Get the most passive income possible with these top dividend stocks
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In an uncertain market, dividend-paying stocks can offer a cushion against volatility and provide steady income.
The top dividend-paying stocks for October 2024 include transportation companies Euronav NV (CMBT), BW LPG Limited (BWLP), TORM plc (TRMD), and Hafnia Limited (HAFN).
Key Takeaways
Companies with dividend stocks regularly share a part of their profits with shareholders, typically every quarter, though some pay semiannually or even yearly.The dividend yield is a measure that compares the yearly dividend amount to the stock’s current price, expressed as a percentage.As a company’s stock price shifts, the dividend yield adjusts accordingly, reflecting the changes in this ratio.
Below, we look at the top 10 dividend stocks listed on either the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) or Nasdaq as measured by forward dividend yield, excluding companies with payout ratios that are either negative or over 100%. The data below are as of Sept. 30, 2024.
Ticker
Company
Sector
Market Cap ($B)
Dividend Yield (%)
Price ($)
Euronav NV
Transportation
3.24
39.62
16.62
Diversified Energy Company
Energy Minerals
0.55
26.63
11.38
BW LPG Limited
Transportation
1.90
24.98
14.40
TORM plc
Transportation
3.25
18.44
34.19
Oxford Lane Capital Corp.
Investment Trusts/Mutual Funds
1.66
18.28
5.24
Ecopetrol S.A.
Energy Minerals
18.52
17.42
8.93
Petróleo Brasileiro SA
Energy Minerals
90.25
15.75
14.41
Cool Company Ltd.
Industrial Services
0.61
14.86
11.29
XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust
Investment Trusts/Mutual Funds
0.40
14.78
6.82
Hafnia Limited
Transportation
3.62
14.73
7.16
Why Are These the Best Dividend Stocks?
We selected the 10 best dividend stocks above based on the highest forward dividend yield, among those listed on the Nasdaq or New York Stock Exchange. We excluded stocks under $5, those with a market cap of less than $300 million, and those with a daily trading volume below 100,000. We also excluded companies with payout ratios that are either negative or over 100%.
Investors prioritizing dividends are looking for a steady income stream alongside the potential for stock price appreciation. However, future dividends are not a given even for companies with a good track record. Some considerations to keep in mind:
Dividends are adjusted: During moments of economic uncertainty, a company may reduce or cut its dividend payments altogether to preserve capital to weather storms previewed ahead. Alternatively, companies may increase their dividend payments in a bullish economic environment to attract investors.
Changes in the percentage yield: These stocks may offer a lower dividend yield when facing different overall market conditions, changes in financial stability, and adjustments to their market value.
Some dividend yields can mislead: Some dividend-paying companies may increase their dividend yield to attract investors in the short term, though higher dividends can be unsustainable. That is why it’s important to pay close attention to a company’s payout ratio.
How to Pick Dividend Stocks
Investors should pursue companies with robust fundamentals, long-term profitability, and a sustainable dividend yield that has consistently increased for some years.
How to Find Dividend Stocks
When reviewing dividend-paying companies, it is notable that certain sectors, such as finance, energy, and real estate investment trusts, typically pay higher dividends than other industries. When picking the right company, investors should also pay attention to a company’s peers to determine if a dividend yield is out of the ordinary for the sector.
What Should Investors Look For in Dividend Stocks?
Dividend yield: The dividend yield reflects the annual value of dividends received relative to a security’s per-share market value. You can calculate this by dividing the annual dividend per share by the current stock price, though most brokerage platforms and financial news sites publish such information.
For example, if Company ABC issues a dividend of $10 annually with a current share price of $100, it has a dividend yield of 10% ($10 / $100 = 10%). Investors pursuing high-yielding stocks can start by screening for issues with a divided yield above a certain percentage. Keep in mind that dividend yield is only one of many metrics to consider before investing.
Dividend payout ratio (DPR): The DPR gauges how much of a company’s earnings are paid to shareholders. Investors calculate the ratio by dividing total dividends by net income. This, too, can be found on financial sites and other platforms.
For instance, if Company ABC reports a net income of $50,000 and pays $15,000 in annual dividends, it would have a DPR of 30% ($15,000 / $50,000 = 30%). That is, the company pays 30% of its earnings to shareholders. Typically, a company that issues less than 50% of its net earnings in dividends is considered stable and has the potential for sustainable long-term earnings growth.
Dividend coverage ratio: This measures the number of times a company can pay dividends to its shareholders. Investors calculate the dividend coverage ratio by dividing a company’s annual earnings per share by its annual dividend per share.
For example, if Company ABC reported $10 million in net income with an annual dividend of $2 million to shareholders, it has a dividend coverage ratio of five ($10 million / $2 million). Usually, investors see a higher dividend coverage ratio as more favorable.
The Bottom Line
Investors pursuing dividend-paying companies should pay close attention to the overall financial condition of the stock they are planning to invest in. A company may offer a high dividend yield even when financially unstable, and it’s important not to invest without a proper understanding of the underlying stock.
It is essential to maintain a consistent strategy when going the dividend-payment route. There are advantages, including passive income, for choosing companies that issue dividends and provide a steady stream of income. Another great aspect of dividend investing is reinvesting dividends paid out by a company, using them to buy more shares, and taking advantage of compounding returns.
The comments, opinions, and analyses expressed on Investopedia are for informational purposes only. Read our warranty and liability disclaimer for more info.
As of the date this article was written, the author does not own any of the above stocks.
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Get the most passive income possible with these top dividend stocks
Amazon.com: Its Role in the U.S. Industry
Introduction
Amazon.com, often simply referred to as Amazon, has transformed from an online bookstore into a colossal global conglomerate that has fundamentally altered the landscape of retail, technology, and numerous other industries. Founded in 1994 by Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s rapid growth and diversification have made it a central player in the U.S. economy. Its impact is felt across various sectors, including e-commerce, logistics, cloud computing, entertainment, and even artificial intelligence. This article explores Amazon’s role in the U.S. industry, examining its influence, achievements, and the challenges it faces.
The Rise of Amazon.com
Origins and Early Growth
Amazon began as an online bookstore in Bezos’s garage in Bellevue, Washington. The vision was simple but revolutionary: to create an online platform where people could buy books. Bezos recognized the potential of the internet to disrupt traditional retail and chose books as his starting point due to their wide appeal and ease of distribution. By offering a vast selection and competitive prices, Amazon quickly gained a foothold in the market.
The company’s initial public offering (IPO) in 1997 marked the beginning of its journey toward becoming a dominant player in the U.S. and global markets. Amazon’s early success was driven by its focus on customer satisfaction, an extensive inventory, and a commitment to fast and reliable delivery. This focus laid the foundation for its expansion into other product categories and services.
Diversification and Expansion
Amazon’s diversification strategy began with the introduction of new product categories, such as electronics, toys, and apparel. This move positioned Amazon as a one-stop shop for consumers, significantly expanding its customer base. The company also introduced its marketplace platform, allowing third-party sellers to offer their products alongside Amazon’s own inventory. This not only increased the variety of products available but also created a new revenue stream for the company through commissions on sales.
One of the most significant milestones in Amazon’s diversification was the launch of Amazon Web Services (AWS) in 2006. AWS provided cloud computing services to businesses, enabling them to rent computing power and storage rather than investing in expensive infrastructure. This service quickly became a cornerstone of Amazon’s business, contributing significantly to its profitability and establishing Amazon as a leader in the tech industry.
Amazon’s Role in E-Commerce
Transforming Retail
Amazon’s impact on the retail industry cannot be overstated. It has revolutionized the way consumers shop, shifting much of retail activity from brick-and-mortar stores to online platforms. The convenience of shopping from home, coupled with Amazon’s vast selection and competitive pricing, has led to a fundamental change in consumer behavior. This shift has forced traditional retailers to adapt, leading to the rise of omnichannel strategies that integrate online and offline sales.
The concept of “one-click shopping,” patented by Amazon in 1999, further streamlined the online shopping experience. This innovation reduced the friction in the purchasing process, contributing to higher conversion rates and reinforcing Amazon’s dominance in e-commerce. Additionally, Amazon Prime, launched in 2005, offered customers free two-day shipping and other benefits for an annual fee, further solidifying customer loyalty and increasing the frequency of purchases.
Impact on Small Businesses
While Amazon has provided opportunities for small businesses through its marketplace platform, it has also posed challenges. On the one hand, small businesses gain access to a vast customer base and the logistics infrastructure that Amazon offers. On the other hand, they face intense competition, not only from other third-party sellers but also from Amazon itself. The company’s ability to undercut prices and its control over the marketplace platform have led to concerns about fairness and market power.
Moreover, Amazon’s algorithms and data-driven approach to retail have raised questions about the transparency of how products are promoted and priced on the platform. Small businesses often struggle to achieve visibility without spending on Amazon’s advertising services, which can be costly. Despite these challenges, many small businesses continue to rely on Amazon as a vital sales channel, underscoring its central role in the U.S. retail industry.
Amazon in the Logistics and Supply Chain Industry
Revolutionizing Logistics
Amazon’s impact extends beyond retail into logistics and supply chain management. To fulfill its promise of fast and reliable delivery, Amazon has invested heavily in building a sophisticated logistics network. This network includes a vast network of fulfillment centers, advanced robotics, and a growing fleet of delivery vehicles, including drones.
Amazon’s logistics capabilities have set new standards for the industry. The company has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in terms of speed and efficiency, challenging traditional logistics providers like FedEx and UPS. Amazon’s commitment to customer satisfaction has driven innovations such as same-day and even one-hour delivery in select areas, further raising consumer expectations.
In-House Logistics Services
In recent years, Amazon has taken steps to reduce its reliance on third-party logistics providers by expanding its in-house delivery capabilities. The launch of Amazon Logistics, a service that uses independent contractors to deliver packages, is a testament to this strategy. This move has enabled Amazon to exert greater control over the delivery process and reduce costs.
However, this expansion has not been without controversy. Amazon’s use of independent contractors has sparked debates about labor practices and the gig economy. Critics argue that Amazon’s business model places financial and physical burdens on its delivery drivers, who are often classified as independent contractors rather than employees. This classification exempts Amazon from providing benefits and protections typically afforded to employees, such as health insurance and minimum wage guarantees.
Amazon Web Services: The Backbone of the Internet
Dominating Cloud Computing
Amazon Web Services (AWS) has emerged as one of the most significant contributors to Amazon’s success. As the leading provider of cloud computing services, AWS powers a vast portion of the internet, supporting everything from startups to large enterprises. Its services include computing power, storage, databases, machine learning, and more.
AWS’s dominance in cloud computing has had a profound impact on the tech industry. By providing scalable and cost-effective solutions, AWS has lowered the barriers to entry for new businesses, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Companies no longer need to invest heavily in physical infrastructure; instead, they can rent the necessary resources on demand from AWS.
Economic Impact and Innovation
The success of AWS has not only boosted Amazon’s financial performance but also contributed to the broader U.S. economy. AWS has created jobs, driven innovation, and supported the growth of numerous tech companies. Its services have become integral to the operations of many businesses, from streaming services like Netflix to financial institutions and government agencies.
AWS’s role in advancing technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning has also been significant. By making these technologies accessible through cloud services, AWS has enabled companies to develop new applications and services that were previously out of reach. This has spurred growth in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and entertainment.
Amazon’s Influence on Entertainment and Media
Amazon Studios and Prime Video
Amazon’s foray into the entertainment industry began with the launch of Amazon Studios and Prime Video. These platforms have become key players in the streaming wars, competing with giants like Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max. Amazon Studios produces original content, including critically acclaimed series like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and The Boys, as well as feature films.
Prime Video, available as part of the Amazon Prime membership, has become a major driver of subscriber growth. By offering a mix of original content and licensed programming, Amazon has been able to attract a diverse audience. The company’s investment in high-quality content has not only boosted its streaming service but also positioned it as a significant player in Hollywood.
Impact on the Publishing Industry
Amazon’s origins as an online bookstore continue to influence the publishing industry. The company has become the largest bookseller in the world, both in physical books and e-books. The Kindle, Amazon’s e-reader, revolutionized the way people consume books, making digital reading mainstream.
However, Amazon’s dominance in the book market has raised concerns among publishers and authors. The company’s pricing strategies and negotiation tactics have led to disputes over revenue sharing and control. Amazon’s influence over the publishing industry extends to self-publishing, where its Kindle Direct Publishing platform allows authors to bypass traditional publishers and reach readers directly. While this has democratized publishing, it has also led to an oversaturation of the market and challenges in quality control.
Challenges and Criticisms
Regulatory Scrutiny
Amazon’s immense size and influence have made it a target for regulatory scrutiny. In the U.S. and abroad, lawmakers and regulators have raised concerns about the company’s market power, labor practices, and treatment of third-party sellers. Antitrust investigations have been launched to determine whether Amazon engages in anti-competitive behavior, such as favoring its own products over those of third-party sellers on its platform.
The company’s expansion into various industries has also led to concerns about its dominance and potential to stifle competition. Critics argue that Amazon’s control over data, logistics, and retail gives it an unfair advantage, making it difficult for smaller companies to compete. In response, there have been calls for greater regulation and even the potential breakup of Amazon into smaller entities.
Labor Practices and Workers’ Rights
Amazon’s labor practices have come under intense scrutiny, particularly in its fulfillment centers and delivery network. Reports of grueling working conditions, high injury rates, and inadequate breaks have sparked widespread criticism. Workers have organized protests and strikes, demanding better pay, safer working conditions, and the right to unionize.
The company’s use of technology to monitor and manage workers has also raised ethical concerns. Amazon’s reliance on algorithms to track productivity and enforce performance targets has been criticized for creating a dehumanizing work environment. The company’s resistance to unionization efforts has further fueled debates about workers’ rights and corporate responsibility.
Environmental Impact
As one of the largest companies in the world, Amazon’s environmental impact is significant. The company’s vast logistics network and rapid delivery services contribute to carbon emissions and packaging waste. Amazon has faced criticism for its role in driving consumerism and its contribution to environmental degradation.
In response, Amazon has pledged to become more sustainable. The company launched the Climate Pledge in 2019, committing to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. Amazon has also invested in renewable energy, electric delivery vehicles, and sustainable packaging. While these efforts are a step in the right direction, critics argue that more needs to be done to address the environmental impact of the company’s operations.
