Why Essential Utilities (WTRG) is a Top Dividend Stock for Your Portfolio

Company Overview - Essential Utilities (WTRG) is headquartered in Bryn Mawr and operates in the Utilities sector [3] - The stock has experienced a price change of 2.42% since the beginning of the year [3] Dividend Information - Essential Utilities currently pays a dividend of $0.33 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 3.5% [3] - The Utility - Water Supply industry's average yield is 2.64%, while the S&P 500's yield is 1.48% [3] - The company's annualized dividend of $1.30 has increased by 2.8% from the previous year [4] - Over the last 5 years, the company has raised its dividend 5 times, averaging an annual increase of 6.53% [4] - The current payout ratio is 58%, indicating that the company paid out 58% of its trailing 12-month EPS as dividends [4] Earnings Growth - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 earnings is $2.10 per share, reflecting a year-over-year growth rate of 6.60% [5] Investment Appeal - Essential Utilities is considered a compelling investment opportunity due to its attractive dividend and strong Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy) [6]