When it comes to finding attractive dividend stocks, investors often turn to Wall Street analysts for guidance. One such dividend pick recommended by analysts is consumer products giant Kimberly-Clark (KMB). With popular brands like Huggies and Kleenex under its belt, Kimberly-Clark is known as a dividend king, having raised its dividends for at least 50 consecutive years. In the first quarter of 2024, the company returned a substantial amount to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases. Currently offering a dividend yield of 3.5%, Kimberly-Clark has caught the attention of many investors, including RBC Capital analyst Nik Modi. Following an upgrade to a buy rating and an increased price target, Modi expressed confidence in the company’s shift towards a growth-oriented enterprise under the leadership of CEO Mike Hsu. This transformation, which includes reorganizing into three business units, has resulted in improved product costs and speed to market. With such positive developments, Kimberly-Clark is well-positioned for future growth.
CHRD: Chord Energy (CHRD)
Another dividend-paying stock worth considering is Chord Energy (CHRD), an oil and gas operator in the Williston Basin. With a base dividend and a variable dividend paid recently, Chord Energy is set to benefit from its acquisition of Enerplus. This strategic move is expected to strengthen the company’s position in the Williston Basin, with enhanced scale and solid shareholder returns. Mizuho analyst William Janela reaffirmed a buy rating on CHRD stock, emphasizing the increased estimate for annualized deal synergies and the company’s focus on operational scale. With an above-average cash return and attractive relative valuation, Chord Energy presents an appealing option for investors looking for dividend opportunities.
CSCO: Cisco Systems (CSCO)
For those interested in dividend-paying technology stocks, Cisco Systems (CSCO) is a top pick recommended by Wall Street analysts. The networking giant has been actively returning capital to shareholders, including dividends and share repurchases in the third quarter of fiscal 2024. With a quarterly dividend yield of 3.5%, Cisco Systems has garnered positive attention from Jefferies analyst George Notter. Following an investor and analyst day, Notter reiterated a buy rating on Cisco stock, citing a clearer strategy with regard to the company’s acquisition of Splunk. With expected revenue growth and improved earnings per share in the coming years, Cisco Systems presents a compelling opportunity for investors seeking to add dividend-paying technology stocks to their portfolios.
Dividend-paying stocks like Kimberly-Clark, Chord Energy, and Cisco Systems offer investors a chance to enhance their portfolios with attractive yields and the potential for long-term growth. By following the recommendations of top Wall Street analysts, investors can make informed decisions when it comes to selecting dividend stocks for their investment portfolios.