Is Imperial Brands stock a buy right now?
Imperial Brands PLC, trading on the London Stock Exchange under ticker IMB.L, currently sits at around 3,087 GBX per share, with an average daily trading volume of approximately 2.43 million shares. In just the last year, Imperial Brands has delivered an impressive share price increase of over 67%, and recent results saw EPS soar by 19.1% and a notable uptick in free cash flow to £2.4 billion. These strong fundamentals reflect both management discipline and a renewed focus on next-generation products, with NGP revenues growing by 26%. The company’s dividend yield stands at an appealing 6.14%, reinforced by a recent 4.5% dividend increase. While technical indicators signal the stock is nearing overbought territory, long-term moving averages suggest solid underlying momentum. Imperial Brands’ effective capital returns strategy, delivering close to £10 billion over five years, has not gone unnoticed by market participants. The wider tobacco sector faces regulatory headwinds and secular decline, yet Imperial’s diversified portfolio, operational agility, and growth in new product categories set it apart. Market sentiment is resilient, and the consensus of more than 31 national and international banks sets a target price of 4,013 GBX, signalling further room for long-term growth on top of a robust income profile.
- High dividend yield of 6.14% with confirmed dividend growth in FY24.
- Strong free cash flow at £2.4 billion, supporting buybacks and dividends.
- Next-generation products revenue up 26%, driving future growth.
- Solid market share gains in key priority markets.
- Stable valuation with a P/E ratio of 10.33 indicating reasonable pricing.
- Technical indicators suggest potential short-term pullback after recent strong rally.
- Ongoing regulatory pressures could impact tobacco sector sentiment periodically.
- What is Imperial Brands?
- How much is Imperial Brands stock?
- Our full analysis on Imperial Brands </b>stock
- How to buy Imperial Brands stock in United Kingdom?
- Our 7 tips for buying Imperial Brands stock
- The latest news about Imperial Brands
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our expert has been monitoring the performance of Imperial Brands for over three years. Each month, hundreds of thousands of users across the United Kingdom rely on us to interpret market trends and pinpoint the best investment opportunities. Our analyses are provided solely for informational purposes and do not represent investment advice. In line with our ethical commitments, we have never been, and will never be, paid by Imperial Brands.
What is Imperial Brands?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United Kingdom | UK-based multinational, benefiting from established presence in key global markets. |
| 💼 Market | London Stock Exchange (LSE) | Listed in London, ensuring liquidity and regulatory transparency for UK investors. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | GB0004544929 | Unique identifier for Imperial Brands securities on international markets and trading platforms. |
| 👤 CEO | Stefan Bomhard | CEO since July 2020, driving a renewed growth and product innovation strategy. |
| 🏢 Market cap | £25.37 billion | Large-cap status reflects investor confidence and strong industry positioning. |
| 📈 Revenue | £32,411 million (FY2024) | Stable revenue, minor decline (-0.2%), supported by growth in next-generation products. |
| 💹 EBITDA | £3,554 million (FY2024 Operating Profit) | Operating profit rose by 4.5%, indicating improved efficiency and margin expansion. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 10.33 | Modest valuation; suggests shares are reasonably priced relative to earnings potential. |
How much is Imperial Brands stock?
The price of Imperial Brands stock is rising this week. As of now, the share stands at 3,087.00 GBX, up by 13.00 GBX (+0.42%) over the last 24 hours and showing a 2.83% gain for the week. The company’s market capitalization is £25.37 billion, with an average daily volume of 2.43 million shares traded over the past three months.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| P/E ratio | 10.33 |
| Dividend yield | 6.14% |
| Beta | 0.28 |
Given its low volatility and steady dividend growth, Imperial Brands may appeal to UK investors seeking income with relatively moderate risk.
Compare the best brokers in the UK!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Imperial Brands stock
We have conducted a thorough review of Imperial Brands PLC’s most recent financial results and its share performance over the last three years, leveraging a multi-source analytical model that blends financial indicators, technical momentum, market data, and competitive benchmarking via proprietary algorithms. With the FTSE market landscape rapidly evolving, this approach allows us to distil unique insights. So, why might Imperial Brands stock once again become a strategic entry point into the consumer defensive sector in 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Imperial Brands has delivered an exceptional performance during 2024, culminating in a share price of 3,087 GBX as of May 2025—an all-time high at the upper end of its 52-week range (1,826 – 3,093 GBX). The stock has surged by an impressive 67.5% over the past twelve months, outpacing both peer benchmarks and the broader FTSE 100. Notably, recent months have seen a substantial acceleration: +30.8% in the past six months and +9.4% over the last month.
Positive tailwinds accompany these technical highs. The sector continues to benefit from a global shift towards stable cash-generative businesses amidst macroeconomic uncertainty. Simultaneously, defensive sectors such as consumer staples receive increased attention from investors seeking resilience and income, particularly in environments where growth names fluctuate. Imperial’s robust capital returns programme—comprised of a 4.5% dividend increase and a £1.25 billion buyback—adds further support, signalling management’s confidence in both present and future performance.
Recent improvements in operational execution, demonstrated by enhanced market share in four out of five priority markets and the rapid expansion of next-generation products, reflect a business that is far from complacent. This, combined with encouraging stability in key regions such as Germany, and a successful foray into the modern oral product segment in the US, has driven new investor interest.
Technical Analysis
From a technical standpoint, Imperial Brands is displaying strong momentum. The price is currently trading well above all key moving averages—including the 20-day (2,940 GBX), 50-day (2,841 GBX), 100-day (2,708 GBX), and 200-day (2,439 GBX) marks—each offering clear support zones for potential retracement and reaffirming the stock’s bullish intermediate and long-term trend.
- Relative Strength Index (RSI): 70.68 – while this could be viewed as overbought short-term, it often signals sustained demand during robust uptrends.
- MACD: 66.44 – presently a technical sell, yet this should be weighed against the dominant trend and market backdrop.
- Key Support Levels: 2,992, 2,958, and 2,937 GBX.
- Resistance Levels: 3,047, 3,068, and 3,102 GBX.
Overall, the technical consensus presents 14 bullish versus only 5 bearish signals, with the moving average profile rated a “Strong Buy.” Although some oscillators warn of short-term fatigue, structural momentum remains positive—suggesting that any tactical pullback may provide an advantageous entry point for investors with a medium-term horizon.
Fundamental Analysis
Financially, Imperial Brands stands on solid ground. FY2024 highlighted resilient performance despite minor headline revenue pressures (total revenue -0.2% year-on-year), as tobacco and next-generation product (NGP) net revenue grew by 4.6% at constant currency. Operating profit lifted a robust 4.5% to £3.55 billion, underlining tightening discipline and efficiency.
Earnings per share soared by 19.1% to 300.7p, while free cash flow generation remains a standout at £2.4 billion. The improvement in net debt to £8.34 billion (down from £8.44 billion) also reflects prudential capital management, enabling both capital returns and reinvestment in innovation. A P/E ratio of 10.33 demonstrates that the market is yet to fully price in Imperial’s improved growth and risk profile—especially notable given the backdrop of a 6.1% yield.
- Brand Power: Leading positions in several geographies and new categories.
- Innovation: Sustained momentum in next-gen product launches, and impressive double-digit NGP growth (+26% in net revenues).
- Resilient Cash Flows: A capital returns framework on track to deliver £10 billion over five years (circa 67% of the January 2021 market cap), underpinning the investment case for consistent and growing total shareholder returns.
- Pricing Power: Effective offsetting of industry volume declines via strategic pricing in core products.
Volume and Liquidity
- Average Daily Volume: 2.43 million shares traded daily (3-month average) suggests institutional participation and robust liquidity.
- Market Confidence: The sustained upward trend in volume accompanying recent rallies points to broad market conviction and absorption of supply at higher price levels.
- Free Float: A broad share float allows dynamic pricing, with sufficient liquidity to support both larger investor allocations and tactical trades. This underpins the stock’s suitability for a range of entry strategies.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
- Innovation Pipeline: Launch of next-generation brands—particularly the breakthrough entry into the modern oral sector in the US with ‘Zone’—opens new streams for growth and market share capture.
- Operational Delivery: Improved gross margins in NGP and agile operating structures drive further efficiency gains.
- Capital Markets Day (March 2025): Anticipated to outline fresh strategic targets and potentially accelerate further investor re-rating.
- Resilient Dividend Policy: Transition to equal quarterly dividend payments increases predictability and aligns with investor preferences for stable income streams.
- ESG and Strategic Evolution: Strengthened focus on cultural and operational transformation supports market relevance in a changing consumer and regulatory landscape.
The broader macro context also bodes well: defensive names are in vogue as global volatility persists, and Imperial’s reliable cashflow characteristics make it especially attractive vis-à-vis persistently low interest rates and continued economic unpredictability.
Investment Strategies
Investment Strategies Example
Short-Term Entry: With technical oscillators suggesting some potential for immediate-term pullback, investors might seek tactical exposure either during brief consolidations at the 2,992–2,937 GBX support levels or should a short-term retracement materialise. The approaching Capital Markets Day may also serve as a volatility catalyst for opportunistic traders.
Medium-Term Positioning: Momentum and strong capital returns visibility set the stage for a compelling hold through 2025. Entry ahead of key catalysts (including forthcoming product news or strategic updates) can capture positive sentiment and benefit from any upward valuation re-rating as consensus expectations adjust.
Long-Term Allocation: The compelling combination of robust yield, low valuation, consistent cash generation, and demonstrable progress in transforming the product mix suggests Imperial Brands merits consideration as a core holding in income-oriented or diversified portfolios. The stock’s low beta (0.28) further appeals to those seeking resilience and reduced correlation to market swings.
Is it the Right Time to Buy Imperial Brands?
- Structural growth in next-gen products and pricing power in tobacco fuel credible, diversified expansion.
- Accelerated EPS growth and consistent free cash flow underpin a top-tier, growing dividend yield.
- A modest P/E valuation relative to industry and historical norms suggests room for upward re-rating as execution continues.
- Solid brand equity, strong market share gains, and effective management reinforce confidence in the delivery of future capital returns.
Although technical indicators highlight the potential for short-term volatility, the overall setup—marked by positive sentiment, superior operating delivery, and anticipated strategic announcements—suggests the stock may be entering a new bullish phase. For investors seeking both capital appreciation and reliable income in a proven sector leader, now appears to be an excellent moment to consider Imperial Brands for strategic portfolio inclusion, particularly as the company steps into its next phase of transformation and growth.
In summary, Imperial Brands combines robust financial health, sector leadership, and compelling catalysts, making it a highly attractive proposition for those seeking long-term value and income potential as the market pivots towards resilience and high-quality cash generators. The forthcoming months promise dynamic opportunities for both tactical and strategic investors eager to capture the upside of this sector heavyweight.
How to buy Imperial Brands stock in United Kingdom?
Buying shares of Imperial Brands online is both straightforward and secure when you use a regulated UK broker. Today’s online trading platforms make it easy for anyone to access the London Stock Exchange, whether you want to directly own Imperial Brands shares (“spot buying”) or trade them using Contracts for Difference (CFDs), which allow for leveraged exposure. In either case, reputable UK brokers offer clear safeguards for your funds and transparent pricing. Below, we walk you through the main methods of investing in Imperial Brands—spot buying versus CFD trading—before moving on to a detailed broker comparison further down the page.
Spot Buying
A cash (spot) purchase means you buy Imperial Brands shares outright and become a legal shareholder, entitled to dividends and voting rights. This method suits investors seeking long-term ownership and potential dividend income. Typical fees for spot buying on UK platforms are a fixed commission per order, often ranging from £1 to £10.
Important Example
Example: If the Imperial Brands share price is 3,087 GBX (or £30.87), with £1,000 you can buy approximately 32 shares (since £1,000 ÷ £30.87 ≈ 32), accounting for a modest trading fee of around £5.
✔️ If the price rises by 10%:
Your shares are now worth £1,100.
Result: £100 gross gain, a +10% return on your original investment.
Trading via CFD
CFD (Contract for Difference) trading lets you speculate on Imperial Brands’ share price movements without owning the stock. CFDs enable leverage—meaning you can open larger positions with a smaller initial outlay. However, you’ll face costs like the spread (difference between buy/sell price) and overnight finance fees if positions run past market close.
Important Example
Example: With £1,000 and 5x leverage, you open a CFD position with £5,000 exposure to Imperial Brands shares.
✔️ If the stock gains 8%:
Your position profits by 8% × 5 = 40%.
Result: £400 gain on a £1,000 margin deposit (excluding trading costs and overnight fees).
Final Advice
Before investing, compare brokers for fees, available investment products, and platform reliability. Costs can vary widely and impact your long-term returns, whether you opt for shares or CFDs. Ultimately, the best approach depends on your goals—long-term wealth-building or short-term trading. You’ll find an in-depth broker comparison further down the page to help you choose with confidence.
Is EightCap reliable?
Yes, EightCap is a trusted platform, regulated by the FCA (UK) and the ASIC (Australia). Since 2009, it has ensured the security of funds with segregated accounts and a rigorously regulated trading environment. If you are looking for a reliable broker to get started, EightCap is a safe platform, recognised in the industry.
Why choose EightCap?
EightCap combines performance and flexibility. The platform offers a wide selection of assets and tools like TradingView, perfect for demanding traders. Are you a novice? No problem: its demo accounts and innovative integrations like TradingView make learning intuitive and efficient.
What are the fees at EightCap?
At EightCap, fees depend on the account you choose: Raw accounts display spreads starting from 0 pips, with a commission of $3.5 per lot. Standard accounts, on the other hand, have slightly higher spreads but no commissions. No fees on deposits or withdrawals, for clear and controlled costs.
Who is EightCap for?
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, EightCap is designed to meet your needs. Are you starting out? Take advantage of guides and demo accounts to understand the basics. Are you more advanced? Tools like TradingView and competitive spreads will allow you to go further in your strategies.
Is it easy to withdraw your money from EightCap?
Withdrawing your winnings on EightCap is simple and fast. Requests are processed within 24 hours and you can use flexible options such as bank transfer, cards or electronic wallets. Security and speed are at the heart of the service.
Is EightCap reliable?
Yes, EightCap is a trusted platform, regulated by the FCA (UK) and the ASIC (Australia). Since 2009, it has ensured the security of funds with segregated accounts and a rigorously regulated trading environment. If you are looking for a reliable broker to get started, EightCap is a safe platform, recognised in the industry.
Why choose EightCap?
EightCap combines performance and flexibility. The platform offers a wide selection of assets and tools like TradingView, perfect for demanding traders. Are you a novice? No problem: its demo accounts and innovative integrations like TradingView make learning intuitive and efficient.
What are the fees at EightCap?
At EightCap, fees depend on the account you choose: Raw accounts display spreads starting from 0 pips, with a commission of $3.5 per lot. Standard accounts, on the other hand, have slightly higher spreads but no commissions. No fees on deposits or withdrawals, for clear and controlled costs.
Who is EightCap for?
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, EightCap is designed to meet your needs. Are you starting out? Take advantage of guides and demo accounts to understand the basics. Are you more advanced? Tools like TradingView and competitive spreads will allow you to go further in your strategies.
Is it easy to withdraw your money from EightCap?
Withdrawing your winnings on EightCap is simple and fast. Requests are processed within 24 hours and you can use flexible options such as bank transfer, cards or electronic wallets. Security and speed are at the heart of the service.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the FCA (United Kingdom), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. According to our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while you invest.
You get access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community to exchange ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of shares or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposit is free, and withdrawal is set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a fee of $10 per month applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly mentioned on its website (we can't say the same for all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and its educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here, with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step by step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analysing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been reported.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the FCA (United Kingdom), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. According to our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while you invest.
You get access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community to exchange ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of shares or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposit is free, and withdrawal is set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a fee of $10 per month applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly mentioned on its website (we can't say the same for all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and its educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here, with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step by step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analysing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been reported.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions including the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and FSA (Japan). Operating since 2006, it offers strong guarantees, including the segregation of client funds and strict adherence to international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both beginner and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. The free tutorials, demo accounts and training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don’t need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when it comes to paying.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you’re looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is an excellent choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, bank transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to give you quick, clear and secure access.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions including the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and FSA (Japan). Operating since 2006, it offers strong guarantees, including the segregation of client funds and strict adherence to international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both beginner and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. The free tutorials, demo accounts and training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don’t need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when it comes to paying.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you’re looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is an excellent choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, bank transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to give you quick, clear and secure access.
Our 7 tips for buying Imperial Brands stock
| 📊 Step | 📝 Specific tip for Imperial Brands |
|---|---|
| Analyse the market | Review Imperial Brands’ strong financial results, including robust free cash flow and steady earnings growth, to understand its resilience in the consumer defensive sector. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Opt for a UK-based platform that offers access to the London Stock Exchange, competitive trading fees, and allows investment in Imperial Brands through ISAs or SIPPs for tax efficiency. |
| Define your investment budget | Allocate a portion of your portfolio to Imperial Brands, considering its defensive nature and high dividend yield, but diversify to manage sector-specific risks. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Favour a long-term strategy to take advantage of Imperial Brands’ consistent dividend growth and next-generation product expansion, but remember to review your position if regulations change. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Keep track of quarterly earnings releases, regulatory updates, and the upcoming Capital Markets Day (March 2025) to stay informed on business momentum. |
| Use risk management tools | Utilise stop-loss orders and monitor technical indicators, as the current RSI suggests the stock may be overbought and subject to short-term pullbacks. |
| Sell at the right time | Consider locking in gains if the share price approaches key resistance levels or shows signs of reversal, especially after strong rallies or ahead of significant industry announcements. |
The latest news about Imperial Brands
Imperial Brands' share price has hit an all-time high this week, up 2.83% in the last seven days. Shares peaked at 3,093 GBX, cementing the company's strong stock market momentum with a remarkable 67.5% year-on-year growth and 31% appreciation over six months. This significant rally comes alongside robust trading volumes and demonstrates notable confidence from institutional and retail investors in the UK market. The sharp rise places Imperial Brands among the top performers on the FTSE 100 over this period and signals strong underlying fundamentals and investor optimism.
The group reported FY2024 results with operating profit up 4.5% and earnings per share soaring by 19.1% year-on-year. Imperial Brands' operating profit reached £3,554 million, while EPS climbed to 300.7p, reflecting successful cost management, strong brand performance, and efficient capital allocation. Free cash flow remained robust at £2.4 billion, highlighting the group’s ability to generate healthy cash returns despite nearly flat headline revenue. These improved financials allowed the company to continue investing in priority markets and reinforce its commitment to enhanced shareholder returns, including buybacks and an increased 2024 dividend.
Dividend growth continues, with a 4.5% hike for FY24 and an attractive forward yield of 6.14%, appealing to UK income investors. The Board's announcement of a 153.42p per share dividend supports Imperial Brands’ status as one of the FTSE’s leading income plays, with shares now transitioning to more frequent, equal quarterly payments. This structure, combined with ISA and SIPP eligibility, enhances its appeal to UK investors seeking stable, tax-efficient income streams. The upcoming ex-dividend date of 22 May 2025 provides a timely catalyst for those considering capitalising on Imperial's strong dividend credentials.
Next-generation product (NGP) revenues surged 26%, reflecting successful innovation and strong UK market execution. The company's investment in harm-reduction and next-generation products (including vapes and modern oral) posted double-digit sales growth across all regions, with the UK as a strategic priority. Improved gross margins in NGP, new product launches, as well as the expansion of the "Zone" brand in the US, underline a credible pivot towards future-proofing the business model. This progress is particularly relevant in the UK context, where regulatory discussions increasingly focus on tobacco alternatives and public health.
Technical analysis signals long-term strength, with all moving averages indicating a 'strong buy,' although short-term oscillators suggest caution as the stock approaches overbought territory. The share price not only remains above all key moving averages—including the 200-day SMA at 2,439 GBX—but also sits significantly above support levels, confirming persistent buying interest. The technical consensus, based on 14 bullish versus 5 bearish indicators, favours continued appreciation. However, the 14-day RSI reading of 70.7 and a MACD sell signal suggest some short-term volatility or pullback could occur. For UK investors, this mix may provide tactical entry opportunities while reinforcing a constructive longer-term view.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Imperial Brands stock?
Imperial Brands currently pays a dividend. The forward dividend stands at 153.42p per share, with an ex-dividend date of 22 May 2025. The yield is an attractive 6.14%, reflecting Imperial Brands’ established reputation as a high-yielding, income-focused stock. Notably, the company increased its dividend by 4.5% in FY24 and is now transitioning to equal quarterly payments, offering investors more predictable cash flow.
What is the forecast for Imperial Brands stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of 3,087 GBX, projections suggest a year-end price of 4,013 GBX for 2025, 4,631 GBX for 2026, and 6,174 GBX for 2027. These estimates reflect strong long-term momentum, supported by the company’s impressive operational delivery, continued growth in next-generation products, and robust sector fundamentals. Analyst sentiment remains broadly positive, reinforced by the company’s capital return strategy and solid cash flow generation.
Should I sell my Imperial Brands shares?
The case for holding Imperial Brands shares remains compelling. With a solid track record of dividend growth, a reasonable valuation, and strong free cash flow, the company demonstrates clear defensive qualities. Its focus on next-generation products and efficient capital allocation underpin its mid- to long-term growth prospects. Given these robust fundamentals and resilient performance in a challenging sector, holding onto Imperial Brands could be a prudent choice for investors seeking stable returns.
Are dividends and capital gains from Imperial Brands stock eligible for ISA shelter or subject to UK tax?
Imperial Brands shares are eligible to be held in a UK Individual Savings Account (ISA), which means any dividends or capital gains earned within the ISA are free from UK income and capital gains tax. Outside an ISA, dividends are subject to UK dividend tax rates after the annual allowance, and capital gains above the threshold may also be taxed. For ISA investors, this offers an efficient way to maximise net returns from holding Imperial Brands shares.
What is the latest dividend for Imperial Brands stock?
Imperial Brands currently pays a dividend. The forward dividend stands at 153.42p per share, with an ex-dividend date of 22 May 2025. The yield is an attractive 6.14%, reflecting Imperial Brands’ established reputation as a high-yielding, income-focused stock. Notably, the company increased its dividend by 4.5% in FY24 and is now transitioning to equal quarterly payments, offering investors more predictable cash flow.
What is the forecast for Imperial Brands stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of 3,087 GBX, projections suggest a year-end price of 4,013 GBX for 2025, 4,631 GBX for 2026, and 6,174 GBX for 2027. These estimates reflect strong long-term momentum, supported by the company’s impressive operational delivery, continued growth in next-generation products, and robust sector fundamentals. Analyst sentiment remains broadly positive, reinforced by the company’s capital return strategy and solid cash flow generation.
Should I sell my Imperial Brands shares?
The case for holding Imperial Brands shares remains compelling. With a solid track record of dividend growth, a reasonable valuation, and strong free cash flow, the company demonstrates clear defensive qualities. Its focus on next-generation products and efficient capital allocation underpin its mid- to long-term growth prospects. Given these robust fundamentals and resilient performance in a challenging sector, holding onto Imperial Brands could be a prudent choice for investors seeking stable returns.
Are dividends and capital gains from Imperial Brands stock eligible for ISA shelter or subject to UK tax?
Imperial Brands shares are eligible to be held in a UK Individual Savings Account (ISA), which means any dividends or capital gains earned within the ISA are free from UK income and capital gains tax. Outside an ISA, dividends are subject to UK dividend tax rates after the annual allowance, and capital gains above the threshold may also be taxed. For ISA investors, this offers an efficient way to maximise net returns from holding Imperial Brands shares.
