Whitestone REIT - WSR STOCK NEWS

Whitestone REIT announced that Paul’s Ace Hardware has renewed its lease for 10 years and will expand its store by approximately 4,000 square feet at the Fountain Hills Plaza property in Arizona. This expansion will increase the store's size from 26,287 to 30,646 square feet, making it one of the largest Ace stores in the Phoenix Metro Area. The renewal strengthens the cash flows for Whitestone’s shareholders, contributing to the long-term security of the property. The center hosts other essential tenants, enhancing its appeal and community value.

Whitestone REIT (NYSE: WSR) reported a net income of $0.03 per diluted share for Q1 2021, totaling $1.4 million. Funds from Operations (FFO) decreased to $0.20 per share, down from $0.21 the previous year. Leasing transactions included 46 new leases totaling $19.9 million and renewal leases with a 9.6% growth rate. However, same-store Net Operating Income (NOI) declined by 4.3%. Despite challenges from COVID-19, 95% of rents were collected in Q1. The company reduced total net debt by $17.2 million, maintaining a balanced capital structure and increasing its dividend by 2.4%.

Whitestone REIT (NYSE:WSR) will report its Q1 financial results for the period ending March 31, 2021, after market close on May 4, 2021. The earnings conference call is scheduled for May 5, 2021, at 11:00 A.M. ET, hosted by CEO Jim Mastandrea and CFO Dave Holeman. Investors can access the call via the company's website, and a replay will be available until May 19, 2021. Whitestone REIT, focused on community-centered shopping centers, has maintained monthly dividends for over 15 years, underscoring its stable financial structure.

Whitestone REIT (NYSE: WSR) announced the appointment of Rebecca Elliott as Vice President of Corporate Communications, effective March 29, 2021. With over 30 years of experience, Elliott will lead corporate communications and investor relations. Chairman and CEO Jim Mastandrea expressed confidence in her ability to enhance stakeholder relationships and shareholder value. Elliott aims to advance Whitestone's growth strategy, focusing on community retail properties and operational excellence. Whitestone REIT has consistently paid monthly dividends for over 15 years.

Whitestone REIT (NYSE:WSR) announced a monthly cash dividend of $0.035833 per share, totaling $0.1075 quarterly and $0.43 annually. The upcoming payment dates are set for April 14, May 13, and June 10, 2021. This marks the company’s 130th consecutive monthly dividend distribution, reflecting its commitment to providing attractive yields despite economic challenges. Chairman Jim Mastandrea praised the sustainability of cash flows and the resilient tenant base, emphasizing that they will continue to support their communities' essential needs.

Whitestone REIT has announced significant leasing successes at its Las Colinas Village property in the thriving Dallas-Fort Worth market, increasing occupancy by 9.4% and NOI by 5.4%. The company's strategic focus on high-growth markets is supported by its location near major employers like ExxonMobil and Microsoft. New tenants, including CityVet and 9Round, are expected to enhance foot traffic as the area recovers post-pandemic. With a portfolio totaling approximately 670,000 square feet in DFW, Whitestone REIT continues to thrive with a strong capital structure.

Whitestone REIT (NYSE: WSR) announced its participation in the Inaugural Emerging Growth Virtual Conference from March 17-19, 2021. Presented by M Vest LLC and Maxim Group LLC, the conference will feature notable industry leaders across various sectors including healthcare, technology, and real estate. Attendees can expect roundtable discussions, issuer presentations, and live Q&A sessions with company executives. Whitestone, focused on community-centered shopping centers, aims to foster local connections within affluent markets, and has a history of consistent monthly dividend payments.

Whitestone REIT has enhanced its Fountain Hills Plaza property in Arizona by signing a lease with AutoZone, resulting in a 3.5% increase in occupancy and a 6.3% boost in net operating income. This strategic move not only diversifies tenant offerings but also strengthens cash flow for shareholders. The presence of AutoZone, alongside existing tenants like Bashas', Ace Hardware, and Verizon, highlights the community-centric approach of Whitestone, especially during the ongoing pandemic, which has shown increased foot traffic in the area.

Whitestone REIT (NYSE: WSR) reported a net income of $0.07 per diluted share for Q4 2020 and $0.14 for the full year. The company leads the shopping center industry in foot traffic recovery, achieving 80.4% of previous year's levels compared to the industry average of 48%. Despite challenges from COVID-19, 99% of tenants were open for business, and 95% of Q4 rents were collected. The company reduced total net debt by $12 million and recently increased its quarterly dividend to $0.1075 per share. Cash collections improved, reaching 96% in January 2021.