This Unstoppable 5.6%-Yielding Stock Extends Its Dividend Growth Streak to 31 Years in a Row

Core Viewpoint - Enbridge is recognized as a high-quality income stock, having announced a 3% increase in its dividend, marking 31 consecutive years of dividend growth [1][11]. Financial Performance - The company has raised its quarterly dividend payment to CA$0.97 (approximately $0.70), translating to an annual dividend of CA$3.88 ($2.78) [3]. - Enbridge expects to generate distributable cash flow between CA$5.70 and CA$6.10 per share ($4.09-$4.37), reflecting a 3.5% increase from the previous year's guidance [4]. Dividend Sustainability - The anticipated dividend payout ratio is projected to be between 64% and 68%, comfortably within the company's target range of 60%-70% [4]. - Enbridge aims to grow its distributable cash flow per share at a compound annual rate of approximately 3% from 2023 to 2026 [4]. Growth Initiatives - The company plans to invest CA$8 billion ($5.7 billion) in growth capital projects in the upcoming year, including significant projects in its gas transmission segment [6]. - Enbridge is set to deploy about CA$10 billion ($7.2 billion) into growth capital projects next year, fully funded by its post-dividend free cash flow [7]. Long-term Outlook - Enbridge has secured CA$37 billion ($26.5 billion) in growth capital projects with in-service dates extending through 2033, providing strong visibility into its long-term growth [8]. - The company anticipates an acceleration in its distributable cash flow growth rate to around 5% annually after 2026, driven by heavy investments and project completions [9]. Investment Proposition - Enbridge's robust financial profile and growth visibility position it well for continued dividend increases, with expectations of low-to-mid single-digit annual increases in the coming years [10].