3 Magnificent S&P 500 Dividend Stocks Down 19% to 28% to Buy and Hold Forever

Core Insights - Dividend stocks are crucial for total returns, contributing nearly 31% to the S&P 500 index's total returns since 1926 [1] Group 1: Realty Income - Realty Income pays a monthly dividend and has a current yield of 5.4%, trading nearly 28% below its all-time highs [3][4] - The company has increased its dividend for 31 consecutive years, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% [4] - Realty Income's diversified portfolio includes over 15,600 properties across 91 countries, primarily in non-discretionary businesses [6][7] Group 2: Chevron - Chevron has expanded its asset base significantly through the acquisition of Hess, projecting an incremental free cash flow of $12.5 billion from 2024 to 2026 [8][10] - The company has increased its dividend payout for 37 consecutive years and offers a reliable dividend yield of 4.4% [9][10] - Chevron's upcoming investor day on Nov. 12 is expected to provide updates on long-term financial goals and cash-flow projections [10] Group 3: American Water Works - American Water Works is a regulated water utility serving over 14 million people and has increased its dividend for 17 consecutive years [11][12] - The company is targeting a capital spending of $40 billion to $42 billion, with a rate base CAGR of 8% to 9% and earnings per share CAGR of 7% to 9% [15] - The stock is trading almost 25% off all-time highs, indicating potential for share-price appreciation [14]