Core Viewpoint - There is a strong case for UPS to consider cutting its dividend to better support cash flow generation and capitalize on growth opportunities [1][4][15] Financial Considerations - UPS's management previously projected $5.7 billion in free cash flow (FCF) for 2025, while the dividend payment is estimated at $5.5 billion, alongside $1 billion planned for share buybacks [2] - The potential inability to cover the dividend with FCF raises concerns, especially if management resorts to debt financing for dividends, which may not be financially prudent [3][12] Strategic Growth Initiatives - UPS is focusing on repurposing its network to handle higher-margin deliveries, which involves sacrificing some revenue for increased profitability [8][10] - The company is making strategic acquisitions in the healthcare sector, including a $1.6 billion deal for Andlauer Healthcare, to enhance its logistics capabilities [10][11] Return on Equity and Investment - By cutting the dividend, UPS could redirect resources towards investments that improve return on equity (RoE) and overall productivity [12][15] - Management aims to double healthcare revenue from $10 billion in 2023 to $20 billion by 2026, partly through acquisitions [13] Market Perception - A decision to cut the dividend could positively influence market expectations regarding UPS's long-term growth prospects, alleviating concerns over dividend sustainability [16]

Here’s where I stand: I think the market’s overreacting and tossing out United Parcel Service (NYSE: UPS ) with everything else. The stock’s taken a beating—down over 35% in the last year, and it’s not far from itsWith over 15 years of experience in the markets and a degree in economics, I focus on breaking down companies with clarity and discipline. My goal is to give individual investors a straightforward, honest view—what’s working, what isn’t, and where the risks and opportunities actually are. I don’t ...

UPS (NYSE: UPS ) ranks No. 11 in the S&P 500 in terms of dividend yield. The forward rate is now 6.84%, according to Seeking Alpha's data as of May 21, 2025. I assert theFreelance Financial Writer | Investments | Markets | Personal Finance | RetirementI create written content used in various formats including articles, blogs, emails, and social media for financial advisors and investment firms in a cost-efficient way. My passion is putting a narrative to financial data. Working with teams that include senio ...

One of the most effective tactics I use is to buy strong stocks in strong sectors. They may have high valuations, but that is usually for a good reason. Occasionally, I employ different tactics when good companies are on sale and the stock isMy approach is long-term and I focus on investing in macro ideas through low risk ETFs and CEFs. I have traded stocks and currencies for nearly ten years and currently run a family fund with my partner and fellow SA contributor Andrew McElroy. I also invest in real esta ...

Logistics startup Stord said Monday that it's buying UPS subsidiary Ware2Go as it looks to expand its footprint in the e-commerce space.The company declined to provide specifics on the purchase price of the deal.The Atlanta-based company founded by former Thiel Fellow Sean Henry said the acquisition will boost Stord's competitive edge as it looks to chip away at the e-commerce space dominated by the likes of Amazon.Ware2Go is a third-party delivery company that looks to make quick delivery more accessible f ...

Core Insights - United Parcel Service (UPS) offers a substantial dividend yield of 6.4%, supported by 16 consecutive annual dividend increases, making it attractive for income-seeking investors [1] - The stock has experienced significant volatility, losing over 50% of its value since its peak in early 2022 due to changing market conditions and investor sentiment [2] Business Performance - UPS has undergone a major business overhaul, including facility closures and modernization efforts, aimed at boosting profitability, with profit margins showing signs of stabilization [3] - The company has made a strategic decision to reduce its reliance on Amazon, its largest customer, due to low profitability in that segment, which may lead to short-term challenges but is expected to be beneficial in the long run [5][6] Market Environment - Current tariff policies from the U.S. administration have created uncertainty in global trade, contributing to a nearly 20% decline in UPS shares in 2025 [7] - Despite negative sentiment, there is a belief that global trade will recover, as evidenced by recent trade talks between the U.S. and China, suggesting that investor pessimism may be overstated [8] Operational Outlook - UPS is focusing on streamlining its operations while adapting to reduced package volumes due to the shift away from Amazon deliveries, with execution being a critical factor to monitor [9] - The company has shown resilience, with year-over-year increases in revenues and operating profits in the first quarter of 2025, indicating effective execution amidst challenges [10]

Group 1: Dividend Risks - Both Ford and UPS are at risk of cutting their dividends due to challenging financial conditions, with UPS planning to pay out about $5.5 billion in dividends in 2025 and Ford potentially using up to 89% of its free cash flow (FCF) on dividends in 2025 [4][6] - UPS aims to pay out approximately 50% of its earnings in dividends, while Ford targets 40% to 50% of its FCF [2][4] - The trading environment has deteriorated, leading both companies to suspend or not update their guidance, with UPS experiencing a 9% decline in average daily volumes in the second quarter [5][6] Group 2: Company Performance - Ford's transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) is progressing slowly, with significant losses in its EV segment, reporting a loss of $5.1 billion in 2024 [10] - UPS is shifting its revenue mix from low-profitability business-to-consumer deliveries to higher-margin deliveries in small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and healthcare, which is expected to improve its financial performance [11][12] - UPS has seen impressive growth in its SMB segment, increasing its share of U.S. volume from 27% in 2021 to 28.9% in 2024, with a goal of reaching 40% [13] Group 3: Strategic Outlook - UPS is investing in productivity-enhancing technologies, which are expected to lead to cost reductions and improved returns on assets [12] - Ford faces significant challenges in the EV market, particularly with competition from Tesla, while UPS is on a better strategic trajectory despite near-term headwinds [14]

Two investing adages might seem to contradict each other. Many investors have long followed the maxim to "buy low and sell high." On the other hand, they've also been told: "Don't try to catch a falling knife."Which of the familiar sayings applies to United Parcel Service (UPS 0.85%)? Shares of the package delivery giant have plunged more than 50% below the high set in 2022. However, I don't view UPS as a "falling knife" to avoid. Instead, I think this ultra-high-yield dividend stock is a great pick for lon ...

The United States and China recently announced a deal to temporarily reduce their high reciprocal tariffs. The 90-day agreement between the two nations to reduce tariffs has rekindled hopes of easing global trade tensions. The development is a highly welcome one for United Parcel Service (UPS) , which has a global presence.Although signs of trade tensions easing have emerged, until a concrete long-term trade deal is inked, we are not out of the woods as far as this uncertainty is concerned. This can be gaug ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported consolidated profit growth in the first quarter, with U.S. operating profit increasing by $164 million and U.S. operating margin expanding by 110 basis points [38] - Last year, the company generated $6.3 billion in free cash flow and ended the year with over $6 billion in cash on the balance sheet [48] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company plans to reduce Amazon's volume by more than 50% by June 2026, focusing on profitable segments while exiting unprofitable fulfillment center outbound volume [36][37] - Health care revenue totaled $10.5 billion last year and is expected to grow mid-single digits in 2025, with plans to acquire targeted companies to enhance capabilities [41][42] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. import volume is approximately 400,000 pieces per day, representing less than 2% of total global average daily volume and about 5% of consolidated revenue [50] - The company has seen strong growth in small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), with SMBs making up 31.2% of total U.S. volume, the highest concentration in ten years [42] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is undertaking the largest network reconfiguration in its history, planning 164 operational closures, including 73 buildings, to improve cost structure and profitability [39][60] - The focus is on revenue quality and growth in key markets such as health care, international, and SMBs, while leveraging technology and automation to enhance efficiency [41][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenging macro environment and emphasized the need for meaningful actions to improve performance and create additional value [19][20] - The company is confident that its strategic actions will lead to improved profitability, cash generation, and higher returns on invested capital, which should positively impact share price over time [46] Other Important Information - The company has maintained its dividend policy, marking the sixteenth consecutive year of dividend increases, and prioritizes reinvestment in the business [48][49] - The company is actively managing risks associated with voluntary carbon reduction commitments and trade policy changes, while also exploring opportunities in the evolving market landscape [16][50] Q&A Session Summary Question: Why is UPS reducing its volume from Amazon, and why now? - The company is exiting unprofitable Amazon fulfillment center outbound volume, which has pressured U.S. operating margins, while retaining profitable segments [36][37] Question: When will UPS redesign its network and reduce costs to grow profit? - The company has already begun profit growth, reporting a $164 million increase in U.S. operating profit and plans to remove $3.5 billion in expenses through network reconfiguration [38][39] Question: What plans do you have to grow the business, especially with reduced exposure to large customers? - The company expects growth by focusing on health care, international markets, and SMBs, with specific acquisitions planned to enhance capabilities [41][42] Question: Can you comment on investor confidence and stock performance? - Management expressed disappointment in stock performance but highlighted actions taken to improve profitability and cash generation, which should lead to higher share prices over time [44][46] Question: What is the status of the dividend policy and buybacks? - The dividend remains a hallmark of financial strength, with a focus on reinvestment, maintaining a strong financial condition, and using excess cash for share repurchases [48][49] Question: How will UPS be affected by tariff changes? - The company is well-positioned to manage complex trade policies but acknowledges exposure to potential price increases and consumer demand impacts due to tariffs [50][52] Question: How does RFID technology provide a competitive advantage? - RFID technology improves efficiency and visibility, with a significant reduction in manual scans, and the company plans to expand its deployment internationally [53][54] Question: How will UPS maintain competitiveness with closing drop-off locations? - The company continues to lead in service reliability and will remain accessible through a network of UPS stores and drop-off points, despite building closures [56][57] Question: Has there been a change in the cleanliness of package cars and driver appearance? - The company maintains high standards for vehicle cleanliness and has updated driver uniform guidelines to enhance comfort and visibility [58][59]