This Top 5.5%-Yielding Dividend Stock Continues to Demonstrate Why It's a Smart Buy

Core Viewpoint - Realty Income is positioned to deliver stable earnings and dividend growth despite market turbulence and economic uncertainties [2][9]. Financial Performance - Realty Income reported adjusted funds from operations (FFO) of $1.06 per share, a 2.9$1.4 billion in the first quarter, with $825 million allocated to acquisitions and nearly$70 million to development projects in Europe, which offers a higher initial cash yield of 7% compared to 6.9% in the U.S. [5]. - The REIT's existing portfolio saw a 1.3% increase in same-store rental revenue, driven by contractual rent increases and new leases at higher rates [6]. Portfolio and Risk Management - The company has a diversified portfolio secured by long-term net leases with leading global companies, ensuring stable cash flow as tenants cover all operating costs [7]. - Realty Income's strong financial profile, characterized by a conservative dividend payout ratio and a robust balance sheet, allows for significant excess free cash flow to fund new investments [8]. Future Outlook - Realty Income anticipates investing about $4 billion into new properties this year, projecting adjusted FFO growth to a range of$4.22 to $4.28 per share, representing a 2% increase from the previous year [9]. - The company is confident in achieving its 2025 guidance despite uncertainties from tariffs, with potential for faster growth if interest rates decline [9][10].