CNBC·2025-09-21 11:56Core Viewpoint - The U.S. Federal Reserve has approved a rate cut, leading investors to seek income-generating investments, particularly dividend stocks as attractive yields become a focus [1]. Group 1: CVS Health - CVS Health announced a quarterly dividend of $0.665 per share, resulting in an annualized dividend of $2.66 per share and a dividend yield of 3.6% [3]. - Morgan Stanley analyst Erin Wright reiterated a buy rating on CVS stock with a price target of $82, highlighting the company's integrated model and turnaround potential [4]. - CVS is focusing on stabilizing and turning around its business, with improvements in Medicare Star Ratings and pharmacy pricing models [5]. - The company aims to return to a target leverage of low 3x and plans to hold its dividend until it reaches a target payout ratio of about 30% [6]. Group 2: Williams Companies - Williams Companies declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.50 per share, reflecting a 5.3% year-over-year increase, with an annualized dividend of $2 per share and a yield of 3.4% [8]. - Analyst Selman Akyol noted that Williams has growth opportunities due to increasing demand for natural gas, particularly from LNG exports [9]. - The company is focused on maintaining a strong balance sheet while growing its dividend in the 5% to 6% range annually [12]. Group 3: Chord Energy - Chord Energy paid a base dividend of $1.30 in the second quarter, with total dividends of $5.34 over the past 12 months, resulting in a dividend yield of 5.1% [14]. - The company announced an acquisition of assets in the Williston Basin for $550 million, which is expected to enhance operational efficiency and cash flow [15]. - Analyst Gabriele Sorbara reaffirmed a buy rating on Chord Energy with a price target of $140, citing strong free cash flow yield and low financial leverage [17].