Russel Metals says its high dividend yield is sustainable through 2016. A further rebound in steel and a rise in oil and gas prices should strengthen its outlook.
RUSSEL METALS (Toronto symbol RUS; www.russelmetals.com) is one of North America’s largest metal distributors, serving over 39,000 clients at 53 locations in Canada and 12 in the U.S.
In the three months ended March 31, 2016, Russel’s revenue fell 26.8%, to $662.1 million from $903.9 million a year earlier. The company’s sales mainly declined because revenue from its energy products business fell 35%. It supplies pipes for oil and gas drillers.
Earnings for the quarter dropped to $7.8 million, or $0.13 a share. That’s a sharp decline of 57.8% from $18.5 million, or $0.30, a year earlier. Russel’s earnings fell faster than its revenue because steel prices moved down. That means the company’s existing inventory— bought at higher prices—was worth less. Russel was then forced to sell that steel to clients at current prices, for a lower profit.
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Growth Stocks: Dividend yield at 6.6%
The company holds cash of $140.7 million, or $2.28 a share, and its $295.4 million of long-term debt is a reasonable 20% of its market cap. The stock yields a high 6.6%, and the company’s management believes the payout is sustainable through 2016.
Oil and gas clients supply about 35% of Russel’s revenue. That adds to its cyclical risk. However, this business remains profitable for the company. Meanwhile, steel prices are now moving up as demand in China, especially for housing, continues to rebound.
Recommendation in Stock Pickers Digest: BUY
For our recent report on a growth that continues to adapt to changing markets, read Johnson & Johnson plans for a growth spurt.
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