Mark Cuban Stock Portfolio: Top 10 Stock Picks

7. Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders as of Q4: 102

Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM), a global tobacco company, reported strong financial results for the fourth quarter of 2024. The company generated $9.7 billion in revenue, reflecting a 7.3% increase from the prior year. Operating income also saw substantial growth, rising 14.8% year-over-year to $3.3 billion. A key driver of this performance was the company’s continued expansion into smoke-free alternatives, with shipments of heated tobacco units (HTU) and oral nicotine products surpassing 40 billion units in a single quarter for the first time.

Looking ahead, Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM) expects adjusted annual earnings per share to range between $7.04 and $7.17, exceeding analysts’ expectations of $7.03. The company also projects a notable increase in ZYN shipments to the U.S., its largest market, with an estimated growth of 34% to 41%. IQOS shipments are also expected to rise by 10% to 12%. Analysts highlighted that PMI’s forecasts for profits, sales volume, and revenue were stronger than anticipated, boosting investor confidence. Historically, Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM) has been conservative in its early-year projections, leading to speculation that upward revisions may follow, further strengthening its stock performance.

Although Mark Cuban is not known for investing in Philip Morris, his preference for dividend-paying stocks, which he refers to as “real-world value generators,” aligns with the company’s strong dividend performance. Philip Morris remains a top choice for dividend investors, offering a quarterly payout of $1.35 per share. As of March 6, 2025, the stock carried a dividend yield of 3.58%, making it a potential candidate for investors following Cuban’s philosophy. With 15 consecutive years of dividend increases, Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM) has established itself as one of the most reliable dividend-paying stocks. This consistency in returns makes it particularly attractive for long-term investors seeking stable income. Therefore, those looking for a stable income-generating investment may find PM an appealing option.