AerCap N.V.-The Smartest Dividend Stocks to Buy With $300 Right Now

Core Viewpoint - In a year of significant stock market growth, dividend-paying stocks present a viable option for investors seeking income and stability, particularly in a market characterized by high valuations. Group 1: AerCap - AerCap is a market leader in aircraft leasing, achieving a total return of over 30% in 2024 [3] - The company initiated its first quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share, resulting in a 1% annual yield, with a healthy payout ratio of approximately 9% based on 2024 guidance of$ 10.70 adjusted EPS [4][5] - AerCap has authorized $1.5 billion in share repurchases, buying back 6.3% of its outstanding shares, indicating management's confidence in future profits [6] Group 2: Autoliv - Autoliv, a leader in automotive safety systems, raised its quarterly dividend by 3% to$ 0.70 per share, yielding 2.8% annually [7] - The company suspended its dividend in 2020 but reinstated it in 2021, currently maintaining a payout ratio of 35% [8] - Autoliv's stock trades at a three-year low valuation of 13 times trailing earnings, presenting an investment opportunity despite a nearly 10% decline in 2024 [10][11] Group 3: NextEra Energy - NextEra Energy, a major electric utility, has seen its stock rise approximately 19% in 2024 and pays a quarterly dividend of $0.515 per share, yielding 2.8% [13] - The company has a strong dividend history, having paid and raised its dividend for 30 consecutive years, with a projected increase of at least 10% in early 2025 [14] - NextEra Energy has a trailing payout ratio of 59.5% and generated$ 7.6 billion in operating revenue, with adjusted EPS growth projected between 6% to 8% annually through 2027 [14][17]