As we approach the halfway point for 2012, now's a good time to look back at what's happening with the stocks that interest you. By making sure you know the important things that a company accomplished -- as well as the setbacks it experienced -- you can make a better decision about whether it's a smart investment for your portfolio.
Today, let's take a look at Chimera Investment
Stats on Chimera
2012 YTD Return | 4.1% |
Market Capitalization | $2.59 billion |
Current Dividend per Share, Most Recent Quarter | $0.09 |
Change in Dividend, Past 2 Years | (50%) |
Forward Dividend Yield | 14.3% |
CAPS Rating | **** |
Source: S&P Capital IQ.
Why hasn't Chimera climbed higher?
Chimera's 4% gain over the past six months may not seem all that shabby, but it pales in comparison to the larger gains that some of its fellow mortgage REITs have enjoyed. Both Annaly Capital
Much of the disparity comes from Chimera's differing business model. Investing in non-agency debt, Chimera makes up for the relatively higher risk of its securities by taking on less leverage. By contrast, Annaly, American Capital, and ARMOUR Residential
Moreover, investors appear to be shying away from the stock, perhaps because it has been late in filing two consecutive quarterly reports. Chimera doesn't expect material problems, citing only difficulties in applying generally accepted accounting practice standards to some of its non-agency debt. Still, the delay reinforces the risk of these securities, which can be harder to value than their agency counterparts.
Even though the stock still has a very attractive yield, Chimera's dividend cuts have been problematic. Wall Street analysts are abandoning the stock, with one analyst citing the likelihood of further cuts as the REIT "recognizes losses more aggressively in its subordinated-nonagency investment portfolio."
Until the company gets its feet under it, shareholders should expect further turbulence. To get some ideas for dividend stocks with more stable prospects, check out The Motley Fool's special report on dividends. Inside, you'll discover nine stocks that will help you secure your future. It's free, so click here and get your copy today!
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