Company Overview - Hershey Co. is positioned as a strong dividend growth stock, with a focus on domestic production to mitigate risks from international tariffs and geopolitical issues [4][5] - The company operates 14 plants in the U.S. and has additional facilities in Brazil, India, Canada, and Mexico, which provides insulation against potential retaliatory tariffs [4][5] Financial Performance - Cocoa prices, which account for approximately 20% of Hershey's cost of goods sold, have been volatile, impacting stock performance [7] - Hershey's stock is down about 1.4% this year, while the S&P 500 has gained approximately 4.4% [8] - Despite rising cocoa prices, they are forecasted to decline by 13% in 2026, which could benefit Hershey in the long term [8] Product Strategy - Hershey is adapting to changing consumer preferences by launching new products that reduce reliance on chocolate, such as the Reese peanut-butter-filled pretzels [11] - The company has made strategic acquisitions, including two plants from Weaver Popcorn Manufacturing, to diversify its product offerings and mitigate cocoa price fluctuations [11] Cost Management - Hershey is implementing a two-year restructuring plan aimed at saving $300 million through automation and streamlined production, which has positively impacted free cash flow [12] - The increase in free cash flow has enabled a 32% boost to Hershey's dividend in 2024, highlighting the company's commitment to returning value to shareholders [12][13] Dividend Outlook - Hershey's current dividend yield is 3.3%, which is more than double the S&P 500 average, with a focus on payout growth as a key investment driver [13] - The stock's price has historically tracked the dividend payout, suggesting potential for a "snap back" in stock performance as cocoa prices retreat and cost-cutting measures take effect [13][14] Market Stability - Hershey is characterized by low volatility, with a five-year beta rating of 0.28, indicating it is less volatile than the S&P 500, making it an attractive option in uncertain market conditions [14]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of a hybrid investment strategy that combines classic dividend growth stocks with Business Development Companies, REITs, and Closed End Funds to enhance investment income while achieving total returns comparable to traditional index funds [1]. Investment Strategy - The investment approach focuses on high-quality dividend stocks and assets that provide long-term growth potential, which can significantly contribute to income generation [1]. - A balanced portfolio that includes both growth and income-generating assets can lead to efficient investment income while maintaining a total return aligned with the S&P [1].

On September 1, 2024, I started tracking an investable universe of what I believe to be 50 high-quality dividend growth stocks. You can find out more about the formation of this investable universeI have a masters degree in Analytics from Northwestern University and a bachelors degree in Accounting. I have worked in the investment arena for over 10 years starting as an analyst and working my way up to a management role. Dividend investing is a personal hobby and I look forward to sharing my thoughts with th ...

I started blogging about my journey to financial independence back in 2011. By living well below my means and intelligently investing my hard-earned capital, I went from below broke at age 27 to financially free at 33 years old. I regularly create content on dividend growth investing, living off of dividends, undervalued high- quality dividend growth stocks, high-yield situations, and other long-term investment opportunities. Founder of Dividend Mantra. Founder of Mr. Free At 33. Co-Founder of Dividends & I ...

Join us today to have access to our portfolio, watchlist and live chat. Members get the first look at all publications and even exclusive articles not posted elsewhere. Interested in more income ideas? Check out Cash Builder Opportunities, where we provide ideas about high-quality and reliable dividend growth ideas. These investments are designed to build growing income for investors. A special focus on investments that are leaders within their industry to provide stability and long-term wealth creation. Al ...

Group 1 - The article discusses the investment community High Yield Landlord, which focuses on real estate investment trusts (REITs) and offers exclusive research and portfolios to its members [1] - Austin Rogers, a REIT specialist, emphasizes the importance of high-quality dividend growth stocks for generating safe and growing passive income streams [1] - The investment strategy highlighted is centered around long-term holding with a focus on portfolio income growth rather than total returns [1] Group 2 - The article does not provide any specific financial data or performance metrics related to the companies mentioned [2][3]

Key Takeaways INTU, FOX, QFIN, UGI and INGR show consistent dividend growth and strong long-term earnings potential. These stocks witnessed positive estimate revisions and boast solid expected earnings growth this fiscal year. Each company ranks in the top Zacks tiers and carries a Growth Score of A or B for added upside potential.Wall Street staged a nice comeback from the lows hit in early April and is currently hovering near record highs. Optimism around U.S.-China trade negotiations, easing inflation ...

Collateralized Loan Obligations are essentially pools of debt that have been bundled together and broken down and categorized by rating and risk profile, otherwise known as tranches. As we remain in a higher interest rate environment, CLOFinancial analyst by day and a seasoned investor by passion, I've been involved in the world of investing for over 15 years and honed my skills in analyzing lucrative opportunities within the market.I specialize in uncovering high quality dividend stocks and other assets th ...

There are many solid dividend stocks right now worth considering because they trade at modest valuations. Three stocks, in particular, have high yields, have grown their payouts, and look cheap. They are ExxonMobil (XOM 0.83%), Verizon Communications (VZ -0.59%), and AbbVie (ABBV 0.12%). 1. ExxonMobil Dividend growth stocks can be ideal long-term options for any investment portfolio. That's because they not only offer a good payout, but they may also rise over time, helping offset the negative effects of in ...

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the effectiveness of investing in dividend growth stocks and reinvesting dividends as a strategy for long-term wealth growth [1]. Group 1: Investment Strategy - The individual investor has explored various investment styles over 25 years, concluding that dividend growth stocks are a reliable method for wealth accumulation [1]. - The investor operates a blog focused on S&P Dividend Aristocrats and other dividend growth stocks, indicating a commitment to sharing knowledge in this investment area [1]. Group 2: Investment Experience - The investor has experience with a diverse range of investment vehicles, including stocks, options, ETFs, treasury notes, and mutual funds, showcasing a broad understanding of the market [1].