Group 1 - The article emphasizes that dividend-paying stocks, especially those with a history of regular increases, are a low-risk investment option for wealth growth [1][2] - Companies that focus on growing their dividends are often considered blue-chip stocks, which are reliable and stable investments [2][3] Group 2 - American States Water (NYSE: AWR) is highlighted as a "boring but important" company, providing essential water and wastewater services, and has paid dividends since 1931, increasing them for 70 consecutive years [6][7] - The current dividend yield for American States Water is 2.7%, with a payout ratio of 56.2%, indicating a sustainable dividend policy [7] - The company maintains strong financial health, with an operating margin of 30.9% and a net margin of 20.4%, alongside an 11.6% year-over-year growth in earnings per share (EPS) for the latest quarter [8]