Updates on our safety-conscious stocks

Article Excerpt

MANITOBA TELECOM SERVICES $31.45 (Toronto symbol MBT; Shares outstanding: 64.7 million; Market cap: $2.0 billion; SI Rating: Average) has lowered its 2009 earnings outlook. It now expects to earn between $2.60 and $2.90 a share, compared to its earlier forecast of $2.80 a share. The stock trades at 11.4 times the midpoint of the new range. Because of the recession and strong competition from other providers, businesses are buying fewer long-distance and traditional-phone services from Manitoba Telecom. However, the drop is being partly offset by continued strong business and consumer demand for wireless and high-speed Internet services. The weaker earnings forecast increases the possibility that Manitoba Telecom will cut its $2.60 dividend, which yields 8.3%. The dividend now represents a high 95% of the company’s new 2009 earnings forecast. However, Manitoba Telecom’s recent cost cuts should raise its 2010 earnings, and lower the payout ratio. As well, the company should generate enough cash flow this year to cover both the dividend and…