In the past, nearly all stocks paid dividends. For a variety of reasons, however, dividends have become less common. Many companies are putting earnings back into their businesses or use other methods, such as share buybacks, to return money to investors.
For those who want safety and security in their stock portfolio, dividend-paying stocks remain attractive. Over time, dividend payers have historically outperformed other investments, with quite a bit less volatility -- and that's a win-win for investors.
Income Investor
Our Motley Fool Income Investor newsletter service focuses on dividend-paying investments. We seek companies with certain characteristics, including:
- A minimum 3% current or forward dividend yield.
- A reliable dividend track record.
- Reasonable payout ratios.
- Sustainable earnings growth.
- A competitive advantage that will hold up.
- A proven management team.
Each Motley Fool Income Investor monthly newsletter hands you:
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To see what The Motley Fool's Income Investor is recommending to their readers now, take a look at Income Investor today.
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