New York, NY – Investors received positive news in the last week of April with five companies announcing dividend increases, including former dividend cutter Kinder Morgan (KMI), now on a new 7-year streak. The companies in the list showed an average increase of 7.5% with a median increase of 9.6%.

Adhering to a dividend-growth strategy can yield increasing payouts from companies that regularly raise dividends. By actively monitoring such companies, investors can identify top performers poised for dividend growth in the near future. This information can guide savvy investment decisions and help establish a well-balanced portfolio for long-term success.

The data for these dividend increases is sourced from a merger of information collected from the “U.S. Dividend Champions” spreadsheet and upcoming dividend data from NASDAQ. All companies in the list must have a consistent track record of dividend growth over at least five years, ensuring a level of financial stability.

The ex-dividend date is crucial for investors as it determines eligibility for upcoming dividends or distributions. Purchasing shares before the ex-dividend date is necessary to qualify, incentivizing timely investment decisions.

Different categories have been outlined to classify companies based on their dividend streak length, ranging from “King” for 50+ years of consistent dividend growth to “Challenger” for companies with at least a 5-year streak. This classification system helps investors assess the reliability and longevity of a company’s dividend performance.

Stock performance metrics like pricing action and the P/E ratio can provide additional insights for investors. Understanding these metrics alongside dividend growth rates can offer a comprehensive view of a company’s financial health and potential for future growth.

Analyzing historical returns can help investors gauge the performance of individual stocks compared to benchmark ETFs like the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD). Evaluating total returns over a significant period can reveal trends in stock performance and inform investment decisions.

Investors should conduct thorough research and analysis before making any investment decisions to ensure their portfolio aligns with their financial goals and risk tolerance. By staying informed and proactive, investors can capitalize on opportunities for growth and financial success.