Tootsie Roll boasts a 59-year dividend growth streak, excellent safety metrics, and a nearly 4% yield when including stock dividends. Revenue and earnings have rebounded post-pandemic, but growth is expected to be low single digits due to economic headwinds and input cost inflation. The company has no long-term debt, strong free cash flow, and significant insider ownership, supporting long-term stability and dividend safety.
Despite commodity cost pressures and competition, Tootsie Roll's niche brand loyalty and sustainable payouts position it as a defensive dividend growth stock.
Tootsie Roll Industries has seen mixed financial performance, with revenue dropping but margins improving due to cost-cutting and higher pricing. Despite cheaper valuations, Tootsie Roll remains relatively pricey compared to peers, justifying a 'hold' rating. The company's net cash position and book value per share have grown, providing liquidity to weather current challenges.
Tootsie Roll is undervalued with a current P/E ratio of 22.2X, significantly below its historical averages, and a fair value estimate of $40.80. The company has iconic brands, a solid balance sheet with no long-term debt, and performs well during economic downturns. Tootsie Roll offers a 1.21% cash dividend yield and a 3% annual stock dividend, making it attractive for income and dividend growth investors.
Tootsie Roll survived the 1987 stock market crash, 1990 Gulf War, 2000 Dotcom Bust, 2007-09 Great Recession, 2020 Pandemic, and aggressive 2022 Fed tightening with minimal impact. The company's low debt profile, high profit margins, steady operations, and defensive trading characteristics make it an attractive option during market downturns. A 10-year low valuation setup is now available, with financial ratios uncommonly trading at par to discount readings vs. S&P 500.
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