3 Dividend King Stocks to Buy With $500 and Hold Forever

Group 1: Core Investment Thesis - Timeless stocks, or "Dividend Kings," are companies that have consistently raised dividends for at least 50 consecutive years, indicating strong business models and cultures [3] - The focus is on high-quality businesses that can provide steady returns over generations, rather than stocks with planned exit strategies [2] Group 2: Company Profiles - Emerson Electric: This automation company has raised its dividend for 67 consecutive years and is positioned to benefit from trends like automation and energy efficiency. Management projects 4% to 7% annualized organic revenue growth and double-digit earnings growth over the long term. The dividend payout ratio is a comfortable 35% of this year's earnings estimates [5][6][7] - Illinois Tool Works: A diversified conglomerate that has grown its dividend for 53 consecutive years. It operates across seven segments, which helps it withstand economic downturns. The dividend consumes just over 58% of this year's estimated earnings, and analysts expect earnings growth of 5% to 6% annually over the next three to five years [8][10][11] - Genuine Parts: This automotive and industrial parts distributor has a steady business model with 68 consecutive years of dividend increases. It generates approximately $23 billion in annual revenue and operates in a market worth an estimated$350 billion. The company spends about half its earnings on dividends and has a long-term estimated earnings growth rate of 7% [12][13][14]