The following video is part of our "Motley Fool Conversations" series, in which consumer goods editor and analyst Austin Smith discusses topics across the investing world.

In today's edition Austin helps investors learn about where one of Warren Buffett's favorite Dow stocks -- American Express (NYSE: AXP) -- gets its cash. The closed-loop merchant network does not have the same reach as its open-loop competitors like Visa (NYSE: V) and MasterCard (NYSE: MA), but the company does realize more value from the whole transaction because it controls more of the purchase. The company spins off a tremendous amount of cash for investors, so it's easy to see why Buffett holds such a large stake in it.

Most investors come to the Dow looking for great dividends. But with only 30 components, the Dow can be a bit limited in its scope. To learn about more high-yielding stocks, I invite you to read our special free report: "Secure Your Future With 11 Rock-Solid Dividend Stocks." You can access your copy today at no cost! Just click here to discover the winners we've picked.