MPLX-2 dividend stocks of the month

Core Viewpoint - Dividend-paying stocks are favored by income-seeking investors for stability amid economic uncertainty in 2025, with MPLX LP and Verizon Communications highlighted as attractive options for reliable cash flow [1][10]. MPLX LP - MPLX LP is currently trading at $54, with an 11% year-to-date gain, establishing itself as a leading dividend stock in the midstream energy sector [2]. - The company has a forward dividend yield of 7.09% and has maintained consistent payouts for 13 consecutive years, appealing to income-focused investors [3]. - MPLX reported$ 3.06 billion in revenue, reflecting a 3% year-over-year increase, with earnings per share (EPS) of $1.07 surpassing analyst expectations [3]. - With a market capitalization of$ 54.7 billion, MPLX operates extensive energy infrastructure, including pipelines and processing plants, and has announced a $2 billion capital expenditure plan for 2025, focusing 85% on Natural Gas and NGL Services projects [4]. - The company is also investing$ 2.5 billion to construct an LPG export terminal on the U.S. Gulf Coast, reinforcing its position as a stable investment for long-term dividend income [5]. Verizon Communications - Verizon Communications is currently trading at $41.06, with a five-day gain of 2.8%, maintaining its status as a top dividend stock supported by strong cash flow [6]. - The company offers a forward dividend yield of 6.6%, significantly higher than the telecommunications sector average of 3%, with a moderate forward payout ratio of 65.4% [7]. - Verizon generated$ 19.8 billion in free cash flow in 2024, providing sufficient liquidity for dividends, debt reduction, and future investments [8]. - The company anticipates flat to 3% earnings growth in 2025, with free cash flow projected between $17.5 billion and$ 18.5 billion, demonstrating strong financials and a commitment to returning capital to shareholders [9].