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Best Dividend Stock to Buy Right Now: Realty Income vs. BP
The Motley Fool· 2026-01-20 09:25
Core Viewpoint - Realty Income is considered a better dividend stock compared to BP despite BP having a slightly higher dividend yield, due to differences in dividend reliability and business strategies [1][6][14] Dividend Examination - BP has a dividend yield of 5.6%, while Realty Income has a yield of 5.3% [1][2] - Realty Income has increased its dividend for 30 consecutive years, whereas BP cut its dividend in 2020 [3][6] - BP's dividend cut was part of a strategic shift towards renewable energy, but it has since reversed its commitment to clean energy [4][6] Business Model Analysis - Realty Income operates as a real estate investment trust (REIT) focusing on single-tenant retail properties with a net lease approach, which minimizes operational risks [7][8][9] - Realty Income has a portfolio of over 15,500 properties and maintains a reliable dividend supported by an investment-grade-rated balance sheet [9] - BP operates in the volatile oil sector, leading to fluctuations in earnings and potential dividend instability [10][12] Comparative Analysis - BP's higher yield does not equate to a reliable dividend stock, as evidenced by its dividend history and high debt-to-equity ratio [12][13] - TotalEnergies, another integrated energy company, has maintained its dividend without cuts, contrasting BP's approach [5][14]