Altria Could Shatter Its 52-Week High: This Dividend King Beckons With a 6.4% Yield

Core Viewpoint - Altria's stock has shown strong performance with a 16% increase in 2026 and a dividend yield of 6.4%, supported by its consistent dividend growth and strategic focus on nicotine products [1] Group 1: Stock Performance and Dividend - Altria's stock rose 16% in 2026, outperforming the broader market, and has increased 25% over the past year [1] - The stock offers a dividend yield of approximately 6.4% and is trading less than 2% below its 52-week high of $68.60 [1] - Altria has raised its dividend for 57 consecutive years, aiming to pay out about 80% of adjusted earnings per share as dividends [1] Group 2: Market Demand and Product Strategy - The demand for Altria's flagship Marlboro brand remains steady due to nicotine's addictive nature, allowing for price increases even amidst declining cigarette sales [1] - Traditional cigarette sales dropped about 10% in 2025, but Altria is shifting towards smoke-free products, with its on! oral nicotine pouches seeing a 10.9% increase in shipments [1] - Nicotine pouches now account for over 55% of the overall oral tobacco market, with expectations for continued growth through 2036 [1] Group 3: Regulatory Challenges - Altria faced regulatory issues that led to the withdrawal of its NJOY Ace e-vapor product from stores, with no expected return in 2026 [1] - The company is now focusing more on oral nicotine products in response to these challenges [1]