3 Top Dividend Stocks Yielding More Than 3% That You Shouldn't Hesitate to Buy Right Now

Core Viewpoint - The S&P 500 is experiencing a rally, leading to a decline in its dividend yield, which is currently around 1.2%, nearing a record low. Despite this, there are still attractive dividend-paying stocks available for yield-seeking investors [1]. Group 1: ExxonMobil - ExxonMobil has a strong track record of increasing its dividend for 42 consecutive years, outperforming its peers in the oil sector [4]. - The company benefits from an integrated business model with low-cost, high-margin assets, allowing for resilient cash flows and a fortress balance sheet with the lowest leverage ratio among its peers [5]. - ExxonMobil's 2030 plan aims to boost earnings by $20 billion and cash flow by $30 billion, supporting future dividend increases [6]. Group 2: Johnson & Johnson - Johnson & Johnson has a AAA credit rating and a net debt of $13.5 billion, which is manageable given its $380 billion market cap and $20 billion in free cash flow last year, easily covering its $11.8 billion dividend [7]. - The company has raised its dividend for 63 consecutive years, qualifying it as a Dividend King [8]. - Johnson & Johnson invests heavily in growth, spending $17 billion on R&D and securing over $30 billion in M&A deals last year, positioning it to continue increasing its 3.3% dividend yield [9]. Group 3: Essex Property Trust - Essex Property Trust is a major apartment owner focused on West Coast markets, benefiting from strong demand for rental housing [10]. - The REIT has increased its dividend for 31 consecutive years, with a cumulative increase of 516% since its IPO in 1994, currently yielding 3.6% [11]. - The company maintains a strong investment-grade balance sheet, allowing for continued expansion through acquisitions and development projects, enhancing its ability to increase dividends [12]. Group 4: High-Quality Dividend Stocks - ExxonMobil, Johnson & Johnson, and Essex Property Trust are highlighted as high-quality, high-yielding dividend stocks with yields above 3% and potential for further growth, making them attractive options for investors [13].