Nine Income Stocks With Positive Dividend Trends

When evaluating a dividend stock, one of the criteria I look for is a rising dividend stream over time. I prefer to invest in companies which have consistently raised dividends for at least ten years in a row. I also examine the dividend record using as much historical data as available. I specifically look for prior dividend cuts, a pattern of significant dividend increases as well as a history of significant distribution payments. Most importantly, I look for the trend in dividend payments to be higher each year. I have highlighted the following stocks, which have raised dividends for more than five years in a row and also announced distribution increases over the past week: Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P. (KMP) owns and manages energy transportation and storage assets. This MLP raised its quarterly distributions to $1.14/unit. This dividend achiever has consistently raised distributions for fifteen years in a row. Yield: 6% (analysis) Kimberly-Clark Corporation (KMB), together with its subsidiaries, engages in the manufacture and marketing of various health care products worldwide. The company operates in four segments: Personal Care, Consumer Tissue, K-C Professional & Other, and Health Care. The company raised its quarterly dividend by 6.10% to 70 cents/share. This marked the 40th consecutive annual dividend increase for this dividend aristocrat. Yield: 4.20% (analysis) Sonoco Products Company (SON) provides industrial and consumer packaging products, and packaging services in North and South America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. The company raised its quarterly dividends by 3.60% to 29 cents/share. This marked the 28th consecutive annual dividend increase for this dividend champion. Yield: 3.30% PPG Industries, Inc.12... Read more