Is This Dividend Stock a Buy for 2026 After Rising 265% in 2025?

Group 1: Market Overview - Stocks are expected to close with double-digit gains in 2025, marking the third consecutive year of such performance despite geopolitical tensions and concerns over an AI bubble [1] - Gold prices have outperformed the S&P 500 Index this year, indicating a strong performance for safe-haven assets [2] Group 2: Company Performance - Anglogold Ashanti stock has increased nearly 265% year-to-date, significantly outperforming the VanEck Gold Mining ETF [3] - The company reported free cash flow of nearly $1 billion in Q3 2025, matching its total for all of 2024, and maintains a dividend policy of paying out 50% of its free cash flow to investors [6] Group 3: Gold Market Outlook - The outlook for gold prices remains positive as global uncertainty continues to enhance its appeal as a safe-haven asset, with central banks diversifying their holdings away from the U.S. dollar [4] - Factors supporting gold's rally in 2025 are expected to persist into 2026, making Anglogold a potential option for aggressive investors seeking high dividends [5]