4 Stocks to Watch That Declared Dividend Hikes Amid Rate-Cut Uncertainty

Market Overview - Volatility has returned to Wall Street, with major indexes experiencing losses due to concerns over the economy's health and uncertainty regarding a potential interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve in September [1][3][6] - The S&P 500 recorded its fourth consecutive day of losses, while the Nasdaq closed lower for the second day, following a weak jobs report and higher-than-expected wholesale inflation data [3][6] Inflation and Economic Indicators - The producer price index (PPI) rose by 0.9% in July, significantly above the consensus estimate of 0.3%, indicating rising inflation pressures [4][5] - Core PPI, which excludes food and energy prices, also increased by 0.9% month-over-month in July [4] Dividend-Paying Stocks - In light of market volatility, investors may consider dividend-paying stocks for steady income and capital protection [2] - Notable dividend-paying stocks include: - Chemung Financial Corporation (CHMG): Dividend of $0.34 per share, 2.52% yield, 26% payout ratio [8][10] - M&T Bank Corporation (MTB): Dividend of $1.50 per share, 2.84% yield, 34% payout ratio [11][10] - Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. (MLM): Dividend of $0.83 per share, 0.52% yield, 18% payout ratio [13][10] - United Community Banks, Inc. (UCB): Dividend of $0.25 per share, 3.07% yield, 39% payout ratio [15][10]