Dividend stocks are a popular form of income investing as they provide a steady stream of income for investors. Dividend stocks are stocks that pay out a regular dividend to shareholders. These dividends can be in the form of cash, stock, or other assets. The amount of dividends paid out and the frequency of the dividend payments can vary greatly between different dividend stocks. In this article, we will discuss the top dividend stocks of 2015, how to evaluate dividend stocks, and how to invest in them.
Dividend Stock Overview
Dividend stocks are stocks that pay out regular dividends to shareholders. These dividends can be in the form of cash, stock, or other assets. Dividend stocks are popular among investors because they provide a steady stream of income. Dividend stocks are also less volatile than other stocks, as the dividend payments help to offset any losses in the stock price. Dividend stocks are typically blue-chip companies that have a long track record of success and have a solid balance sheet.
Top Dividend Stocks of 2015
There are many different dividend stocks to choose from, but some of the top dividend stocks of 2015 include:
- Microsoft (MSFT): Microsoft is a technology giant that has been paying dividends for over 20 years. The company currently pays a dividend yield of 2.5%.
- Coca-Cola (KO): Coca-Cola is one of the world’s most recognizable brands and has been paying dividends since 1993. The company currently pays a dividend yield of 3.3%.
- Johnson & Johnson (JNJ): Johnson & Johnson is a healthcare giant that has been paying dividends since 1963. The company currently pays a dividend yield of 2.7%.
- Exxon Mobil (XOM): Exxon Mobil is an energy giant that has been paying dividends since 1882. The company currently pays a dividend yield of 2.9%.
Evaluating Dividend Stocks
When evaluating dividend stocks, investors should consider the following factors:
- Dividend Yield: The dividend yield is the amount of dividends paid out divided by the stock price. A higher dividend yield indicates a higher return on your investment.
- Dividend History: Investors should look at the company’s dividend history to see if the company has been consistently paying out dividends for a long period of time.
- Financial Strength: Investors should look at the company’s financial statements to make sure that the company is in good financial health and is able to continue paying