I just got the latest dividend stats from S&P, and they’re grim. Six companies — basically all the financials that went under in September — cost investors $3.8 billion in dividends. So far in 2008, a full 30 financial comapnies have decreased their payments, leading to $24.1 billion in missed dividends.
On the positive side, 14 companies increased their dividends last month. What’s more, dividend-paying stocks continue to outperform their non-paying brethren.
So, in my book, it’s still the right strategy to buy and hold the best dividend-paying stocks out there. Not only will they continue paying you through the market turbulence, but they should also preserve more of your investment capital in the process.
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When are you going to discuss Bank Of America’s 50% dividend cut?
Hi, Nick. I don’t know of any free programs off the top of my head. However, you could always check out foreign investing portals/websites that may offer screening tools for “local” exchanges. Your broker may also offer something.
I have a Bloomberg terminal, which allows me to search any exchange out there. While I generally limit my screens to shares that trade here in the U.S. for Dividend Superstars, I will consider doing a future Money and Markets column on foreign-listed
dividend payers if that’s something you’re interested in!
What dividend stocks would you recommend? What about utilities?
Nilus Mattive Reply:
January 15th, 2009 at 5:40 AM
Hi, Judy. I am certainly positive on utilities right now, and am recommending a few in Dividend Superstars. I also continue to believe that the other traditional “recession-resistant” stock sectors — such as consumer staples and healthcare — will hold up better in 2009. For all my latest stock ideas, check out my newsletter.
nilus
when does your news letter come out
Nilus Mattive Reply:
January 22nd, 2009 at 9:36 AM
The fourth Friday of every month. Next issue will be live tomorrow!