3 Stocks That Raised Their Dividends in Recent Weeks

As wise investors know, dividend-paying stocks far outperform their non-dividend-paying counterparts over the long term, and the top returners are those that increase their rates as often as possible. With these two facts in mind, let’s take a look at three stocks that recently increased their dividends, so you can determine if you should buy one or more of them today.

1. Clearwater Seafoods Inc.

Clearwater Seafoods Inc. (TSX:CLR) is North America’s largest vertically integrated harvester, processor, and distributor of premium shellfish. Its product offerings also include lobster, scallops, clams, shrimp, and crab.

In its third-quarter earnings report on November 13, it announced a 25% increase to its dividend to $0.05 per share quarterly, or $0.20 per share annually, and this gives its stock a 1.6% yield at today’s levels.

It is also important to note that Clearwater has raised its annual dividend payment for two consecutive years, and this increase puts it on pace for 2016 to mark the third consecutive year with an increase.

2. Enbridge Inc.

Enbridge Inc. (TSX: ENB)(NYSE: ENB) is one of world’s leading transporters and distributors of crude oil and natural gas. It is also the second-largest producer of wind energy in Canada, and it has a significant presence in contract crude oil storage in Canada and the United States.

On December 3 it announced a 14% increase to its dividend to $0.53 per share quarterly, or $2.12 per share annually, and this gives its stock a 4.6% yield at today’s levels.

Investors must also make two very important notes. First, Enbridge has raised its annual dividend payment for 20 consecutive years, and this increase puts it on pace for 2016 to mark the 21st consecutive year with an increase. Second, the company has stated that it intends to increase its dividend by another 14-16% annually through 2019, making it one of the market’s top dividend-growth plays.

3. Allied Properties Real Estate Investment

Allied Properties Real Estate Investment (TSX: AP.UN) is one of the largest owners of commercial real estate in Canada with 147 properties that total approximately 10.5 million square feet of gross leasable area.

On December 9 it announced a 2.7% increase to it distribution to $0.125 per share monthly, or $1.50 per share annually, and this gives its stock a 4.7% yield at today’s levels.

Investors must also note that Allied has raised its annual distribution for four consecutive years, and this increase puts it on pace for 2016 to mark the fifth consecutive year with an increase.

Does one of these dividend growers belong in your portfolio?

Clearwater Seafoods, Enbridge, and Allied Properties REIT recently increased their dividends, and all represent attractive long-term investment opportunities today. Foolish investors should take a closer look and strongly consider establishing positions in one of them today.