Dividend Champions Like Alerus Financial Corporation (ALRS) Show the Power of Steady Growth

Core Insights - Alerus Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:ALRS) is recognized as one of the Best Dividend Stocks for a Dividend Champions List, highlighting its strong performance in dividend payments [1][4] Group 1: Business Segments - Alerus Financial operates in three main areas: banking, retirement and benefit services, and wealth management, providing a balanced revenue stream that mitigates risks from weaknesses in any single segment [2] - The retirement and benefit services segment generates steady fee income through account administration, while the wealth management division focuses on investment advice and planning for clients [2] Group 2: Growth Strategy - The company has been expanding its market presence through acquisitions, entering new markets such as Phoenix and Rochester [3] - Alerus is enhancing its digital capabilities via the "One Alerus" program, which integrates technology upgrades across the customer experience [3] - Management has set key objectives including cost reduction, growth in assets under management, diversification of income streams, and improved operational efficiency [3] Group 3: Dividend Performance - Alerus Financial has a strong track record of rewarding shareholders, having increased dividends for 39 consecutive years [4] - The current quarterly dividend is $0.21 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 3.85% as of October 2 [4]