
TSE:BCE
With Verizon (VZ-N) talking about coming into Canada, which telco would be the safest bet, Bell Canada (BCE-T) Telus (T-T) or Rogers (RCI.B-T)? Interestingly enough, Sprint in the US just announced that they are offering “guaranteed for life” unlimited data so there is a bit of competition in the US. BCE is probably the safest with Rogers having the most exposure. It is difficult to say what is going to happen with Verizon. The chart on this one shows the stock has dropped back but he wouldn’t be too concerned about that. There is a level of support at around the $40-$41 range.
She doesn’t own anything in the telecom space. They have all pulled back on the potential threat of Verizon entering into the Canadian market. If that does happen, she expects there will be a lot of instability in the market. If you own and have profits, she would take some profits at this time. Nothing wrong with the company. Dividend is definitely safe.
Took a big hit over the last couple of weeks because of Verizon looking at Wynd and Mobilicity. Feels that a good part of this is reflected in the price. This will pressure the wireless business for all 3 Cdn telcos. The least impact will be on Bell (BCE-T), so if you are really concerned about that and happy with the 5% dividend, consider buying a half position now and by your other half when you know Verizon has come.
Similar to ’07 when it was at low levels and was a terrific buying opportunity. BCE-T and T-T are the top performing telecom stocks in the world. BCE is in a sweet spot as they catch up to Rogers. Have great media properties. Sees them growing the dividend (5.7%) every year going forward. Fears about Verizon coming into Canada are overblown if they are even true. This one would be least affected if a big player did come in. Thinks the Astra deal will be approved tomorrow.
He sold a little bit early when the teachers take-over didn’t work. There is a bit of an issue with Verizon coming up here. BCE is a little bit troubled because they have wire line which is not growing. Dividend is safe. He is out of the Telco sector. Would own T-T if he owned anything in this sector, but recommends staying on the sidelines for now.