Altria Group (NYSE: MO) has been a standout stock for decades, delivering an incredible total return of 124,000% since 1990. However, this year, the stock has lagged the market by nearly 25%. While this may be concerning for previous investors, it presents a golden opportunity for those looking to get into the stock now.
There are two compelling reasons why Altria stock is a buy right now. Firstly, the stock is a rare bargain in today’s market environment. With the S&P 500 trading at nearly 28 times earnings, Altria’s valuation at just 9.1 times earnings is extremely attractive. The company’s strong free-cash-flow yield of 11.6% and a dividend yield of around 9% make it a solid investment choice.
Secondly, Altria is a great option for investors worried about market volatility. During previous bear markets, Altria stock has shown resilience, losing only 5% of its value during the 2007-2009 financial crisis. With its recession-resistant products and stable cash flow, Altria is well-positioned to outperform the market in times of uncertainty.
Despite its recent underperformance compared to the S&P 500, Altria stock’s current cheap valuation and high dividend yield make it an attractive investment opportunity. For investors looking for a safe haven in a potentially volatile market, Altria Group may be the stock to consider.