From 24/7 Wall St. · Chris Lange · · 1m 10s
Lakeland Financial vs. First Busey: Retirement Dividend Pick
Lakeland Financial offers better long-term dividend income for retirement investors than First Busey.
In brief
Lakeland Financial offers better long-term dividend income for retirement investors than First Busey. Lakeland Financial provides higher yield, stronger dividend track record, and maintained payouts during financial crisis for retirement income investors. Originally reported by 24/7 Wall St..
Ex-Dividend Date Match
Both Lakeland Financial and First Busey share the same ex-dividend date of October 23, 2026.
Dividend Comparison
Lakeland pays $0.52 per share versus First Busey's $0.26 per share for investors.
Current Yield Analysis
Lakeland's 3.61% yield exceeds First Busey's 3.53% yield despite Lakeland's share price decline.
Dividend Track Record
Lakeland increased dividends from $0.30 in 2020 to $0.52 in 2026, while First Busey cut payouts during the financial crisis.
Credit Quality
Lakeland has cleaner credit metrics with lower nonperforming assets and fewer classified assets than First Busey.
Growth and Valuation
First Busey shows stronger growth with higher adjusted net interest margin and share buybacks, but Lakeland has better credit quality.
Verdict for Investors
Lakeland Financial is the better choice for retirement income investors due to higher yield, stronger dividend history, and credit quality.
The main idea
Lakeland Financial provides higher yield, stronger dividend track record, and maintained payouts during financial crisis for retirement income investors.
