National Grid: The Dividend Still Looks Unsafe Long Term

  • National Grid's monopoly status attracts investors, but I see the shares as overvalued with a risky long-term dividend outlook after this year's cut. The recent dividend cut—masked by management as a 'rebased' increase—confirms my concerns about the sustainability of payouts amid heavy capex and debt. Despite a rights issue and rising share price, National Grid's cash flows remain weak relative to its massive capital needs and ongoing debt obligations.