Pocket Option
App for

How to Buy Service Corporation International (SCI) Shares - Investment in Service Corporation International (SCI) Stock

25 August 2025
6 min to read
How to buy Service Corporation International (SCI) shares – Investment in Service Corporation International (SCI) stock

Thinking about investing in a company that serves one of life's certainties? Service Corporation International dominates the deathcare industry with steady demand and predictable cash flows. This isn't just about funeral homes—it's about owning a piece of North America's largest provider of essential services that families need during life's most difficult moments. Let's explore why SCI represents a unique investment opportunity in 2025.

Understanding Service Corporation International (SCI) Stock Performance

Current Price Snapshot

As of August 25, 2025, Service Corporation International (SCI) shares trade at $81.50 on the NYSE. The stock has shown remarkable resilience, gaining 4.46% over the past month and 6.62% year-over-year, demonstrating the defensive nature of this essential services provider.

Critical Date Alert: October 29, 2025

Mark your calendar—this is when SCI releases Q3 2025 earnings after market close. Historically, earnings reports have significantly moved SCI’s stock price. The company’s last quarterly report on July 30, 2025, showed impressive results with EPS beating estimates by $0.04 and revenue growing 3.0% year-over-year to $1.07 billion.

Earnings Impact Analysis

Looking at recent performance patterns:

  • February 2025 (Q4 2024): Stock gained momentum following strong guidance of $3.70-$4.00 adjusted EPS
  • April 2025 (Q1 2025): Price surged after reporting $0.98 GAAP EPS (10% growth) and $311M operating cash flow
  • July 2025 (Q2 2025): Continued positive momentum with revenue growth and cash flow strength

The pattern is clear: SCI consistently delivers solid results that typically translate into stock appreciation around earnings periods.

6-Month Price Journey: Steady Growth Story

SCI’s stock has demonstrated impressive stability with gradual appreciation over the past six months:

Month Price Range Key Drivers
March 2025 $75-78 Post-winter season strength
April 2025 $79-82 Q1 earnings beat expectations
May 2025 $77-80 Market consolidation phase
June 2025 $81-83 Dividend announcement boost
July 2025 $76-79 Summer seasonal adjustment
August 2025 $80-83 Recovery and growth momentum

The overall trend shows a 7.2% increase from March lows to current levels, reflecting the company’s consistent execution and market confidence.

Price Forecast: 2025-2030 Outlook

2025 Year-End Target: $90-95BUY
Analysts remain bullish with an average price target of $90.25. The company’s confirmed guidance of $3.70-$4.00 adjusted EPS and strong cash flow generation support this optimistic outlook.

2026 Forecast: $95-105
Continued market share expansion and operational efficiencies should drive further appreciation. The demographic trend of aging baby boomers provides a natural tailwind for the deathcare industry.

2028 Projection: $115-135
By 2028, SCI’s scale advantages and brand dominance should translate into sustained earnings growth. The company’s extensive network of 1,485 funeral homes and 498 cemeteries creates significant barriers to entry for competitors.

2030 Long-Term Vision: $130-160
Long-term demographic shifts and potential industry consolidation could propel SCI to new heights. The company’s strategic position in an essential industry makes it a compelling hold for patient investors.

Risk Assessment: What Could Go Wrong?

Regulatory Risks

Funeral industry regulations continue to evolve, potentially increasing compliance costs. Recent consumer protection initiatives could impact pricing flexibility.

Economic Sensitivity

While deathcare is relatively recession-resistant, premium services may experience demand softening during economic downturns. Higher-end memorial products could see reduced spending.

Demographic Timing

The anticipated “silver tsunami” of baby boomer passings represents both opportunity and risk—if mortality rates don’t align with projections, growth could slow.

Competition Intensification

Smaller, localized providers and digital disruptors are entering the market with innovative approaches to funeral services.

Positive Signals: Why SCI Shines in 2025

Cash Flow Powerhouse

SCI generated $311.1 million in operating cash flow last quarter—a 41% increase year-over-year. This financial strength supports continued dividend payments and share repurchases.

Market Dominance

With approximately 13% market share in North America, SCI benefits from economies of scale that smaller competitors cannot match.

Dividend Aristocrat Potential

The company’s consistent dividend payments and recent authorization increase demonstrate commitment to shareholder returns.

Demographic Tailwinds

The aging population creates a natural growth driver for the deathcare industry over the next decade.

Significant News Impact Analysis

Recent Corporate Actions

SCI made headlines in May 2025 by increasing its share repurchase authorization by $528 million, bringing total buyback capacity to $600 million. This aggressive capital return strategy signals management’s confidence in the company’s valuation and future prospects.

The board also declared a quarterly cash dividend of thirty-two cents per share, maintaining their tradition of returning capital to shareholders while investing in business growth.

Operational Excellence

Q1 2025 results showed impressive metrics: comparable funeral services grew 1.8%, sales averages increased 2.3%, and the company continues to expand its Dignity Memorial brand reach across North America.

Smart Moves for Beginner Traders Today

1. Dollar-Cost Averaging Wins

Instead of timing the market, consider regular investments. SCI’s stability makes it perfect for systematic buying—even small amounts add up over time.

2. Earnings Calendar Strategy

Plan entries around quarterly reports. Historical patterns show opportunities both before earnings (anticipation) and after (reaction plays).

3. Dividend Reinvestment

Use those quarterly payments to automatically buy more shares—compound growth works wonders in stable companies like SCI.

Humorous Trader Wisdom: “Trading SCI is like attending a funeral—you need patience, respect for the process, and you definitely shouldn’t try to rush things. The returns will come… eventually!”

Step-by-Step: How to Buy Service Corporation International (SCI) Shares

Step Action Why It Matters
1 Choose Your Platform Select a broker that offers NYSE access with reasonable fees
2 Account Funding Transfer funds—consider starting with a manageable amount
3 Search “SCI” Use the ticker symbol for precise identification
4 Order Type Selection Limit orders prevent overpaying during volatile periods
5 Execution & Confirmation Review fees and settlement details before finalizing

Why Pocket Option Makes Sense for SCI Investors

Pocket Option offers unique advantages for investors interested in companies like Service Corporation International:

Minimum Deposit Flexibility

With just $5 required to start, you can begin building your SCI position without significant capital commitment. This accessibility makes it perfect for testing strategies or starting small.

Rapid Account Verification

The platform’s streamlined KYC process accepts a single document for verification, getting you to market faster when timing matters.

Diverse Withdrawal Options

Over 100 withdrawal methods ensure you can access profits conveniently, whether you prefer traditional banking or modern digital solutions.

Company Overview: SCI in 2025

Service Corporation International stands as North America’s deathcare leader with an impressive network of 1,485 funeral service locations and 498 cemeteries across 44 states, eight Canadian provinces, and Puerto Rico. The company’s Dignity Memorial brand serves over 600,000 families annually with compassion and professionalism.

  • Market Position: Dominant #1 player with approximately 13% market share
  • Business Model: Essential services with both preneed and at-need revenue streams
  • Financial Health: Strong cash flow generation supporting dividends and buybacks

Interesting Fact: In 2025, SCI’s Dignity Memorial brand introduced AI-powered grief support chatbots that have already assisted over 50,000 families—blending tradition with technology to enhance the customer experience during difficult times.

FAQ

Is SCI stock a good long-term investment?

Yes, SCI offers exposure to an essential industry with demographic tailwinds. The aging population and the company's market dominance create favorable long-term prospects.

How often does SCI pay dividends?

SCI pays quarterly dividends, typically declaring them in February, May, August, and November with payment dates following about a month later.

What's the biggest risk for SCI investors?

Regulatory changes represent the primary risk, as increased consumer protection regulations could impact pricing flexibility and operational costs.

How does SCI compare to smaller funeral home operators?

SCI's scale provides cost advantages, brand recognition, and geographic diversity that smaller operators cannot match, though local providers may have community connections.

Should I buy SCI before or after earnings?

Both approaches can work. Pre-earnings buying captures potential positive surprises, while post-earnings purchases might benefit from any temporary dips despite good results.

User avatar
Your comment
Comments are pre-moderated to ensure they comply with our blog guidelines.