Workflow
Pfizer's 7.5% Dividend: Income Haven or House of Cards?
PfizerPfizer(US:PFE) MarketBeatยท2025-05-23 19:21

Core Viewpoint - Pfizer's high dividend yield of 7.5% attracts income-seeking investors, but underlying concerns about future growth and financial stability exist due to revenue declines and patent expirations [1][2][13]. Dividend Overview - Pfizer currently pays an annual dividend of $1.72 per share, translating to a quarterly payment of $0.43 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 7.5% as of May 22, 2025 [2][3]. - The company has a strong track record of increasing dividends for 16 consecutive years, appealing to investors seeking reliable income [4]. Financial Metrics - Pfizer's annualized 3-year dividend growth stands at 2.50%, with a dividend payout ratio of 124.64% based on trailing earnings, indicating that dividends exceed earnings [4][6]. - The dividend payout consumes approximately 47.69% of its cash flow, suggesting a more sustainable dividend based on cash generation [5]. Revenue Challenges - In Q1 2025, Pfizer's total revenues decreased by 8% year-over-year to $13.7 billion, primarily due to a 75% drop in Paxlovid sales as COVID-19 demand normalized [7]. - The company faces a significant revenue loss of $17-$18 billion annually between 2026 and 2028 due to the impending loss of exclusivity for key drugs like Eliquis and Prevnar [8]. Strategic Initiatives - Pfizer is pursuing a strategy focused on pipeline rejuvenation, particularly in oncology, highlighted by the $43 billion acquisition of Seagen in March 2023, which contributed $3.4 billion to revenue in FY 2024 [9]. - The company has entered a licensing agreement with 3SBio, Inc. for SSGJ-707, with an upfront payment of $1.25 billion, potentially worth up to $6 billion, aiming to launch eight new cancer medicines by 2030 [10]. Pipeline Developments - Positive developments in the oncology pipeline include FDA approval for Adcetris in large B-cell lymphoma and promising clinical data for Padcev in urothelial cancer [11]. - The Abrysvo RSV vaccine has seen expanded recommendations, potentially increasing market reach, although setbacks occurred with the discontinuation of the oral GLP-1 candidate danuglipron [12]. Investment Outlook - Pfizer's stock forecast indicates a 12-month price target of $29.17, representing a 25.08% upside, with a Moderate Buy rating based on 15 analyst ratings [13]. - The current high dividend yield is attractive, but the company faces significant operational challenges and uncertainties regarding future revenue growth [14][15].