average price target of $194.06. Philip Morris also declared a quarterly dividend of $1.47 per share, representing an annualized yield of 3.2%.
Altria Group Inc.: Hidden High-Yield Play Or Value Trap For 2026?
Altria Group Inc. is presented as a high-yield investment due to its massive dividend cash flow, despite facing increasing regulatory pressure, vape bans, and shifting consumer habits in the US nicotine market. The article explores whether Altria is a smart play for passive income or a potential value trap, emphasizing its US market dominance and the ongoing tension between its strong income generation and significant regulatory and social trend risks. For investors, it's highlighted as a high-scrutiny position requiring active monitoring of regulations and consumer shifts.
NewEdge Wealth LLC Has $8.48 Million Stock Holdings in Philip Morris International Inc. $PM
NewEdge Wealth LLC increased its stake in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM) by 12.7% during the third quarter, bringing its total holdings to $8.48 million. Other institutional investors like Vanguard Group Inc. and State Street Corp also significantly increased their positions in the tobacco giant. Philip Morris International reported its Q4 earnings, meeting consensus estimates, and provided revenue guidance for Q1 and FY 2026.
Factory Mutual Insurance Co. Buys New Stake in British American Tobacco p.l.c. $BTI
Factory Mutual Insurance Co. recently acquired a new stake of 64,145 shares, valued at approximately $3.4 million, in British American Tobacco (NYSE: BTI) during the third quarter. This move aligns with increased institutional investor interest, as several firms significantly boosted their positions in BTI. Analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating for the stock, with a target price of $51.00, and the company has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.8349, yielding 5.5%.
Key facts: Altria Group shifts to smoke-free products; strong Marlboro sales
Altria Group is focusing on transitioning to smoke-free products, having observed significant growth in its oral tobacco and nicotine pouch segments. Despite inflation, the company also reported strong Marlboro sales, highlighting the resilience of its premium cigarette brands.
Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) Receives Consensus Rating of "Hold" from Analysts
Altria Group (NYSE:MO) has received a consensus "Hold" rating from twelve analysts, with an average 12-month price target of $63.67. The company offers a substantial 6.4% dividend yield and recently authorized a $2.00 billion share repurchase plan. Despite missing EPS estimates slightly in its last quarterly report, Altria's revenue exceeded expectations, and the stock is trading near its 52-week high.
Aberdeen Group plc Raises Stock Position in Altria Group, Inc. $MO
Aberdeen Group plc increased its stake in Altria Group, Inc. by 12.0% in the third quarter, acquiring an additional 28,574 shares, bringing its total to 266,367 shares valued at approximately $17.53 million. This comes as other institutional investors, including Ameriprise and Vanguard Group, also boosted their positions in the tobacco giant. Altria Group, which trades under the symbol $MO, offers a high annualized dividend yield of 6.4% but has a payout ratio exceeding 100%, and currently holds a "Hold" consensus rating from analysts with a target price of $63.67.
Altria Moving Forward with Smoke-Free Products
Altria Group, Inc. reaffirmed its 2026 full-year guidance, projecting adjusted diluted EPS growth of 2.5% to 5.5% from a 2025 base. The company anticipates earnings growth to be weighted towards the second half of the year, driven by increased cigarette import/export activity, pricing power, and capital allocation. Altria also emphasized its strategic shift towards smoke-free products, such as its on! nicotine pouch portfolio, despite challenges in the e-vapor market.
NEOS Investment Management LLC Has $13.15 Million Stake in Altria Group, Inc. $MO
NEOS Investment Management LLC significantly increased its stake in Altria Group, Inc. by 48.4%, now holding 199,009 shares valued at approximately $13.15 million. This comes as Altria's board authorized a $2.0 billion share buyback program and the company pays a quarterly dividend of $1.06, totaling an attractive 6.4% yield. Despite narrowly missing recent EPS estimates, analysts generally maintain a "Hold" rating for Altria, with the stock trading near its average price target.
Advisors Capital Management LLC Grows Position in Altria Group, Inc. $MO
Advisors Capital Management LLC significantly increased its stake in Altria Group, Inc. by 12.2% in the third quarter, now holding 480,273 shares valued at $31.7 million. Altria offers a substantial annual dividend of $4.24, representing a 6.4% yield, but has a payout ratio exceeding 100% and has authorized a $2.0 billion share buyback program. Analysts currently have a mixed "Hold" consensus rating for Altria, with a price target of $63.67 against its current trading price of approximately $66.54.
Altria Group (MO) Reaffirms 2026 Earnings Guidance
Altria Group (MO) has reaffirmed its 2026 adjusted diluted earnings per share forecast, projecting growth between $5.56 and $5.72, driven primarily by increased cigarette import and export activities in the latter half of the year. The company's guidance also factors in investments in contract manufacturing and regulatory enforcement impacts, while maintaining a leading position in the U.S. tobacco market with diversified interests. Despite a "modestly overvalued" valuation according to metrics, Altria exhibits strong financial health with robust margins and strategic investments.
JPMorgan Chase & Co. Grows Stock Position in Altria Group, Inc. $MO
JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its stake in Altria Group, Inc. by 7.2% during the third quarter, bringing its total holdings to over 12 million shares worth approximately $797.59 million. Other institutional investors also adjusted their positions in Altria, which recently reported an earnings per share of $1.30, slightly missing analyst estimates, and announced a new $2.00 billion stock repurchase program. The company also declared a quarterly dividend of $1.06 per share, and analysts currently maintain a "Hold" consensus rating with a target price of $63.67.
Altria Presents as Part of the Consumer Analyst Group of New York Conference; Reaffirms 2026 Full-Year Earnings Guidance
Altria Group, Inc. is participating in the Consumer Analyst Group of New York Conference, where its CEO and CFO will highlight the company's smoke-free portfolio and long-term growth aspirations. The company reaffirmed its 2026 full-year adjusted diluted EPS guidance in a range of $5.56 to $5.72, representing a growth rate of 2.5% to 5.5% from a 2025 base of $5.42. Altria's guidance accounts for investments in contract manufacturing, limited impact on volumes from illicit enforcement, and NJOY ACE not returning to the market in 2026.
Altria Presents as Part of the Consumer Analyst Group of New York Conference; Reaffirms 2026 Full-Year Earnings Guidance
Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE: MO) is participating in the Consumer Analyst Group of New York Conference, where its CEO and CFO will discuss the company's strategy for smoke-free products and long-term growth aspirations. The company is reaffirming its 2026 full-year adjusted diluted earnings per share guidance in the range of $5.56 to $5.72, representing growth of 2.5% to 5.5% from a 2025 base of $5.42. This guidance includes planned investments in smoke-free products and cost savings from its "Optimize & Accelerate" initiative.
Philip Morris International Inc. $PM Shares Sold by Drucker Wealth 3.0 LLC
Drucker Wealth 3.0 LLC significantly reduced its stake in Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) by 16.7% in Q3, selling 6,522 shares, though the stock remains their 22nd largest holding. Despite this, several major institutions like Vanguard and State Street increased their positions, leading to institutional investors owning 78.63% of PM. Philip Morris recently met earnings expectations with $1.70 EPS and announced a quarterly dividend of $1.47, with analysts giving the stock a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating.
Altria Group Inc. stock outperforms competitors despite losses on the day
Altria Group Inc. (MO) shares fell by 1.06% to $66.54 on Tuesday, despite a generally positive trading session for the broader stock market. The stock's decline ended a three-day winning streak, even as the S&P 500 Index and Dow Jones Industrial Average both saw modest gains.
NEOS Investment Management LLC Buys 64,808 Shares of Philip Morris International Inc. $PM
NEOS Investment Management LLC increased its stake in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM) by 50.2% during the third quarter, acquiring an additional 64,808 shares to own a total of 193,918 shares valued at $31.45 million. Other institutional investors also modified their holdings in the company. Philip Morris International reported its quarterly earnings on February 6th, meeting analyst expectations with $1.70 EPS on $10.36 billion in revenue, and recently declared a quarterly dividend of $1.47 per share.
Altria Group, Inc. $MO Shares Acquired by Public Sector Pension Investment Board
Public Sector Pension Investment Board increased its stake in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) by 13.7% in Q3, now owning 144,725 shares valued at $9.56 million. Other institutional investors also adjusted their positions, and hedge funds collectively own 57.41% of the company's stock. Altria Group recently reported Q4 earnings of $1.30 per share, missing consensus estimates, and announced a $2 billion stock buyback program and a quarterly dividend of $1.06 per share.
Looking Into Altria Group Inc's Recent Short Interest
Altria Group Inc's short interest has recently decreased by 7.37%, now standing at 2.64% of its float, which indicates a more bullish market sentiment. It would take traders an average of 3.76 days to cover their short positions. Compared to its peers, Altria Group Inc has less short interest, with the peer group average at 3.24%.
New Stoker's Proud dip aims at budget buyers with 100% American tobacco
Stoker's has launched a new value-focused sub-brand called "Stoker's Proud," featuring 100% American-grown tobacco and US manufacturing. The new line aims to appeal to price-conscious consumers with a distinct product experience and price point, while maintaining the brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. It will be available in Long Cut Straight and Long Cut Wintergreen styles in 1.2-ounce cans.
Can Altria Sustain EPS Growth Momentum Through 2026?
Altria is expected to sustain EPS growth through 2026, primarily driven by pricing actions and share repurchases, despite declining cigarette volumes. The company anticipates adjusted EPS of $5.56 to $5.72, representing 2.5% to 5.5% growth. While investing in smoke-free products, Altria's strategy hinges on maintaining pricing power, leveraging remaining share repurchase authorization, and balancing declining cigarette sales with new product development.
Philip Morris, BAT Unit Win Appeal To Nix Rival's Vape Patent
Philip Morris and a British American Tobacco (BAT) subsidiary successfully appealed to European officials to revoke a competitor's vape patent. The ruling determined that an existing device already includes electrical contacts in the same location to aid the heating process, invalidating the rival's patent claim for its e-cigarette.
Vanguard Group Inc. Sells 640,052 Shares of Altria Group, Inc. $MO
Vanguard Group Inc. reduced its stake in Altria Group, Inc. by 0.4% in the third quarter, selling 640,052 shares and now owning 159,077,096 shares valued at over $10.5 billion. Despite this sale, other institutional investors like Ameriprise Financial and Marshall Wace LLP increased their holdings. Analysts currently have a "Hold" consensus rating on Altria Group, with an average price target of $63.67.
Denali Advisors LLC Sells 21,719 Shares of Altria Group, Inc. $MO
Denali Advisors LLC reduced its stake in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) by 15.7% during the third quarter, selling 21,719 shares and leaving it with 116,243 shares valued at $7,679,000. Other institutional investors also adjusted their positions in Altria, which currently has a market capitalization of $112.85 billion and a consensus "Hold" rating from analysts. The company recently announced a quarterly dividend of $1.06 per share and a $2 billion stock repurchase program.
A Look At Turning Point Brands (TPB) Valuation After Analyst Optimism And Recent Share Price Rally
Turning Point Brands (TPB) has experienced a significant share price rally following optimistic analyst commentary, particularly from Oppenheimer, raising questions about its current valuation. While the company's ability to grow premium brands and maintain margins is cited as a strength, its last closing price of $131.77 is above the estimated fair value of $121.25, suggesting it may be overvalued. Key risks include increased spending on sales and marketing and potential tighter regulations for nicotine pouches.
Amica Mutual Insurance Co. Sells 18,088 Shares of Altria Group, Inc. $MO
Amica Mutual Insurance Co. significantly reduced its stake in Altria Group by selling 18,088 shares, now holding 21,811 shares valued at $1.44 million. Despite this, other institutional investors increased their positions in Altria. The company recently announced a $2.0 billion share repurchase program and a quarterly dividend of $1.06 per share, yielding approximately 6.3%.
Altria Could Shatter Its 52-Week High: This Dividend King Beckons With a 6.4% Yield
Altria (MO) stock has risen 16% in 2026, offering a 6.4% dividend yield, and is poised to surpass its 52-week high. The company boasts 57 consecutive years of dividend increases, backed by strong profitability from its core tobacco business and rapid growth in its on! oral nicotine pouch shipments, which now dominate over 55% of the oral tobacco market. Despite challenges in traditional cigarette sales and e-vapor products, Altria's focus on smoke-free alternatives and consistent cash flow make it a reliable choice for income-focused investors.
Shell Asset Management Co. Sells 23,549 Shares of Altria Group, Inc. $MO
Shell Asset Management Co. reduced its stake in Altria Group by 36.2%, selling 23,549 shares and holding 41,471 shares valued at $2.74 million. Despite the sell-off, Altria has a consensus "Hold" rating from analysts with an average price target of $63.67, alongside a 6.3% dividend yield and a recently authorized $2.0 billion share buyback program. The company reported slightly lower-than-expected earnings of $1.30 per share against an estimate of $1.32, but revenue of $5.08 billion exceeded expectations.
Shell Asset Management Co. Trims Stock Position in Philip Morris International Inc. $PM
Shell Asset Management Co. significantly reduced its stake in Philip Morris International Inc. by 63.4% in the third quarter, selling 39,966 shares and retaining 23,116 shares valued at $3.75 million. Despite this, other major institutional investors like Vanguard Group Inc. and DZ BANK AG increased their holdings. Philip Morris reported in-line quarterly EPS of $1.70 on $10.36 billion revenue, issued strong Q1 and FY2026 guidance, and offers a quarterly dividend of $1.47, reflecting a 3.1% yield.
HighTower Advisors LLC Buys 47,340 Shares of Altria Group, Inc. $MO
HighTower Advisors LLC increased its stake in Altria Group by 1.8% in Q3, purchasing an additional 47,340 shares to hold a total of 2,704,860 shares valued at $178.68 million. Altria has authorized a $2.0 billion share buyback and offers a quarterly dividend of $1.06, resulting in an annualized yield of about 6.3%. Despite missing EPS estimates by $0.02, Altria's stock is trading near $67.23, with analysts maintaining a "Hold" rating and a consensus price target of $63.67.
Altria Group, Inc. $MO Shares Sold by Ameritas Advisory Services LLC
Ameritas Advisory Services LLC reduced its stake in Altria Group (NYSE:MO) by 44.2% in the third quarter, selling 14,896 shares and retaining 18,841 shares valued at $1.245 million. Despite missing Q3 EPS expectations, Altria offers a 6.3% dividend yield and has authorized a $2.0 billion share buyback. Analysts maintain a "Hold" rating with a consensus target price of $63.67, while institutional investors own over 57% of the company's stock.
British American Tobacco p.l.c. Declares Quarterly Dividend of $0.83 (NYSE:BTI)
British American Tobacco p.l.c. (NYSE:BTI) announced a quarterly dividend of $0.8349 per share, to be paid on February 8th to shareholders of record on December 29th. This equates to an annualized dividend of $3.25 and a yield of 5.6%, with a payout ratio of 66.9%. Analysts project future earnings to sufficiently cover the dividend, with an expected payout ratio of 65.1%.
Altria Fits 10xEBT Rule Better Than British American Tobacco (NYSE:MO)
Altria Group (MO) and British American Tobacco (BTI) both trade below 10x EBT, offering high pretax yields and pursuing smoke-free product investments. Both show potential for double-digit annual returns given their dividend yields and growth rates. Altria, however, distinguishes itself with a higher EBT yield, superior Return on Capital Employed (ROCE), and a stronger long-term growth outlook compared to BTI.
Should Altria Stock Be Part of Your Portfolio Post Q4 Earnings?
Altria Group, Inc. delivered a resilient fourth-quarter 2025 performance, showcasing its business model's durability despite cigarette volume declines and regulatory uncertainties. The company leveraged pricing power, cost management, and strategic smoke-free investments to maintain margins and sustain earnings growth, leading to a 12% stock climb since the earnings release. Despite strong performance, the article suggests a "hold" stance due to modest earnings growth expectations, balancing its discounted valuation and attractive dividend yield against potential upside.
Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. Raises Stake in Altria Group, Inc. $MO
Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. significantly increased its stake in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) by 64.1% in Q3, now owning 103,835 shares valued at approximately $6.86 million. This comes as Altria reported Q4 EPS of $1.30, slightly missing estimates, with revenue down 0.5% year-over-year, and maintains a quarterly dividend of $1.06, boasting a 6.3% annual yield. The company also announced a $2.00 billion share buyback program and currently holds an average analyst rating of "Hold" with a target price of $63.67.
Altria Group Inc. (NYSE:MO) Stands Out as a High-Yield Dividend Stock with Strong Fundamentals
Altria Group Inc. (NYSE:MO) offers a compelling high-yield dividend for income-focused investors, supported by strong profitability, despite a high payout ratio. While it boasts a consistent dividend history and fair valuation, investors should be aware of limited growth prospects and some short-term liquidity challenges common for established companies in its industry. The company's excellent cash generation capacity helps to offset concerns about its dividend payout well exceeding net income.
Altria Group, Inc. $MO Shares Acquired by Assetmark Inc.
Assetmark Inc. increased its stake in Altria Group (NYSE:MO) by 1.5% during the third quarter, bringing its total holdings to 2,571,497 shares valued at approximately $169.9 million. Altria recently authorized a $2.00 billion share buyback program and paid a quarterly dividend of $1.06 per share, offering a 6.3% yield. Despite slightly missing EPS expectations, the stock currently holds a "Hold" consensus rating from analysts with an average price target of $63.67.
Altria Group (NYSE:MO) Trading 1.6% Higher - Here's Why
Altria Group (NYSE:MO) saw its stock price rise by 1.6% to $66.98 on Thursday, largely driven by analyst activity, including UBS raising its target to $67. The company's quarterly results showed an EPS of $1.30, missing estimates by $0.02, though revenue of $5.08 billion modestly beat expectations. Altria offers a 6.3% dividend yield and has authorized a $2.0 billion share buyback program.
How Investors Are Reacting To Altria (MO) Earnings Decline Amid Buybacks, Dividends And CEO Transition
Altria Group reported a decline in Q4 and full-year 2025 sales and net income, alongside a goodwill impairment, yet continued its share repurchase program and dividend growth. The company is preparing for a CEO transition later in 2026. This has shareholders considering the pressure on earnings against the ongoing commitment to shareholder returns and future prospects of smoke-free offerings.
Noteworthy Thursday Option Activity: MO, VZ, RXO
The article highlights significant options trading activity for Altria Group Inc (MO), Verizon Communications Inc (VZ), and RXO Inc (RXO). For MO, there was particularly high volume for the $68 strike call option expiring February 13, 2026. VZ saw strong interest in the $49 strike call option expiring March 20, 2026, while RXO had notable volume for the $12.50 strike put option expiring February 20, 2026.
ING Groep NV Buys New Position in Altria Group, Inc. $MO
ING Groep NV has acquired a new position in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) by purchasing over 215,000 shares valued at approximately $14.21 million during the third quarter. Altria currently offers a quarterly dividend with an annualized yield of about 6.4% and has authorized a $2.0 billion share repurchase plan. Analyst sentiment for Altria is mixed, with an average "Hold" rating and a target price slightly below the current trading value.
LSV Asset Management Acquires 58,076 Shares of Altria Group, Inc. $MO
LSV Asset Management increased its stake in Altria Group (NYSE:MO) by 1.1% in Q3, purchasing 58,076 shares to hold a total of 5,315,676 shares valued at $351,154,000. Altria, which offers a 6.4% dividend yield and has a $2.0 billion share repurchase program, recently reported Q1 EPS of $1.30, missing estimates, and generally holds a "Hold" consensus rating among analysts. The stock has a market capitalization of $110.65 billion and a P/E ratio of 16.04.
Altria Group, Inc. $MO Shares Purchased by Rhumbline Advisers
Rhumbline Advisers increased its stake in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) by 1.9% during the third quarter, bringing its total holdings to 2,702,117 shares valued at $178.5 million. Several other institutional investors also adjusted their positions in MO. Analysts have a mixed view on Altria, with a consensus "Hold" rating and an average price target of $63.67.
Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund Sells 88,439 Shares of Altria Group, Inc. $MO
The Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund reduced its stake in Altria Group, Inc. by 12.4% in the third quarter, selling 88,439 shares. Despite this, Altria Group remains a significant holding for the fund. The article also provides financial data for Altria Group, including its market cap, latest earnings, dividend information, and recent analyst ratings.
Philip Morris International Inc. $PM Shares Acquired by Atria Investments Inc
Atria Investments Inc. has increased its stake in Philip Morris International Inc. by 3.6% in the third quarter of 2025, now holding 181,492 shares valued at approximately $29.44 million. The company reported EPS in line with estimates and revenue slightly below expectations, while issuing positive guidance for Q1 and FY 2026. Analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating with an average target price of $194.06, though regulatory challenges like India's e-cigarette ban present ongoing risks.
Is Altria's Cost Discipline Enough to Protect Profit Margins?
Altria Group, Inc. is employing cost discipline through its "Optimize & Accelerate" initiative, aiming for $600 million in savings by 2029, to counter falling cigarette volumes and rising promotional spending. While their 2025 margins showed resilience, driven by smokeable products, fourth-quarter margins faced pressure. The company faces ongoing challenges from declining volumes and necessary investments in smoke-free products, suggesting that cost savings primarily act as a defensive measure rather than a full offset.
Is Altria's Cost Discipline Enough to Protect Profit Margins?
Altria is relying on cost discipline, specifically its "Optimize & Accelerate" initiative aiming for $600 million in savings by 2029, to counter declining cigarette volumes and rising promotional spending in the U.S. nicotine market. While 2025 showed resilience with strong operating margins in smokeable products, the fourth quarter revealed emerging strain as volume declines and increased promotional investments impacted margins. The company faces continued investment needs in smoke-free initiatives, making cost discipline a defensive measure that supports short-term margins but doesn't fully offset ongoing challenges.
Prospera Financial Services Inc Has $5.90 Million Holdings in Philip Morris International Inc. $PM
Prospera Financial Services Inc. significantly increased its stake in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM) by 41% during the third quarter, bringing its total holdings to 36,358 shares valued at approximately $5.90 million. Philip Morris recently met EPS estimates but slightly missed revenue forecasts, and it continues to offer a quarterly dividend with a 3.2% yield. The stock currently has a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating from analysts, with an average price target of $194.06.
Caprock Group LLC Makes New Investment in Philip Morris International Inc. $PM
Caprock Group LLC has initiated a new investment in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM), purchasing 53,363 shares valued at approximately $8.9 million. This move is part of a broader trend where other institutional investors like ING Groep NV and Krilogy Financial LLC have also adjusted their holdings in the company. Philip Morris International recently reported an EPS of $1.70, meeting analyst expectations, and announced a quarterly dividend of $1.47, reflecting a 3.2% dividend yield.
Caprock Group LLC Acquires Shares of 116,863 Altria Group, Inc. $MO
Caprock Group LLC has acquired a new position in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) by purchasing 116,863 shares valued at approximately $7.854 million. This move is part of broader institutional investment activity, with other major investors like Vanguard Group Inc. and State Street Corp also adjusting their holdings in Altria. The article also provides financial details for Altria, including its recent earnings, stock performance, dividend announcement, and analyst ratings.
