3 Wide-Moat Dividend Gems That Are Election Proof

Group 1: Market Overview - The outcome of the 2024 presidential election is not expected to significantly impact the stock market, as historical data shows that various factors influence market performance beyond political outcomes [10][12][46] - Historical trends indicate that the best years for the S&P 500 occur when Congress is divided, with higher returns observed when neither party holds a majority [15][16] Group 2: Investment Strategy - Investors are encouraged to focus on long-term strategies rather than making portfolio changes based on political developments, as "time in the market" is more beneficial than "timing the market" [18][46] - Reliable dividend-paying companies with strong business models are recommended for investment, as they have demonstrated resilience across different economic and political environments [46] Group 3: Company Analysis - Union Pacific (UNP): A leading Class I railroad with a market cap of nearly $150 billion, yielding 2.3% with a five-year dividend CAGR of 9.1%. The company has a strong balance sheet and has shown revenue growth despite economic challenges [22][24][27] - Waste Management (WM): The largest operator in the waste management industry with a market cap of $83 billion. It has a dividend yield of 1.4% and a five-year dividend CAGR of 8.2%, benefiting from solid growth in waste management operations and inflation protection [30][34][36] - GE Aerospace: A pure-play aerospace company with a significant market presence, benefiting from strong demand in commercial aviation and defense. The company expects high-single-digit revenue growth and has a low dividend payout ratio of 19% [37][42][45]