Got $500? 3 Dividend Stocks to Buy and Hold Forever

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights three healthcare stocks—Johnson & Johnson, Medtronic, and Omega Healthcare Investors—as attractive options for dividend-focused investors, emphasizing their strong dividend yields and resilience in the market [2][15]. Group 1: Johnson & Johnson - Johnson & Johnson is recognized as a Dividend King, having increased its dividend for over 50 consecutive years, with a current yield of 2.9%, significantly higher than the broader market's 1.2% and the healthcare sector's average of 1.8% [4][5]. - The company is a leader in pharmaceuticals and medical devices, with a strong global presence and robust R&D capabilities, which positions it well for future growth despite some near-term litigation concerns [5][6]. - A $500 investment would allow the purchase of approximately two shares, while $5,000 would enable the acquisition of 27 shares [6]. Group 2: Medtronic - Medtronic is approaching Dividend King status with 48 years of dividend increases and a current yield of 3%, which is attractive compared to market averages [8][9]. - The company is diversified across various medical device sectors, but has faced challenges with new product introductions and rising costs affecting profitability; however, new cardiac ablation products have shown nearly 50% revenue growth year-over-year in Q2 of fiscal 2026 [10][11]. - A $500 investment would yield around five shares, while $5,000 would allow for the purchase of 55 shares, providing an opportunity to invest early in a business upturn [11]. Group 3: Omega Healthcare Investors - Omega Healthcare is a REIT focused on senior housing, which faced challenges during the pandemic but maintained its dividend, currently yielding an ultra-high 6.4% [12][13]. - The company has seen a recovery in its core business, with funds from operations rising nearly 8% year-over-year in Q2 of 2025, and is making significant new investments [13][14]. - An investment of $500 would allow for the purchase of approximately 11 shares, while $5,000 would enable the acquisition of 119 shares, indicating strong future potential driven by demographic trends [14]. Group 4: Overall Investment Thesis - Johnson & Johnson, Medtronic, and Omega Healthcare have demonstrated resilience and a commitment to dividends, making them suitable candidates for investors looking to allocate $500 or $5,000 into dividend stocks [15].