JACK HENRY & ASSOCIATES INC (NASDAQ:JKHY) was identified as a high-quality dividend stock through our screening process. The company combines a solid dividend track record with strong profitability and financial health, making it an interesting candidate for income-focused investors. Below, we examine why JKHY stands out.
Dividend Strength
Consistent Payouts: JKHY has paid dividends for at least 10 years without reductions, demonstrating reliability.
Growing Dividends: The company has increased its dividend at an average annual rate of 6.79%, indicating a commitment to shareholder returns.
Sustainable Payout Ratio: Only 37.87% of earnings are allocated to dividends, leaving ample room for reinvestment and future growth.
Profitability & Financial Health
High Profit Margins: JKHY maintains an 18.50% profit margin, outperforming 74.26% of its industry peers.
Strong Balance Sheet: With a low debt-to-equity ratio of 0.04 and an Altman-Z score of 12.12, the company is financially stable.
Efficient Capital Use: A return on invested capital (ROIC) of 16.61% highlights effective management.
Valuation Considerations
While JKHY trades at a premium with a P/E ratio of 31.69, its strong fundamentals and dividend growth may justify the valuation for long-term investors.