Twelve Dividend Stocks Growing Distributions

Every week I screen the list of companies whose board of directors has approved an increase in their dividend. I then further narrow the list by including only companies which have shown commitment to raising distributions for at least five consecutive years. The purpose of this exercise is to note whether any companies in my dividend portfolio are raising distributions and also to identify any hidden dividend gems. Further screening based on quantitative factors such as valuation, earnings growth, dividend sustainability could add value by decreasing the list of potential candidates for further research to a more manageable level. Last week, there were twelve stocks which announced dividend hikes: The Chubb Corporation (CB), through its subsidiaries, provides property and casualty insurance to businesses and individuals. The company raised its quarterly distributions by 5.40% to 39 cents/share. This Dividend Aristocrat has raised distributions for 46 years in a row. The company has managed to raise distributions by 8.30% on average over the past decade. Yield: 2.60% (analysis) Colgate-Palmolive Company (CL), together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and markets consumer products worldwide. The company raised its quarterly distributions by 9.40% to 58 cents/share. This dividend champion has raised distributions for 48 years in a row. The company has managed to raise distributions by 12.40% on average over the past decade. Yield: 3% (analysis) Genuine Parts Company (GPC) distributes automotive replacement parts, industrial replacement parts, office products, and electrical/electronic materials in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, and Mexico. The company raised its quarterly dividend by 9.80% to 45 cents/share.123... Read more