AFL - Aflac Incorporated
| Previous Close | 52.51 |
| Open | 52.60 |
| Bid | 51.76 x 800 |
| Ask | 0.00 x 1300 |
| Day's Range | 52.57 - 53.03 |
| 52 Week Range | 41.45 - 57.18 |
| Volume | 2,781,842 |
| Avg. Volume | 3,458,695 |
| Market Cap | 39.114B |
| Beta (3Y Monthly) | 0.50 |
| PE Ratio (TTM) | 12.88 |
| EPS (TTM) | N/A |
| Earnings Date | N/A |
| Forward Dividend & Yield | 1.08 (2.04%) |
| Ex-Dividend Date | 2019-08-20 |
| 1y Target Est | N/A |
- American City Business Journals
Here are 15 of Georgia's highest-paid corporate legal executives
The Association of Corporate Counsel last year heralded the start of the "Age of the Chief Legal Officer."
- Insider Monkey
Were Hedge Funds Right About Selling AFLAC Incorporated (AFL)?
Is AFLAC Incorporated (NYSE:AFL) a good investment right now? We check hedge fund and billionaire investor sentiment before delving into hours of research. Hedge funds spend millions of dollars on Ivy League graduates, expert networks, and get tips from investment bankers and industry insiders. Sure they sometimes fail miserably, but their consensus stock picks historically […]
- Zacks
Why Aflac (AFL) is a Great Dividend Stock Right Now
Dividends are one of the best benefits to being a shareholder, but finding a great dividend stock is no easy task. Does Aflac (AFL) have what it takes? Let's find out.
- Moody's
American Family Life Assur. Co. of Columbus -- Moody's announces completion of a periodic review of ratings of Aflac Incorporated
Moody's Investors Service ("Moody's") has completed a periodic review of the ratings of Aflac Incorporated and other ratings that are associated with the same analytical unit. The review was conducted through a portfolio review in which Moody's reassessed the appropriateness of the ratings in the context of the relevant principal methodology(ies), recent developments, and a comparison of the financial and operating profile to similarly rated peers. This publication does not announce a credit rating action and is not an indication of whether or not a credit rating action is likely in the near future.
- GuruFocus.com
These 3 Large Caps Offer High Earnings Returns
Marathon Petroleum Corp tops the list Continue reading...
- Zacks
This is Why Aflac (AFL) is a Great Dividend Stock
Dividends are one of the best benefits to being a shareholder, but finding a great dividend stock is no easy task. Does Aflac (AFL) have what it takes? Let's find out.
- Zacks
Is Aflac (AFL) Outperforming Other Finance Stocks This Year?
Is (AFL) Outperforming Other Finance Stocks This Year?
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Accident and Health Insurers Near-Term Prospects Gloomy
Accident and Health Insurers Near-Term Prospects Gloomy
- Zacks
Why Is Aflac (AFL) Down 10.1% Since Last Earnings Report?
Aflac (AFL) reported earnings 30 days ago. What's next for the stock? We take a look at earnings estimates for some clues.
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Hartford Financial (HIG) Up 34% YTD: More Room to Run?
Hartford Financial's (HIG) divestments and acquisitions besides improving investment income are likely to aid its top line, which in turn, should boost its share price.
- Simply Wall St.
Is Aflac Incorporated's (NYSE:AFL) ROE Of 11% Impressive?
One of the best investments we can make is in our own knowledge and skill set. With that in mind, this article will...
- Yahoo Finance
Legendary coach Nick Saban teams with the Aflac duck for new ad campaign
Six-time national college champion football coach Nick Saban teams up with the Aflac duck in a new series of ads.
- Zacks
Aflac Rides on Strong U.S. Business and Solid Balance Sheet
Aflac's (AFL) favorable U.S business, changes in Japan business and a strong balance sheet are likely to aid its long-term growth.
- Zacks
What Makes Aflac (AFL) a New Buy Stock
Aflac (AFL) might move higher on growing optimism about its earnings prospects, which is reflected by its upgrade to a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy).
- InvestorPlace
The 8 Best Cash Cow Stocks to Buy for Stable Returns
[Editor's note: "The 8 Best Cash Cow Stocks to Buy for Stable Returns" was previously published in March 2019. It has since been updated to include the most relevant information available.]One of the most popular investment strategies is to focus on fast-charging growth companies. The appeal, of course, is that you can get in on the ground floor of a paradigm-shifting industry. But remember the adage cash is king. The most dependable stocks to buy are usually what people call "cash cows."While no one will criticize sharply rising growth metrics, cash flow represents a business' lifeblood. A weakened cash position can lead to severe problems further down the road, even with strong growth. No matter how viable an organization, it must find a way to keep the lights on. That's why some of the best investments also feature consistent free cash flow.InvestorPlace - Stock Market News, Stock Advice & Trading TipsAnother reason to look at a company's money outflows as opposed to strictly its income statement is flexibility. Simply put, well-financed operations have more options. They can choose to put money to work through key investments, or to expand operations. * 15 Growth Stocks to Buy for the Long Haul And if the worst happens, and the underlying industry hits a recession, cash cows can better weather the storm. Because of this dynamic, you'll want to at least peek at the cash flow statement for your target investments.Below are the eight best cash cow stocks to buy now: McDonald's (MCD)I'm going to make a confession straight off the bat. I don't understand why people eat at McDonald's (NYSE:MCD), particularly those who do so regularly. Admittedly, they make great coffee and their French fries are to die for, but the rest of it? Not quite so appetizing.Source: Shutterstock Nevertheless, I don't need to understand a phenomenon to recognize that it's working. Moreover, those who are looking primarily for reliable stocks to invest in should seriously consider MCD stock.Last year, the iconic fast-food company generated nearly $5.6 billion in cash flow from operations. In their most recent reported quarter, MCD produced earnings per share of $1.97, in-line with analysts' average estimate.Additionally, McDonald's enjoys consistent FCF every year, offering invaluable confidence in a rising, but unpredictable market. Plus, MCD pays out a 2.20% dividend yield, which management should have no problems sustaining. Aflac (AFL)We often say that there are two guarantees in life: death and taxes. In reality, we should add a third, which is random events that conspire to ruin your day. Whether it's a massive accident or a debilitating illness, stuff happens. When it does, Aflac's (NYSE:AFL) insurance products can help you or your family recover financially.Source: Shutterstock It's amazing how much a relatively common occurrence, such as a broken leg, can add up to serious out-of-pocket expenses. Just for the consistent demand, AFL should be on most people's list of stocks to buy. And as you might expect, Aflac enjoys robust cash flows from operations. * 15 Growth Stocks to Buy for the Long Haul AFL is one of those conservative stocks to buy that have performed well in the markets. On a year-to-date basis, shares are up 16%. Better yet, Aflac pays out a 2% dividend yield. Steady growth and passive income? AFL is too good to ignore. Paychex (PAYX)If you're asked to come down to the human resources department, chances are, it's for unpleasant reasons. Nevertheless, HR plays a crucial role as it deals directly with a company's most valuable asset: people. You can never go wrong with experts in this field, which is why Paychex (NASDAQ:PAYX) is a consistent winner.Source: Shutterstock But another factor boosting PAYX is their product flexibility. Despite their big-name brand, they offer scaled solutions for virtually any organization. From tiny businesses with a lone employee to major, multinational firms, PAYX can tailor-fit an effective, efficient platform. That will come in handy over the next few years as new businesses focus on agility rather than brute size.As you might expect, Paychex features a healthy balance between growth and cash flows; PAYX is up 18% year-over-year. Activision Blizzard (ATVI)The video game sector offers some of the best stocks to invest in. Thanks to gaming culture and tournaments going mainstream, this is an industry that will perpetually rise higher. Over the longer-term, this presents a viable tailwind for Activision Blizzard (NASDAQ:ATVI).Source: Shutterstock Admittedly, though, the ride in ATVI hasn't been an easy one. While its YTD performance is pretty much flat, shares have gyrated severely multiple times. Investors have an understandable concern that they're buying into ATVI near at or near its highs. Moreover, Activision has suffered significant competition; namely, Epic Games' "Fortnite." * 15 Growth Stocks to Buy for the Long Haul Still, I'm not worried. In terms of first-person shooting games, ATVI is still the king. Its "Call of Duty" series is legitimately a cash cow. Furthermore, Activision's financials have consistently demonstrated rising cash flow from operations. That might take a hit this year due to the competitive environment.However, don't count out ATVI. Not only can Activision leverage its own strengths in shooter games, "Fortnite" mania may be peaking. Alphabet (GOOG, GOOGL)Out of all the cash cow stocks to buy, Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG, NASDAQ:GOOGL) stands alone. One of the chief reasons why is due to the company's prevalence across multiple lucrative markets. From laptops to cloud computing to driverless-vehicle technology, GOOG disrupts any sector it wishes.Source: Shutterstock \ But the biggest reason I like Alphabet is that it dominates the internet. I realize that it's a tired argument because everybody has mentioned it. That doesn't mean, though, that the argument is any less valid.For instance, we all know that Google is the most popular search engine, but the gap between first place and second-ranked Bing is a whopping 66%!Moreover, Google is the unquestioned leader of mobile and tablet search engines with a 93% market share. In order to get anything done online, you essentially must go through Alphabet. And if your company doesn't rank well on Google, you're dead in the water. Philip Morris International (PM)On the surface, it appears big tobacco firms like Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM) face a double-whammy.Source: Taber Andrew Bain Via FlickrFirst, Americans are smoking cigarettes at a significantly reduced rate. Also, the under-18 crowd isn't taking up the habit like prior generations had. Second, the vaping market has exploded in popularity thanks to its cleaner platform.I don't think it's over for Philip Morris. For one thing, several markets, including the eastern Mediterranean and Africa, have witnessed a lift in smoking rates. That, of course, suits PM perfectly, which is the international arm of the iconic tobacco firm. PM stock has rebounded this year. On a YTD basis, shares have gained nearly 26%. * 15 Growth Stocks to Buy for the Long Haul Second, PM is intently focused on IQOS, which is a type of vaporizer. What makes IQOS distinct from the vaping competition is authenticity. PM understands the nuances that smokers are looking for, and they seek to replicate that experience in a digital platform.Best of all, Philip Morris is a cash-rich organization. That provides substantial confidence in the company's generous 5.4% dividend yield. Gilead Sciences (GILD)Thanks to an unpredictable political environment, and an extremely-competitive atmosphere, several pharmaceuticals have underperformed this year. Gilead Sciences (NASDAQ:GILD) is no exception, with GILD shares having gained only a little less than 3% YTD under choppy conditions.Source: Shutterstock But in the long run, I don't expect this pressured situation to continue. Earlier this year, Gilead announced positive results from a late-stage clinical trial of a rheumatoid arthritis drug. Additionally, management is looking forward to developing iterations of its HIV drug, Biktarvy. GILD could develop an injectable version of Biktarvy for patients who are resistant to the drug.If nothing else, GILD belongs on your list of stocks to buy thanks to its cash position. Even under a challenging environment, Gilead managed nearly $12 billion in operating cash flow last year. The company is more than stable enough to continue supporting its dividend yield, which currently stands at 3.9%. BCE (BCE)As Canada's biggest communications firm, BCE (NYSE:BCE) essentially has a moat. In this day and age, no one can survive without internet access. As such, BCE leverages extensive broadband and wireless networks that have a value north of $4 billion. The company's broadband footprint extends out to 9.2 million locations, and it offers LTE wireless coverage for almost every Canadian.Source: Shutterstock These impressive stats finally have started to translate into market success. So far this year, BCE shares are up 17%. * 15 Growth Stocks to Buy for the Long Haul Shares have grown slowly and steadily since the beginning of the year, suggesting the worst of the volatility is behind it. Second, BCE's revenues have steadily increased over the past three years, and we're on pace for a fourth. Finally, BCE offers a generous 5.15% dividend yield, which the company can support.Last year, the telecom firm had $5.8 billion in operating cash flow, and $2.6 billion FCF. Unless Canadians suddenly stop using the internet, you can trust BCE.As of this writing, Josh Enomoto did not hold a position in any of the aforementioned securities. More From InvestorPlace * 2 Toxic Pot Stocks You Should Avoid * 15 Growth Stocks to Buy for the Long Haul * 5 More Cloud Stocks With Plenty of Potential * 5 Clean Energy ETFs to Buy for 2019 The post The 8 Best Cash Cow Stocks to Buy for Stable Returns appeared first on InvestorPlace.
- Zacks
Aflac (AFL) is a Top Dividend Stock Right Now: Should You Buy?
Dividends are one of the best benefits to being a shareholder, but finding a great dividend stock is no easy task. Does Aflac (AFL) have what it takes? Let's find out.
- InvestorPlace
8 Dividend Aristocrat Stocks to Buy Now No Matter What
With the U.S.-China trade war seemingly getting uglier by the minute, investors are scrambling for defensive stocks to buy now. Of course, in the most extreme example, you can elect to go all into cash. However, history has proven that to be the worst thing to do. Instead, this is a perfect time to consider dividend aristocrats.First, market uncertainty incentivizes stable dividend stocks to buy now. How so? Passive-income generating companies typically perform better than high-flying growth names during bearish phases. For one thing, investors can still collect their payouts even if their portfolio isn't doing too well. Moreover, organizations that have a history of consistent payouts tend to be levered toward secular or otherwise steady industries.And there's no better paragon of stability than dividend aristocrats. For those who are unfamiliar with the term, dividend aristocrats have three main requirements: they must be equities traded in the S&P 500, have 25 years-plus of dividend increases and meet size/liquidity benchmarks.InvestorPlace - Stock Market News, Stock Advice & Trading Tips * 10 Cyclical Stocks to Buy (or Sell) Now However, a word of caution. Just because you put dividend aristocrats in your list of stocks to buy now doesn't guarantee a smooth ride. If the markets turn volatile, you can expect virtually all names to incur red ink.But the major selling point is magnitude. With dividend aristocrats, you're limiting your potential losses due to the robustness of the target company. Better yet, the volatility provides a rare discount for these stalwarts of industry.So with that in mind, here are eight stocks to buy now with a long track record of payouts: Stocks to Buy: McDonald's (MCD)Source: Shutterstock Dividend Yield: 2.1%I'm going to start my list of stocks to buy now with a name I was wrong about: McDonald's (NYSE:MCD). One of the reasons why I didn't like MCD stock was that the Golden Arches apparently wasn't winning over millennials. But recently, I started eating out at McDonald's, and I discovered that the real fundamentals don't match the "paper" data.For instance, the McDonald's app is incredibly convenient. You order what you want on your phone and go up to the counter or the drive-thru. Very quickly, their employees deliver your selected items. And let's talk about the drive-thru: it's lightning-quick, even with rows of waiting cars. That's a major plus for MCD stock.Finally, McDonald's is a proud member of the dividend aristocrats. It has increased its payout consistently over a 43-year period. If a downturn were to impact the markets, MCD stock is a name you'll want to own. Colgate-Palmolive (CL)Source: Shutterstock Dividend Yield: 2.4%When you're on the hunt for stable stocks to buy now, you don't want to get too cute. Instead, you'll want to go with a proven name like Colgate-Palmolive (NYSE:CL). The investment thesis for CL stock is straightforward and simple. Even in times of recession, people still need to brush their teeth. Thus, I expect a steady revenue stream no matter what happens in the coming months and years.I do have one caveat about CL stock: this doesn't quite belong on a list of stocks to buy now if you're interpreting "now" literally. However, I'm still putting it high on my list because I think shares will quickly fall to a more attractive price point. Personally, I'm eyeballing the equity's 200-day moving average, which is around $66. * 5 Cheap Stocks to Buy Now That the Fed Cut Rates But even if you were to hit the buy button now, I believe CL stock will give you excellent protection over the coming months. Keep in mind that Colgate-Palmolive has increased their dividends for 55 years. That's an impressive feat, even compared to other dividend aristocrats. Further, it's a status that management won't give up without a fight. Cardinal Health (CAH)Source: Shutterstock Dividend Yield: 4.5%In recent years, the healthcare sector has suffered a black eye from a public relations standpoint. Thus, it's no surprise that many companies in this segment have faltered. However, I'd consider putting Cardinal Health (NYSE:CAH) on your list of stocks to buy now. Unlike other players in this broad category, CAH stock is strongly levered to secular demand.In other words, Cardinal Health has a wide range of professional medical products. They run the gamut from anesthesia-related equipment to laboratory products down to something as mundane as gloves. While medical technology is always improving, some things will always remain the same. For these everyday concerns in the medical field, Cardinal Health has folks covered. Ultimately, that's a great catalyst for CAH stock.Another factor is that the company very much belongs on the list of dividend aristocrats. While the exact number of dividend increases causes some disagreement, CAH is included in the Proshares S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats ETF (BATS:NOBL). And whatever the case, it has reliably raised dividends for at least the last 14 years. Aflac (AFL)Source: Shutterstock Dividend Yield: 2%Simply put, Aflac (NYSE:AFL) is a great company with an incredibly relevant service. As you no doubt have learned through their quirky commercials, Aflac specializes in supplemental insurance. Essentially, their range of products protect you financially from incidents that "regular" insurance doesn't cover or cover adequately. Plus, their solutions represent an incremental cost for much peace of mind, bolstering the case for AFL stock.And while most millennials probably think they're invincible, many will encounter situations that give them a reality check. Additionally, they may hear horror stories about how coverage gaps financially ruined one of their peers. Whatever the case, Aflac, and by logical deduction, AFL stock, has opportunities to rise through word of mouth. * 10 Generation Z Stocks to Buy Long Finally, Aflac is one of the most stable stocks to buy now among dividend aristocrats. Currently, the dividend payout ratio for AFL stock is only 25%. That gives management considerable cushion to pay their shareholders while still investing richly in their business. Kimberly-Clark (KMB)Source: Shutterstock Dividend Yield: 3%I don't always prepare for recessions. But when I do, I take a long look at Kimberly-Clark (NYSE:KMB). If you're concerned about a prolonged downturn in the U.S. or global economy, you'll also want to consider KMB stock. As with Colgate-Palmolive, the bullish argument here is very simple: even in recessions, people need to use the bathroom.And without getting graphic, people also need to take care of themselves after a lengthy session with the porcelain throne. Kimberly-Clark offers some of the best products for this endeavor, and I speak from personal experience. Moreover, the company has other family-care products. If you think about it, KMB stock is truly a cradle-to-grave investment.One knock on KMB stock, though, is that its payout ratio of 78% is a bit on the high side. But on the other hand, it pays out an attractive 3% yield. Furthermore, Kimberly-Clark has traded among dividend aristocrats for 46 years. That makes its shares one of the stocks to buy now in my book. Chevron (CVX)Source: Shutterstock Dividend Yield: 4%With the U.S. and China trading barbs and sanctions, it's no surprise that oil companies like Chevron (NYSE:CVX) fell. On surface level, CVX stock currently faces two major headwinds. First, global volatility means lower demand overall for energy. Second, the push for clean and renewable energies makes CVX stock appear antiquated, and perhaps soon approaching irrelevancy.Admittedly, the first point is going to be a major distraction for Chevron. However, even in the middle of a recession, people still require transportation. Thus, I don't see demand falling completely off the cliff. On the second point, I believe green energy is more a gimmick than a practical reality. Our infrastructure is simply not ready to accommodate innovations like electric vehicles on a mass scale. * 10 Generation Z Stocks to Buy Long Granted, CVX stock is a risky play among this list of stocks to buy now. That said, the trade war dynamic should drive shares to an attractive discount. At that point, I think Chevron becomes a bargain because the world still needs fossil-fuel-based energy. AT&T (T)Source: Shutterstock Dividend Yield: 6%With AT&T (NYSE:T), we're really getting into the riskier side of the dividend stocks to buy now. I say this for a couple of reasons. One, with a yield of 6%, sustainability becomes a concern. Second, and a perfect segue, the dividend payout ratio for T stock is on-paper astronomical. Therefore, many bears anticipate that AT&T will lose its status as one of the key dividend aristocrats.However, it's important to point out that telecoms usually have extremely large depreciation and amortization costs. That artificially depresses earnings, which makes the high payout ratio somewhat deceptive. Still, I concede the point that T stock is saddled with an unprecedented debt level. Its big-moat, slow-growth narrative is distracting, especially when we may be headed toward a recession.That said, this criticism focuses on the headline print. In reality, AT&T is one of very few companies that have the resources and know-how to roll out the 5G network. And because we're in a tech cold war with international adversaries, I see the government supporting T stock big time. 3M (MMM)Source: Shutterstock Dividend Yield: 3.5%Last on my list of stocks to buy now is applied-sciences firm 3M (NYSE:MMM). After providing largely steady gains over the last several decades, MMM stock is in trouble. Hitting a peak around February of 2018, shares have formed an ugly bearish trend channel. Efforts to time the bottom have badly bruised speculators.Surely, I'm not alone when I say that I dislike the phrase "this time, it's different." It's almost bad karma to use those words when discussing an investment thesis. However, I genuinely believe that with MMM stock, this is a valid descriptor.One of the toughest challenges for MMM stock is that the underlying company didn't have a relevant product. That calculus has changed with their latest "Flex & Seal Shipping Roll." Essentially, this is a customizable shipping package that doesn't require tape or other cumbersome equipment.Looking at the video demonstration of Flex & Seal, I think it's a game-changer for retail. By logical deduction, then, it's a game-changer for MMM stock.As of this writing, Josh Enomoto is long T stock. More From InvestorPlace * 2 Toxic Pot Stocks You Should Avoid * 10 Cyclical Stocks to Buy (or Sell) Now * 7 Biotech ETFs That Should Remain Healthy * 7 of the Hottest AI Stocks to Buy Now The post 8 Dividend Aristocrat Stocks to Buy Now No Matter What appeared first on InvestorPlace.
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American International (AIG) Beats on Q2 Earnings & Revenues
American International's (AIG) second-quarter results reflect gains in its General Insurance and Life and Retirement segments and increase in investment income.
Meredith VideosAflac CEO On Leadership: Take Care of Your People.. They'll Take Care of Business
It also helps that the popular duck made Aflac a household name and boosted sales.
