Here's Why Nike's Unexpected Ace in the Hole Makes the Dividend Stock a Buy Now

Core Viewpoint - Nike's stock has declined significantly from its all-time high in 2021, now trading at multiyear lows, raising concerns about its recovery potential amid various market challenges [1][2]. Group 1: Company Performance and Strategy - Leadership changes and a new corporate strategy focusing on product innovation and key markets in China and North America may aid in Nike's recovery [2]. - Despite challenges such as trade tensions, weak consumer spending, and high interest rates, there are reasons for optimism regarding Nike's near-term performance [3]. - Nike has become a balanced capital allocator, utilizing buybacks and dividends to return value to shareholders, moving away from a heavy reliance on organic growth [5]. Group 2: Dividend and Buyback Programs - Nike has increased its dividend for 23 consecutive years, resulting in a yield of 2.3%, which is higher than the S&P 500 average of 1.3% [6]. - The company is currently offering its highest yield in over 15 years, making it an attractive option for passive income [7]. - In June 2022, Nike's board approved an $18 billion buyback program, with$499 million in stock repurchased in the most recent quarter, totaling 119.3 million shares repurchased for $11.8 billion [9]. Group 3: Financial Health and Future Outlook - Despite slowing growth, Nike's strong cash flow supports its ability to continue raising dividends and buying back stock, indicating financial resilience [10][11]. - The ongoing buyback program suggests management's confidence in the stock's undervaluation, providing a margin for error in capital allocation [12]. - Nike is viewed as an intriguing buy for value investors, although the stock may remain under pressure until there is clear evidence of sales and operating margin improvement [13].