12 Best Income Stocks to Buy Now

Core Insights - The article discusses the significance of dividend-paying stocks in generating long-term returns and stability in the market, highlighting the performance of various categories of dividend stocks from 1973 to 2022 [1][2][4]. Dividend Performance - Dividend-paying companies achieved an average annual return of 9.18%, while non-dividend payers lagged at 3.95%. Companies that consistently raised dividends performed even better with a return of 10.24%, while those maintaining dividends saw 6.60% returns. The worst performers were companies that cut dividends, which had a -0.60% annual return [2]. Volatility Analysis - Non-dividend-paying stocks exhibited a beta of 1.18, indicating higher volatility compared to the market, while dividend-paying stocks had a beta of 0.94, suggesting steadier performance with fewer extreme price swings [3]. Investment Strategy - The article emphasizes the importance of investing in companies with a consistent history of dividend payments, as these firms are often more stable and resilient during economic downturns [4][6]. Realty Income Corporation - Realty Income Corporation (NYSE:O) is highlighted as a top dividend stock, with a dividend yield of 5.72% and 27 hedge fund holders as of December 28. Morgan Stanley recently raised its price target for the company to $65 from $62 [9][10]. - The company operates by acquiring single-tenant commercial properties and leasing them under triple-net leases, which helps maintain steady cash flow and reliable monthly dividends [10][11]. - Realty Income has a strong track record, having paid 666 consecutive monthly dividends and raised its dividend 133 times since its NYSE listing in 1994 [13]. National Fuel Gas Company - National Fuel Gas Company (NYSE:NFG) is another notable dividend stock, with a dividend yield of 2.64% and 32 hedge fund holders as of December 28. JPMorgan recently raised its price target for the company to $96 from $95 [15][16]. - The company is set to acquire CenterPoint Energy's Ohio natural gas utility business for $2.62 billion, which will significantly expand its regulated footprint and double its gas utility rate base [18][19]. - This acquisition is expected to enhance National Fuel's cash flows and reinforce its investment-grade balance sheet, as it serves a large customer base across Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania [20].