A Pair of Global Giants, Nike and Starbucks, Offer Attractive Dividend Yields for Investors in 2025
When it comes to investing, few options can provide the same level of security as dividend-paying stocks. These companies have a proven track record of delivering returns to their investors, and often continue to do so year after year. Two such global giants are Nike and Starbucks, who are both experiencing weak sales trends but still manage to offer attractive dividend yields for 2025.
1. Nike: A Resilient Brand with a Track Record of Earnings Growth
As the leading athletic apparel brand in the world, Nike has been around since 1964 and is known for its innovative products, strong marketing efforts, and robust supply chain management. In recent years, the company has faced some challenges including declining sales in key markets such as North America, which contributed to a decline of 9% year-over-year in revenue during fiscal Q3. This resulted in a significant drop in stock price to multiyear lows.
However, it's worth noting that Nike paid out half of its trailing earnings in dividends last year and is expected to pay out around $0.40 per quarter. Despite recent dips in sales, the company has been producing plenty of earnings to sustain its dividend payment, which represents 75% of expected FY2025 earnings.
At its current share price of $61, Nike offers an attractive forward dividend yield of 2.62%. The industry faces stiff competition from brands like Adidas and VF Corporation but remains a resilient brand with strong brand recognition. By maintaining high margins through operational efficiency and innovative product offerings, investors have good reason to believe in the stock's potential upside.
2. Starbucks: A Great Record of Delivering Solid Returns
Another consumer brand that has been around for decades is Starbucks, the renowned coffeehouse chain founded by Howard Schultz in 1971. Its market capitalization may rival Nike's but its current valuation and high dividend yield make it attractive to investors seeking long-term returns.
Starbucks paid a quarterly payout of $0.61 last year, which translates to an impressive dividend payout ratio of around 85% compared to the previous quarter's earnings. As evident from historical trends, Starbucks has consistently maintained its annual dividend payments even when business conditions seemed challenging.
Under the leadership of new CEO Brian Niccol, Starbucks' primary objective remains "customer experience," ensuring high-quality products delivered in efficient and well-managed supply chain operations. Although global comparable store sales saw a 1% decline, it's encouraging to see this slowdown versus previous quarters indicating potential positive growth ahead under new management.
Tariff challenges do pose short-term uncertainties; however, Starbuck's financial guidance suggests continued support for long-term dividend payments through profitability and controlled expenses, enabling the distribution of more free cash flow or significant raises in dividends. This stability encourages income investors to position themselves within this top coffee brand that will offer profitable growth.
Key Takeaways
With compelling stories of how these iconic brands navigate uncertainty to improve profits, maintain dividends, or continue upward momentum with long-term vision as well as strategies for resilience through innovation and solid business operations management there are key investment opportunities worth considering:
- Diversify your portfolio: Spread your investments over several asset classes, sectors, and geographic regions.
- Understand the fundamentals: Assess each company's financial performance and track record to gain a clear understanding of their potential for growth.
- Set long-term goals: Establish investment objectives aligned with your risk tolerance and financial needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both Nike and Starbucks do face challenges in 2025, their strong track record of earnings growth, ability to sustain dividend payments, and strategies for resilience through innovation, solid business operations management, make them attractive options.