Is Great-West Lifeco Stock a Buy for its 4.65% Dividend Yield?

GWO stock has a strong dividend yield that looks mighty appealing. But is that enough to buy this stock?

| More on:
ways to boost income

Source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s premium investing services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Great-West Lifeco (TSX:GWO) on the TSX is a financial heavyweight, known for its consistent performance and strong dividend history. With the stock trading offering a dividend yield of 4.65%, it’s a tempting option for income-focused investors. However, like any investment, it’s essential to weigh both the positives and the challenges, especially considering the company’s sector and future outlook. So, let’s get into it.

Created with Highcharts 11.4.3Great-West Lifeco PriceZoom1M3M6MYTD1Y5Y10YALLwww.fool.ca

The sector

The financial sector, particularly insurance, where GWO stock operates, has faced struggles recently. Interest rate fluctuations and economic uncertainty have put pressure on insurers’ investment portfolios and operational margins. Despite these headwinds, GWO stock demonstrated resilience, posting a solid quarterly revenue growth of 12.6% year over year in its most recent earnings. This suggests that while the industry may be under pressure, GWO is navigating these challenges relatively well.

GWO’s recent earnings report paints a positive picture of profitability. With a profit margin of 11.32% and a return on equity of 13.21%, the company continues to generate robust returns for shareholders. Its quarterly earnings growth was a whopping 95.5%, indicating that GWO stock is on a strong upward trajectory. This kind of growth, coupled with stable revenue streams from its diverse operations, makes GWO stand out even amid broader sector struggles.

Still strong

From a financial health standpoint, GWO stock is in a good position. It has a total cash balance of over $172 billion — far exceeding its total debt of $9.14 billion. This gives the company a current ratio of 37.46, showing it has ample liquidity to cover its obligations. This strong balance sheet is a crucial factor in its ability to continue paying dividends. And this is a key appeal for long-term investors.

One concern for potential investors is the relatively low return on assets (ROA) of 0.73%. While not alarming, this figure is on the lower side, especially for a company of GWO stock’s size. It reflects the ongoing challenges in efficiently using its assets to generate returns. This is a common theme in the insurance sector. That said, its return on equity (ROE) at 13.21% is much more encouraging. This indicates that the company is effectively leveraging shareholders’ equity to produce profits.

Future outlook

Looking ahead, the forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 10.54 suggests that GWO stock is not overly expensive, considering its growth potential. Its valuation remains attractive compared to sector peers, and the stock is still trading below its 52-week high of $47.76. For investors looking for both value and income, this could signal a buying opportunity, especially if GWO can maintain its earnings momentum.

Sector-wise, the macroeconomic environment could continue to pose challenges for insurers, particularly if interest rates remain volatile. However, GWO stock’s strong fundamentals and history of weathering economic storms offer a layer of security. The company has also shown adaptability in the face of adversity, which bodes well for its future performance.

Bottom line

Altogether, GWO stock appears to be a solid investment choice, especially for income-seeking investors. The combination of its attractive dividend yield, strong financials, and reasonable valuation makes it appealing. While the sector faces some challenges, GWO stock’s consistent performance and growth outlook suggest it’s well-positioned to continue rewarding shareholders in the years to come.

Should you invest $1,000 in Baytex Energy right now?

Before you buy stock in Baytex Energy, consider this:

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor Canada analyst team just identified what they believe are the Top Stocks for 2025 and Beyond for investors to buy now… and Baytex Energy wasn’t one of them. The Top Stocks that made the cut could potentially produce monster returns in the coming years.

Consider MercadoLibre, which we first recommended on January 8, 2014 ... if you invested $1,000 in the “eBay of Latin America” at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $20,697.16!*

Stock Advisor Canada provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month – one from Canada and one from the U.S. The Stock Advisor Canada service has outperformed the return of S&P/TSX Composite Index by 29 percentage points since 2013*.

See the Top Stocks * Returns as of 3/20/25

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Fool contributor Amy Legate-Wolfe has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Confidently Navigate Market Volatility: Claim Your Free Report!

Feeling uneasy about the ups and downs of the stock market lately? You’re not alone. At The Motley Fool Canada, we get it — and we’re here to help. We’ve crafted an essential guide designed to help you through these uncertain times: "5-Step Checklist: How to Prepare Your Portfolio for Volatility."

Don't miss out on this opportunity for peace of mind. Just click below to learn how to receive your complimentary report today!

Get Our Free Report Today

More on Dividend Stocks

Canadian dollars are printed
Dividend Stocks

How I’d Use $10,000 to Transform My TFSA Into a Cash-Generating Machine

It may be grim out there, but there are plenty of sky-high dividend yields to choose from on the TSX…

Read more »

Canada day banner background design of flag
Dividend Stocks

Top Canadian Stocks to Buy Right Now With $5,000

Looking for some safe, long-term stocks? These Canadian stocks are where you should look first.

Read more »

Car, EV, electric vehicle
Dividend Stocks

Outlook for Magna Stock in 2025

Magna stock has sunk into the toilet, but it could now be one of the best undervalued stocks out there.

Read more »

alcohol
Dividend Stocks

Why I’d Consider These 3 Blue-Chip Dividend Stocks for a $20,000 Lifelong Investment

In a market correction, it’s essential to focus on blue-chip stocks that offer stability and long-term growth potential.

Read more »

Canadian dollars are printed
Dividend Stocks

Transform Your TFSA Into a Cash-Creating Machine With $14,000

Investing a total of $14,000 across these three stocks could earn you more than $1,039 in tax-free income each year.

Read more »

coins jump into piggy bank
Dividend Stocks

Where I’d Invest $12,000 in Canadian Stocks for Reliable Dividends

Want reliable dividends? Here's a trio of stocks that can provide a juicy income stacked for growth, even with a…

Read more »

Young Boy with Jet Pack Dreams of Flying
Dividend Stocks

Beginner Investors: 4 Top Canadians Stocks to Buy in 2025

If you're new to investing and looking for some Canadian stocks that are worry free, here's where to go.

Read more »

protect, safe, trust
Dividend Stocks

3 Canadian Stocks to Play Defence in a Trade War

Are you wondering what stocks could be safe to buy and hold through the market turmoil? Here are three to…

Read more »