Is this ASX 200 insurance company the ultimate dividend and capital growth stock?

Are you looking for both income and capital growth?

| More on:
Happy woman working on a laptop.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Many investors often believe they have to choose between dividends and capital growth. However, this ASX 200 insurance company has a long track record of delivering both. 

That company is Steadfast Group Ltd (ASX: SDF). 

It is Australia's largest general insurance broker and underwriting agency network. Steadfast focuses on small to medium enterprise (SME) businesses, which require the expertise of insurance brokers and agencies to assess and manage their commercial risks.

Steadfast has a track record of expansion through strategic acquisitions. In 2024, it acquired ISU Group, a major network of independent agencies in the US, and Sure Insurance, a specialised underwriting agency.

Recent results

Last week, Steadfast released its FY25 results. 

The company delivered EBITDA of $591.4 million, an increase of 12% on the prior corresponding period (pcp). Nearly 9% of that was derived from organic growth, while 3% was attributed to acquisitions. 

Management guided for FY26 EBITDA of between $650 and $665 million.

Investors can have it all

As mentioned, Steadfast has an enviable track record of delivering both attractive dividends and strong capital gains. 

Despite being down 4% over the past year, the ASX 200 stock is up around 86% over the past 5 years. 

The company also offers a current dividend yield of 3.14%. While that's not the biggest yield on the ASX, it's still relatively attractive. Steadfast's dividends are also fully franked, providing a further boost.

Is Steadfast a buy today?

One expert believes this is an attractive entry point for investors. 

After reviewing its FY25 results, Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) released an updated research note. 

The broker reiterated its outperform rating on the stock.

The broker said, "the ability to maximise returns on a US roll-out is key to SDF's long-term value". 

Macquarie also highlighted Steadfast's acquisition capacity, noting that the company can borrow a further $365 million while remaining within the maximum gearing ratio of 35%. 

The broker's price target remains unchanged at $7. 

Steadfast shares closed at $6.22 yesterday. This suggests the company will deliver capital growth of 13% over the next 12 months. 

Combined with Steadfast's dividend yield of around 3%, that's a total return of around 15% over the next year. 

Investors who achieve a 15% annual return will double their money in 5 years. 

Foolish Takeaway

With the ASX 200 just below record highs, investors may be finding it challenging to find value in an expensive market. However, with a history of moderately high dividends and strong capital growth, this ASX 200 company could appeal to a wide range of ASX investors. Those who want attractive passive income while growing their capital may want to look closely at Steadfast shares.

Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and Steadfast Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and Steadfast Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Financial Shares

Two people shake hands making a deal about green energy.
Broker Notes

Does Macquarie rate AUB Group shares a buy after the deal fell through?

The AUB Group takeover deal is dead, but the business is very much alive, with Macquarie still seeing good value…

Read more »

Accountant woman counting an Australian money and using calculator for calculating dividend yield.
Financial Shares

Own AMP shares? Here's your financial calendar for 2026

Macquarie says the next catalyst for AMP shares will be the FY25 results on 12 February.

Read more »

Man putting in a coin in a coin jar with piles of coins next to it.
Financial Shares

This insurance company is a compelling buy, despite a takeover falling through, analysts say

This insurance company's shares are still looking like good buying, analysts say, despite takeover suitors walking away from a potential…

Read more »

Two children hold on tightly to books hugged against their chests, as if they were holding on to ASX shares for the long term.
Financial Shares

Own IAG shares? Here are the dividend dates for 2026

Mark these dates in your diary for the new year.

Read more »

Happy young woman saving money in a piggy bank.
Broker Notes

This ASX All Ords stock has more than doubled investors' money since January. Here's why it's tipped to surge another 45%!

A leading broker expects more outsized gains from this rocketing ASX All Ords stock. Let’s see why.

Read more »

Happy couple at Bank ATM machine.
Financial Shares

Forget CBA shares and check out this buy-rated ASX financial stock

One leading broker thinks that investors should be buying this growing company's shares.

Read more »

Man holding Australian dollar notes, symbolising dividends.
Financial Shares

This insurance company has more than doubled its final dividend on record results

This Kiwi insurer has more than doubled its final dividend on record profit results.

Read more »

Ecstatic woman looking at her phone outside with her fist pumped.
Financial Shares

Why is everyone talking about Qube shares?

The shares are in the green again today.

Read more »