Core Viewpoint - Xerox's shares dropped 13.7% following the announcement of a second dividend cut in six months, indicating a lack of confidence but also a strategic move to manage acquisition debt amid global economic uncertainty [1][5]. Group 1: Dividend Cuts - The first dividend cut occurred in December 2024, reducing the annual dividend from $1 per share to $0.50 due to the $1.5 billion acquisition of Lexmark International and an increase in debt load [2]. - The second cut announced recently further reduced the dividend to $0.10 annually, an 80% decrease, attributed to the accelerated closing of the Lexmark acquisition and global uncertainties from tariff policies [3]. Group 2: Financial Outlook - Xerox's market capitalization has fallen to $555 million, reflecting a low valuation multiple of 6 to 7 times projected operating income based on guidance for low-single-digit revenue growth and a 5% adjusted operating margin [6][7]. - The company anticipates generating approximately $315 million in operating income, leading to around $90 million in pre-tax income, assuming consistent interest expenses of $225 million [6]. Group 3: Strategic Considerations - The dividend cuts, while negative, are seen as a prudent measure to enhance financial flexibility and focus on debt reduction post-acquisition [5]. - Successful integration of Lexmark could provide significant upside potential for Xerox, despite current low growth prospects and high debt levels [8].

It could be a third time unlucky for UPS (UPS -0.75%) in 2025. Having failed to meet its initial full-year guidance in 2023, and then again in 2024, UPS is under real pressure to avoid doing so this year due to the slowdown in the economy. There's a strong case for buying the stock, but it would be even stronger if management decided to cut the dividend.The dividend is not well covered under the best of assumptionsInvestors should be wary when a blue-chip stock like UPS yields almost 7%. The market is hinti ...