Why Middlesex Water (MSEX) is a Great Dividend Stock Right Now

Company Overview - Middlesex Water (MSEX) is a utility stock headquartered in Iselin, with a price change of 17.77% year-to-date [3] - The company currently pays a dividend of $0.34 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 2.19%, which is slightly below the Utility - Water Supply industry's yield of 2.36% and above the S&P 500's yield of 1.66% [3] Dividend Performance - The annualized dividend of Middlesex Water is$ 1.36, reflecting a 3.4% increase from the previous year [4] - Over the last five years, the company has increased its dividend five times, achieving an average annual increase of 6.15% [4] - The current payout ratio stands at 55%, indicating that the company pays out 55% of its trailing 12-month earnings per share as dividends [4] Earnings Outlook - For the fiscal year 2025, the Zacks Consensus Estimate predicts earnings of $2.53 per share, representing a 2.43% increase from the previous year [5] Investment Appeal - Middlesex Water is considered an attractive dividend play and a compelling investment opportunity, currently holding a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) [7]