Why Northern Trust Corporation (NTRS) is a Top Dividend Stock for Your Portfolio

Core Insights - The primary focus for income investors is generating consistent cash flow through dividends, which are a significant portion of long-term returns [2][4]. Company Overview - Northern Trust Corporation (NTRS), based in Chicago, has experienced a share price increase of 23.93% this year [3]. - The company currently pays a dividend of $0.80 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 2.52%, which is lower than the Banks - Major Regional industry's yield of 3.53% and the S&P 500's yield of 1.51% [3]. Dividend Performance - Northern Trust's annualized dividend of $3.20 has increased by 6.7% from the previous year [4]. - Over the past five years, the company has raised its dividend once, with an average annual increase of 2.01% [4]. - The current payout ratio is 36%, indicating that the company pays out 36% of its trailing 12-month earnings per share as dividends [4]. Earnings Expectations - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Northern Trust's earnings in 2025 is $8.63 per share, reflecting a 12.08% increase from the previous year [5]. - The company is expected to see earnings expansion this fiscal year [5]. Investment Considerations - Northern Trust is considered a compelling investment opportunity due to its strong dividend profile and current Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [6].