As most investors know, dividend-paying stocks far outperform non-dividend-paying stocks over the long term, and the top performers are those that increase their payments as often as possible. With this in mind, let’s take a look at three stocks with yields over 4% that have increased their annual dividend payments for at least four consecutive years.
1. Black Diamond Group Ltd.: 6.5% yield
Black Diamond Group Ltd. (TSX: BDI) is one of the largest renters and sellers of portable workforce accommodations and workspace solutions to businesses in North America and Australia. It pays a monthly dividend of $0.08 per share, or $0.96 per share annually, giving its stock a 6.5% yield at today’s levels. The company has also increased its dividend for four consecutive years, and I think it will announce another increase in the second half of 2015.
2. AltaGas Ltd.: 4.8% yield
AltaGas Ltd. (TSX: ALA) is one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America, with operations in the natural gas, power, and regulated utilities industries. It pays a monthly dividend of $0.16 per share, or $1.92 per share annually, which gives its stock a 4.8% yield at current levels. AltaGas has also increased its dividend for five consecutive years, and its increased amount of free cash flow could allow for this streak to continue for another five years at least.
3. Shaw Communications Inc.: 4.3% yield
Shaw Communications Inc. (TSX: SJR.B)(NYSE: SJR) is one of the largest telecommunications and media companies in Canada. It pays a monthly dividend of $0.09875 per share, or $1.185 per share annually, giving its stock a 4.3% yield at today’s levels. The company has also increased its dividend for 12 consecutive years, showing that it is strongly dedicated to maximizing shareholder value and making it one of the top dividend-growth plays in the market today.
Which of these dividend growth stocks belong in your portfolio?
Black Diamond Group, AltaGas, and Shaw Communications represent three of the top dividend-paying investment opportunities in the market today. All Foolish investors should strongly consider establishing positions in at least one of them.
