This is Why Middlesex Water (MSEX) is a Great Dividend Stock

Company Overview - Middlesex Water (MSEX) is a Utilities stock headquartered in Iselin, with a price change of 12.05% so far this year [3] - The company currently pays a dividend of $0.34 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 2.31%, which is lower than the Utility - Water Supply industry's yield of 2.65% but higher than the S&P 500's yield of 1.56% [3] Dividend Performance - The current annualized dividend of Middlesex Water is $1.36, reflecting a 3.4% increase from the previous year [4] - Over the last 5 years, Middlesex Water has increased its dividend 5 times on a year-over-year basis, with an average annual increase of 6.20% [4] - The company's current payout ratio is 55%, indicating that it paid out 55% of its trailing 12-month EPS as dividends [4] Earnings Growth - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Middlesex Water's earnings for 2025 is $2.50 per share, representing a year-over-year growth rate of 1.21% [5] Investment Appeal - Middlesex Water is considered an attractive dividend play and a compelling investment opportunity, currently holding a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy) [7]