Automatic Data Processing: A Dividend King To Buy Now
Finance

Automatic Data Processing: A Dividend King To Buy Now

authorBy Morgan Housel
DateMay 18, 2026
Read time2 min
This article explores Automatic Data Processing (ADP), a company with a strong market position and consistent dividend growth. It delves into ADP's financial stability, growth projections, and undervaluation, making a case for its investment potential.

Unlock Long-Term Gains: Your Next Dividend King Awaits

Market Overreactions and Hidden Opportunities: The Case for ADP

Financial markets often exhibit exaggerated reactions, especially in the face of alarming headlines. In periods dominated by fears of automation driven by generative AI and widespread corporate layoffs, investors frequently discard promising assets without thorough evaluation. This article argues that Automatic Data Processing (ADP) currently presents one such undervalued opportunity, defying prevailing market anxieties.

Automatic Data Processing: A Dividend King with Unrivaled Strengths

Automatic Data Processing, a true Dividend King, possesses a formidable economic moat, robust growth prospects, and a highly reliable dividend payout. The company's recent upward revision of its revenue growth forecast to 6-7% and its adjusted diluted EPS growth to 10-11% for fiscal year 2026 underscores its enduring financial health and strategic positioning. Furthermore, ADP maintains an impressive AA- S&P credit rating with a stable outlook, reflecting its exceptional creditworthiness and resilience.

Assessing ADP's Undervaluation and Future Returns

Despite its strong fundamentals, ADP shares are currently trading at a significant discount, approximately 28% below my estimated fair value. This undervaluation suggests substantial upside potential. Projections indicate that ADP could deliver a remarkable 51% total return by the conclusion of fiscal year 2027, with annual total returns potentially exceeding 17% through fiscal year 2031. These figures highlight ADP's compelling investment proposition for long-term growth and income-focused investors.

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