Middlesex Water (MSEX) is a Top Dividend Stock Right Now: Should You Buy?

Company Overview - Middlesex Water (MSEX) is a water utility company based in Iselin, operating within the Utilities sector [3] - The company's shares have experienced a price change of 13.95% so far this year [3] Dividend Information - Middlesex Water currently pays a dividend of $0.34 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 2.27% [3] - The company's dividend yield is lower than the Utility - Water Supply industry's yield of 2.53% and the S&P 500's yield of 1.6% [3] - The annualized dividend of $1.36 represents a 3.4% increase from the previous year [4] - Over the last five years, Middlesex Water has increased its dividend five times, averaging an annual increase of 6.20% [4] - The current payout ratio is 55%, indicating that the company pays out 55% of its trailing 12-month earnings per share as dividends [4] Earnings Growth - Middlesex Water is expected to see earnings growth this fiscal year, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 at $2.50 per share, reflecting a year-over-year growth rate of 1.21% [5] Investment Appeal - The company is viewed as an attractive dividend play and a compelling investment opportunity, holding a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy) [7]