Imperial Brands has an 8.3% dividend yield – but what’s the catch?

With an impressive dividend yield of 8.3%, Imperial Brands looks to be one of the most attractive income stocks in the FTSE 100 . But investors should beware, says Rupert Hargreaves. Imperial’s stock looks cheap – but there are good reasons for that.

Imperial Brands office
Imperial Brands still has lots of work to do
(Image credit: © Jason Alden/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

On the face of it, Imperial Brands (LSE: IMB) looks to be one of the most attractive income stocks in the FTSE 100 with a prospective dividend yield of 8% for 2022 and 8.1% for 2023.

Refinitiv analyst estimates also have the stock trading at a forward price/earnings (p/e) multiple of 6.9.

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Rupert Hargreaves
Contributor and former deputy digital editor of MoneyWeek

Rupert is the former deputy digital editor of MoneyWeek. He's an active investor and has always been fascinated by the world of business and investing. His style has been heavily influenced by US investors Warren Buffett and Philip Carret. He is always looking for high-quality growth opportunities trading at a reasonable price, preferring cash generative businesses with strong balance sheets over blue-sky growth stocks.

Rupert has written for many UK and international publications including the Motley Fool, Gurufocus and ValueWalk, aimed at a range of readers; from the first timers to experienced high-net-worth individuals. Rupert has also founded and managed several businesses, including the New York-based hedge fund newsletter, Hidden Value Stocks. He has written over 20 ebooks and appeared as an expert commentator on the BBC World Service.