Benefit from AT&T’s tighter focus

Article Excerpt

AT&T has decided to reverse two big acquisitions—WarnerMedia and DirecTV—and focus solely on its main wireless and high-speed Internet operations. The biggest part of this new strategy is the spinoff of WarnerMedia to cable broadcaster Discovery Inc. The merger better positions the new firm to expand its share of the fast-growing video-streaming market. AT&T will also use the cash it receives from the deal to build out its ultrafast 5G wireless networks. The stock fell over 10% on the announcement, as AT&T will cut its dividend after it completes the spinoff. However, the split into two pure-play firms should enhance your long-term returns. AT&T INC., $29 is a spinoff buy. The company (New York symbol T; Utilities sector; Shares outstanding: 7.1 billion; Market cap: $205.9 billion; Dividend yield: 7.2%; Takeover Target Rating: Medium; www.att.com) is the largest wireless carrier in the U.S. It also offers traditional phone and satellite TV services. Revenue fell 2.0%, from $163.8 billion in 2016 to $160.5 billion in 2017…