The Motley Fool·2025-06-01 08:15Group 1: Coca-Cola - Coca-Cola is a staple brand with a strong dividend payment record, currently offering a forward dividend yield of 2.85% [3][4] - The company raised its quarterly payment for the 63rd consecutive year, indicating resilience through economic cycles [4][6] - Coca-Cola's adjusted revenue grew 6% year over year, with unit case volume up 2%, showcasing steady sales despite economic uncertainty [5][6] - Management expects adjusted earnings to increase by 7% to 9% in 2025, supporting further dividend increases [6][7] - The company raised the dividend by 5% this year, aligning with long-term growth expectations in revenue and earnings [7][8] Group 2: Home Depot - Home Depot is the leading home improvement retailer, with a $10,000 investment 20 years ago now worth $151,000, including dividend reinvestment [9][10] - The company offers a forward dividend yield of 2.49% and has maintained steady sales and earnings despite a weak housing market [10][11] - Home Depot's average customer earns $110,000 annually, with 80% being homeowners, contributing to healthy demand for small home projects [12] - Management expects full-year adjusted earnings to decline by approximately 2% over fiscal 2024, but long-term growth opportunities remain significant in the $1 trillion home improvement market [13][14]