Artesian Resources (ARTNA) is a Top Dividend Stock Right Now: Should You Buy?

Company Overview - Artesian Resources (ARTNA) is headquartered in Newark and operates in the Utilities sector [3] - The stock has experienced a price change of 4.78% since the beginning of the year [3] Dividend Information - Artesian Resources currently pays a dividend of $0.31 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 3.71% [3] - The Utility - Water Supply industry's average yield is 2.62%, while the S&P 500's yield is 1.51% [3] - The company's annualized dividend of $1.23 has increased by 4.1% from the previous year [4] - Over the last 5 years, Artesian Resources has raised its dividend 5 times, averaging an annual increase of 4.18% [4] - The current payout ratio is 57%, indicating that 57% of its trailing 12-month EPS is paid out as dividends [4] Earnings Growth - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 earnings is $2.16 per share, reflecting a year-over-year growth rate of 9.09% [5] Investment Considerations - Artesian Resources is considered a strong dividend play and is currently rated as a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [6] - The company is viewed as a compelling investment opportunity due to its solid dividend and earnings growth potential [6]