Of the 22 analysts covering the stock, 73% recommend a buy and 27% rate a hold. A consensus forecast of analysts polled by Bloomberg has average 12-month price target of $34.10 for the stock, about 12.6% higher than the current price.
The company reported strong revenue of $2.8 billion for the third quarter of 2011, an increase of 11% from $2.5 billion in the same quarter previous year. Operating income grew 30% to $310 million from $239 million in the prior year period. Net income stood at $130 million, or 24 cents per share. The company has raised its quarterly dividend by 5% to 22 cents per share, effective 2011 third quarter.
Marsh & McLennan completed a tender offer during the quarter that resulted in the retirement of an aggregate $600 million of the senior notes scheduled to mature in 2014 and 2015. The company also issued $500 million of 4.80% senior notes due 2021. Dividend paid on common shares for the first nine months of 2011 was $358 million, or 64 cents, vs. $333 million, or 60 cents per share, during the first nine months of 2010.
The company has invested $50 million in a new private equity fund that invests in financial services companies. In addition, MMC has commitments for potential future investments of approximately $80 million related to its investments in Trident II and other funds managed by Stone Point Capital. For the latest updates PRESS CTR + D or visit Stock Market news Today
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