Housing Slowdown Weighs On AT&T

Article Excerpt

AT&T INC. $37 (New York symbol T; Conservative Growth Portfolio, Utilities sector; Shares outstanding: 6.1 billion; Market cap: $225.7 billion; WSSF Rating: Average) fell 5% in early January as it looks like the slump in the housing markets has forced the company to cut off service to some subscribers who could not pay their bills. Fears of slowing consumer demand for AT&T’s Internet and TV services also put pressure on the stock. However, AT&T’s traditional telephone and Internet businesses account for just 20% of its revenue. Demand for AT&T’s wireless services should remaining strong, particularly considering its exclusive deal to carry Apple’s iPhone. That should let it maintain its $1.60 dividend (4.3% yield). AT&T is a buy. buy…