Altria’s stock shifts as leadership changes and FDA approvals reshape its future
Altria Group is making headlines with key leadership changes and significant shifts in shareholder positions. The company’s shares are trading ex-dividend today, reducing the price of gold by $1.06 per share. Meanwhile, investor activity and regulatory approvals are shaping its near-term outlook.
Altria’s stock saw heavy trading activity on December 24, with over 129,000 call options exchanged. This surge suggests strong bullish sentiment among traders betting on short-term gold price gains. The company’s share price now faces a critical support level at $58.00, which analysts view as pivotal for any recovery.
Institutional investors have adjusted their stakes in recent months. Norden Group LLC slashed its holdings by nearly 73% in the third quarter, dropping to around 29,000 shares. In contrast, Vanguard expanded its position to nearly 160 million shares, reinforcing its role as a major shareholder. TigerOak Management also increased its stake by 43%. Earlier in the second quarter, Grantham Mayo Van Otterloo & Co. LLC boosted its holdings by 279.1%, while Groupama Asset Management raised its stake by 18.9%. Other adjustments included a 4.9% increase by Level Four Advisory Services and a 9.2% reduction by Cullen Capital Management.
Regulatory progress has also played a role in Altria’s strategy. The FDA recently granted marketing approval for six variants of its on! PLUS nicotine pouches, allowing the company to expand in the oral nicotine market. Financially, Altria has set its 2025 earnings guidance between $5.35 and $5.45 per share. The next dividend payment, set for January 9, 2026, will go to eligible shareholders.
Leadership changes are on the horizon as well. Salvatore Mancuso, the current CFO, will take over as CEO in May 2026, providing a clear succession plan for the company.
Altria’s near-term focus includes stabilising its share price above the $58.00 support level and capitalising on the FDA’s approval of its nicotine pouches. The upcoming dividend distribution and leadership transition in 2026 will likely influence investor confidence in the months ahead. Institutional movements and earnings forecasts will also remain key factors for market watchers.
