The Motley Fool·2026-01-18 09:44Core Viewpoint - Investing in ultra-high-yield dividend stocks can generate significant passive income, with a potential of over $3,700 from a $50,000 investment by 2026. Group 1: Ares Capital - Ares Capital offers a dividend yield of approximately 9.4%, with an expected dividend income of around $940 from a $10,000 investment this year [2][4]. - The company has maintained or grown its dividend for 65 consecutive quarters, indicating a stable dividend trend [4]. Group 2: Energy Transfer LP - Energy Transfer LP has a forward distribution yield of 7.6%, which would yield at least $760 in passive income from a $10,000 investment by 2026 [5][6]. - The company is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for electricity in the U.S. due to its extensive natural gas pipeline network and storage capacity [6]. Group 3: Pfizer - Pfizer's forward dividend yield is nearly 6.9%, translating to approximately $690 in passive income from a $10,000 investment by 2026 [7][10]. - Despite a high dividend payout ratio of 99.4%, Pfizer continues to generate sufficient free cash flow to maintain its dividend, with plans for future growth [8][10]. Group 4: Verizon Communications - Verizon Communications has a forward dividend yield just below 7%, expected to add around $700 to passive income from a $10,000 investment this year [11]. - The company has announced its 19th consecutive annual dividend increase, supported by robust free cash flow growth [12]. Group 5: Vici Properties - Vici Properties has a forward dividend yield of nearly 6.5%, contributing to a total passive income of over $3,700 when combined with the previous stocks [13][15]. - As a real estate investment trust (REIT), Vici is required to return at least 90% of its profits as dividends, and it owns a significant portfolio of high-profile gaming and entertainment properties [15].