As we start earnings season, the blue-chip stocks get the attention. This is logical because these stocks have a large following of investors. In comparison, I am always looking for stocks with nice yields that have positive earnings surprises. So far, I have identified three stocks with positive earnings in the first week. Here are the a brief details of stocks with dividend yields higher than 4% that made the list.
Gannett (GCI), publisher of USA today, reported better-than-expected quarterly earnings this week. The largest newspaper chain in the United States and an industry bellwether, said excluding special items, it earned 56 cents per share, beating analysts’ average forecast of 52 cents, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S. Gannett is in the process of rolling out a digital pay strategy; it has launched already at half of its U.S. publishing properties. Digital revenue was up about 33 percent in the quarter and circulation revenue was up for the first time in years.
GCI expects a surge in advertising demand due to the Summer Olympics and U.S. elections. GCI is trading at $14.78 with a dividend yield of 5.41%. GCI has an equity summary score of 7.7 out of 10 for a Bullish outlook.
Shaw Communications (SJR) is a diversified communications and media company, providing consumers with broadband cable television, High-Speed Internet, Home Phone, telecommunications services (through Shaw Business), satellite direct-to- home services (through Shaw Direct) and engaging programming content (through Shaw Media).
SJR had net income from continuing operations of $248 million or $0.53 per share for the quarter ended May 31, 2012 compared to$203 million or $0.45 per share for the same period last year. Net income from continuing operations for the first nine months of the year was $628 million or $1.34 per share compared to $392 million or $0.86 per share last year. SJR is trading at $19.42 with a dividend yield of 4.94%. Dividends are paid on a monthly basis. SJR has an equity summary score of 9.1 out of 10 for a VERY Bullish outlook.
Banco Latinoamericano De Comercio Exterior, S.A. (BLX) provides trade financing to commercial banks, middle-market companies, and corporations primarily in Latin America and the Caribbean. Net Income during the first six months 2012 reached $55.4 million, a $13.4 million, or 32%, improvement compared to the same period in 2011. The results were driven by the strong performance in the Commercial Division, where Net Income rose $20.3 million, or 96%, during the period, reflecting higher net interest income due to increased lending balances and yields.
Bladex is trading at $21.398 with a dividend yield of 4.68%. BLX has an equity summary score of 9.9 out of 10 for a VERY Bullish outlook.