Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the performance of high-dividend stocks in 2025, highlighting a shift in investor interest towards these stocks due to anticipated interest-rate cuts and the current market conditions affecting dividend payouts [1][2][3]. Dividend Trends - Investors are increasingly attracted to high-dividend stocks as they seek generous payouts, especially as the dividend growth rate has slowed significantly [1][2]. - In Q2, S&P firms announced only $9.8 billion in dividend increases, a notable decrease from $19.5 billion in Q1 [1]. - The three-year annualized dividend growth rate is now comparable to levels seen in 2000, indicating a cautious approach from companies amid economic uncertainties [2]. Company Highlights - Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (NYSE:ADM): - YTD performance as of September 15 is 21.4% [7]. - The company has a strong history of dividend payments, declaring a quarterly dividend of $0.51 per share, maintaining a dividend yield of 3.34% [9]. - Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE): - YTD performance as of September 15 is 23.5% [10]. - Nucor utilizes electric arc furnaces, enhancing efficiency and reducing carbon emissions, and has a consistent dividend policy with a quarterly dividend of $0.55 per share and a yield of 1.56% [12]. - Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO): - YTD performance as of September 15 is 24.2% [13]. - Altria has a strong dividend history, recently increasing its quarterly dividend by 3.9% to $1.06 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 6.49% [15].
15 Best Performing Dividend Stocks So Far in 2025