Why Associated Banc-Corp (ASB) is a Great Dividend Stock Right Now

Company Overview - Associated Banc-Corp (ASB) is headquartered in Green Bay and has experienced a price change of -3.05% this year [3] - The company currently pays a dividend of $0.23 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 3.97%, which is higher than the Banks - Midwest industry's yield of 3.13% and the S&P 500's yield of 1.57% [3] Dividend Performance - The current annualized dividend of $0.92 represents a 3.4% increase from the previous year [4] - Over the past five years, Associated Banc-Corp has increased its dividend four times, averaging an annual increase of 5.65% [4] - The company's payout ratio is currently 41%, indicating that it pays out 41% of its trailing 12-month earnings per share as dividends [4] Earnings Growth Expectations - For the fiscal year, ASB anticipates solid earnings growth, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 projected at $2.49 per share, reflecting a year-over-year growth rate of 4.62% [5] Investment Considerations - Associated Banc-Corp is viewed as a compelling investment opportunity due to its strong dividend profile and current Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [7]