The article recommends three lesser-known dividend stocks as defensive plays during market volatility: Hancock Whitney Corp. (2.53% yield), NewMarket Corp. (2.01% yield), and Horace Mann Educators Corp. (3.25% yield). Each company demonstrates strong fundamentals, sustainable dividend payouts, and growth potential despite recent market headwinds.

Hancock Whitney (HWC) stock has been struggling, but a hammer chart pattern and rising optimism among analysts about the company's future earnings suggest a potential trend reversal. The stock has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), indicating it could outperform the market.

Citi maintained its Buy rating on Hancock Whitney and raised the share price target, citing the bank's positive outlook for net interest margin expansion and profitability. The report suggests Hancock Whitney is in a solid position to manage its expenses and capital, leading to continued profitability.

Hancock Whitney, UnitedHealth, Eni S.p.A, FedEx and Hamilton Lane are part of the Zacks top Analyst Blog.

Five stocks with recent dividend hike in focus are: HWC, UNH, E, FDX, HLNE.

Hancock Whitney Corporation (HWC), Donaldson Company, Inc. (DCI), Royal Bank of Canada (RY) and NetApp, Inc. (NTAP) recently announced dividend hikes.

Hancock Whitney (NASDAQ:HWC) underwent analysis by 9 analysts in the last quarter, revealing a spectrum of viewpoints from bullish to bearish. The table below summarizes their recent ratings, showcasing the evolving sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months. Bullish Somewhat Bullish Indifferent Somewhat Bearish Bearish Total Ratings 3 2 4 0 0 Last 30D 0 1 0 0 0 1M Ago 1 0 0 0 0 2M Ago 2 1 4 0 0 3M Ago 0 0 0 0 0 Analysts' evaluations of 12-month price targets offer additional insights, showcasing an average target of $51.11, with a high estimate of $57.00 and a low estimate of $45.00. This current average has increased by 0.45% from the previous average price target of $50.88. Breaking Down Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Examination In examining recent analyst actions, we gain insights into how financial experts perceive Hancock Whitney. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets. Analyst Analyst Firm Action Taken Rating Current Price Target Prior Price Target William Jones Keefe, Bruyette & Woods Raises Outperform $55.00 $50.00 Benjamin Gerlinger Citigroup Raises Buy $55.00 $50.00 Benjamin Gerlinger Citigroup Raises Buy $50.00 $48.00 Gary Tenner DA Davidson Raises Buy $57.00 $55.00 Matt Olney Stephens & Co. Maintains Equal-Weight $50.00 - Stephen Scouten Piper Sandler Lowers Overweight $52.00 $55.00 Brandon King Truist Securities Lowers Hold $46.00 $50.00 Casey Haire Jefferies Lowers Hold $45.00 $51.00 Brandon King Truist Securities Raises Hold $50.00 $48.00 Key Insights: Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Hancock Whitney. ...Full story available on Benzinga.com

Investors need to pay close attention to Hancock Whitney (HWC) stock based on the movements in the options market lately.

Hancock Whitney (HWC) is well-poised for growth driven by solid loans, expansion initiatives, a rise in non-interest income and high rates. Yet, muted mortgage income and weak asset quality are woes.

Nicolet Bankshares (NIC) increases quarterly cash dividend to 28 cents per share. A strong balance sheet and decent liquidity position help the company to make its capital distribution plans sustainable.

F.N.B. (FNB) reported earnings 30 days ago. What's next for the stock? We take a look at earnings estimates for some clues.

Apollo Global Management (APO) announces a quarterly dividend hike of 7.6%. Given its decent liquidity and balance sheet position, this looks sustainable.