How does this August dividend compare to those of other senior‑living REITs and the broader market?
Dividend Yield Comparison
Sienna’s August payout of $0.078 per share (‑$0.936 annualized) translates to an annualized yield of roughly 6‑8 % based on the current trading range of $11‑$13 per share. This sits comfortably above the average dividend yield of the Canadian senior‑living REIT sector, which hovers around 5 %–6 % (e.g., Chartwell (0.05 × 12 = $0.60) → ~5 % yield; Extendicare (0.08 × 12 = $0.96) → ~6 % yield). The broader TSX composite dividend yield is currently near 4 %, and the S&P 500’s dividend yield sits around 1.8 %. In other words, Sienna’s dividend is 1–2 percentage points higher than the sector average and ~3‑4 % above the broad‑market benchmarks, making it relatively attractive on a yield‑only basis.
Trading Implications
The higher relative yield, combined with a stable payout track record, should keep income‑focused investors interested, especially as senior‑living REITs are generally seen as defensive assets. However, the premium yield is partly a function of Sienna’s lower share price (≈ $12) versus peers, meaning the market may be pricing in higher operating risk or growth constraints. Technicals show the stock holding just above its 50‑day moving average with modest upside potential; a break above the recent resistance at $13.20 could signal a continuation of the dividend‑supportive trend, while a drop below the 200‑day MA (~$11.40) might trigger a short‑term sell‑off despite the yield appeal.
Actionable Insight
- Long‑term income investors: Consider adding SIA at current levels to lock in a 6‑8 % yield; the valuation cushion offers downside protection.
- Short‑term traders: Watch for a breakout above $13.20 (high‑volume) to capture a potential upside rally; conversely, a breach of the $11.40 support could trigger a pull‑back, presenting a potential short‑term entry for those comfortable with higher volatility. In either case, maintain a stop‑loss at the 200‑day MA to protect against a sector‑wide shock (e.g., regulatory changes or funding cost spikes) that could compress the yield advantage.