Sun Sep 15 11:44:51 UTC 2024: ## Altria Group Sees Investor Interest Amid Dividend Increase

**New York, NY** – Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE: MO), the tobacco giant behind brands like Marlboro, saw increased interest from institutional investors in the second quarter. AGF Management Ltd. purchased a new position in Altria, acquiring 29,655 shares worth approximately $1,351,000.

Other notable investors like Gilbert & Cook Inc., Aveo Capital Partners LLC, 9258 Wealth Management LLC, Gryphon Financial Partners LLC, and Panagora Asset Management Inc. also adjusted their holdings in Altria during the fourth quarter.

This activity comes as Altria announced a dividend increase, raising its quarterly payout to $1.02 per share, representing an annualized dividend of $4.08 and a yield of 7.70%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, September 16th.

Analysts have mixed opinions on Altria’s future. While some, like Stifel Nicolaus, remain optimistic and raised their target price to $54.00, others like UBS Group maintain a “sell” rating with a target price of $41.00.

Currently, Altria’s stock is trading at $52.96 with a market capitalization of $90.36 billion.

**Key takeaways:**

* Institutional investors are showing interest in Altria Group.
* Altria increased its quarterly dividend, boosting its annualized payout to $4.08.
* Analyst opinions on the stock remain mixed.

**Disclaimer:** This is a summary of the provided text and should not be taken as financial advice.

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