Stock of the Day: Aviva plc (LSE: AV)

Aviva is a major UK-listed insurance and financial services group, part of the FTSE 100, with roots going back to 1696. They offer general insurance, life & pensions, and fund management to millions of customers across the UK, Ireland, Canada, and beyond 

Quick Financial Snapshot:

• Market cap: ~£16 billion 

• Trailing P/E: ~26.4x; Forward P/E: ~12.8x

• Dividend yield: ~5.8 % – one of the highest in the FTSE 100 

• Latest payout: 23.8p per share, with predictable twice-annual payments 

Why It’s Worth a Look:

Aviva is a bit of a boring giant, but in a good, income-focused way. Insurance is largely a defensive business, and recent rising interest rates have helped their margins. The upcoming £3.6 bn Direct Line acquisition should increase their capital-light income lines, while the company is targeting steady dividend growth with a buyback on hold. 

this is one company I hold within my ISA, and one I will continue to build a bigger position in over time.