The Motley Fool·2025-09-28 12:15Core Insights - High-yielding dividend stocks are becoming harder to find as the S&P 500's dividend yield has dropped to less than 1.2%, nearing its lowest level on record [1][2] Group 1: Clearway Energy - Clearway Energy offers a dividend yield of 6.3%, supported by long-term, fixed-rate power purchase agreements (PPAs) that provide stable cash flow [4][5] - The company plans to distribute 70% to 80% of its cash flows as dividends while investing the remainder in renewable energy projects, aiming for over 20% cash flow per share growth in the next two years, which could lead to a dividend increase of more than 10% by the end of 2027 [5][6] - Clearway has multiple growth drivers, including repowering wind farms and acquiring new projects, with expectations of 5% to 8% annual cash flow growth beyond 2027 [6] Group 2: Realty Income - Realty Income has a dividend yield of 5.4% and pays dividends monthly, making it attractive for passive income investors [8] - The REIT has a strong history of dividend increases, having raised its payment 132 times since 1994, with a compound annual growth rate of 4.2% [8][9] - Realty Income's diversified portfolio and long-term triple net leases provide stable cash flow, with a significant $14 trillion investment opportunity in NNN real estate [9] Group 3: Verizon - Verizon leads the group with a 6.4% dividend yield, supported by substantial cash flows from consumer and business services [10][11] - The company expects $38 billion in operating cash flow this year, allowing for investments in network expansion, acquisitions, and debt repayment [11] - Verizon has a strong track record of dividend increases, recently marking its 19th consecutive annual increase, with expectations for continued growth [12] Group 4: Investment Opportunity - Clearway Energy, Realty Income, and Verizon are highlighted as strong options for investors seeking high-yielding dividends backed by solid financial profiles and consistent dividend growth [13]