Top 10 ‘Dividend Kings’ to Invest In for Reliable Growth

A “Dividend King” is a company that has managed to increase its dividend payments to shareholders for at least 50 consecutive years. This title is a testament to the company's enduring business model, financial stability, and commitment to returning value to its shareholders. Being labeled as a dividend king is not just a mark of prestige; it reflects a business's resilience through various economic cycles, including recessions, market downturns, and changing industry landscapes.

For those considering investing in a ‘dividend king', there are various reasons which make such stocks attractive.  These include, but are not limited to the following.

• reliable income stream
• inflation protection
• compounding growth
• indicative of strong financial health

Those usually attracted to such stocks include individuals looking for a steady and reliable income (e.g., retirees), conservative investors with a low tolerance for risk, and long-term investors looking to take advantage of compounding growth on issued dividends.

Longest Standing Dividend Kings

Currently, there are roughly 50 active dividend kings representing a broad range of industries, with various companies on the precipice of attaining this vaunted title.  Below are the top 10 longest-standing examples of publicly traded dividend kings in North America.

*Figures provided below were accurate at the time of writing and are subject to change.  Any potential investor should verify metrics*

1. American States Water Co

American States Water Company (AWR) is a premier utility company based in the United States, serving millions of customers with water and electricity services, primarily in California.  With a remarkable record of increasing its dividend for 70 consecutive years, AWR is the quintessential Dividend King, showcasing its extraordinary commitment to shareholder value.  The company's resilient business model has underpinned this impressive streak of dividend growth, focused on its services' essential and non-cyclical nature, ensuring steady demand regardless of economic conditions.

Additionally, AWR's strategic investments in infrastructure and technology have bolstered its operational efficiency and regulatory compliance, enabling sustainable growth and financial stability.  Its prudent financial management, characterized by a strong balance sheet and careful capital allocation, has further supported its ability to raise dividends consistently, making it a standout choice for income-focused investors seeking reliability and long-term growth.

At the time of writing, AWR was listed by the majority of analysts as a ‘Hold'.  This company has increased its dividends for 70 consecutive years and counting.

2. Dover Corp.

Dover Corporation (DOV) is a diversified global manufacturer that delivers innovative equipment and components, specialty systems, and support services through various operating companies.  It caters to a wide range of markets, including industrial, energy, fluids, and refrigeration & food equipment sectors.

Dover has maintained its status as a dividend king through its diversified business model. This model reduces dependence on any single market or geographical region, mitigating risks and stabilizing cash flows.

The company's focus on innovation, customer-centric solutions, and strategic acquisitions has driven consistent revenue growth and operational efficiency.  Furthermore, Dover's disciplined approach to capital allocation, emphasizing organic growth alongside shareholder returns, has enabled it to maintain a healthy balance sheet and sustain its dividend growth strategy, marking it as a beacon of reliability and growth for income-seeking investors.

At the time of writing, DOV was listed by the majority of analysts as a ‘Strong Buy‘.  This company has increased its dividends for 69 consecutive years and counting.

3. Northwest Natural Holdings

At the time of writing, NWN was listed by the majority of analysts as a ‘Buy‘.  This company has increased its dividends for 69 consecutive years and counting.

4. Genuine Parts Company

Genuine Parts Company (GPC), a titan in the distribution of automotive and industrial replacement parts and business products, embodies the essence of enduring shareholder value with its remarkable track record of dividend growth. Its consistency and resilience have allowed it to maintain its status as a dividend king for nearly 70 years.

The cornerstone of GPC's sustained success lies in its strategic diversification across multiple sectors and global markets, which significantly mitigates risk and ensures a stable income stream. Integral to its operations is a focus on customer satisfaction, achieved through technological innovation in inventory and service management. This, in turn, cultivates loyalty and drives sales. GPC’s strategic acquisition strategy broadens its market reach and fortifies its industry position, underpinning its growth trajectory.

Furthermore, GPC's financial management, marked by a strong balance sheet and thoughtful reinvestment into its core operations, exemplifies its strategic approach to fostering long-term stability and growth.  This blend of strategic expansion, operational efficiency, and financial prudence makes Genuine Parts Company another quintessential investment for those prioritizing income and stability within their investment portfolios.

At the time of writing, GPC was listed by the majority of analysts as a ‘Buy‘.  This company has increased its dividends for 69 consecutive years and counting.

5. Parker-Hannifin Corporation

Parker-Hannifin Corporation (PH) epitomizes excellence in delivering shareholder value and is grounded in its leadership of motion and control technologies.  The company's sustained success is attributed to its strategic expansion, both organically and through acquisitions, and a steadfast commitment to innovation across its diverse markets, including aerospace and electromechanical systems.

Operationally, PH leverages lean manufacturing and Six Sigma to enhance efficiency and product quality, while its financial strategies are characterized by prudent capital management and a balanced approach to growth investment and shareholder returns.  This robust blend of strategic innovation, operational excellence, and financial prudence ensures Parker-Hannifin's market competitiveness and capacity to maintain stable dividend growth, affirming its appeal to investors seeking reliability and long-term growth.

At the time of writing, PH was listed by the majority of analysts as a ‘Strong Buy‘.  This company has increased its dividends for 68 consecutive years and counting.

6. Procter & Gamble Co.

For decades, Procter & Gamble (PG) has showcased a blend of innovation, strategic market presence, and financial discipline.  This consumer goods giant, known for its diverse portfolio of trusted brands, attributes its enduring success to a keen focus on consumer insights and product innovation, ensuring its offerings meet evolving consumer needs.

PG's global market strategy is supported by a robust supply chain and an agile marketing approach, allowing it to respond dynamically to changing market trends and consumer preferences.

Financially, the company demonstrates a strong commitment to operational efficiency and shareholder value, managing its resources wisely to support sustainable growth and maintain a steady dividend increase.  This strategic approach to innovation, market adaptation, and financial stewardship positions Procter & Gamble as a prime example of a company that leads in its industry and provides consistent value and growth for its shareholders, reinforcing its attractiveness to investors looking for stable and reliable returns.

At the time of writing, PG was listed by the majority of analysts as a ‘Strong Buy‘.  This company has increased its dividends for 68 consecutive years and counting.

7. Emerson Electric Co.

Emerson Electric Co. (EMR) is a global technology and engineering company that thrives by delivering cutting-edge solutions across a wide range of industrial, commercial, and residential markets.  The company's success is built on a foundation of continuous innovation in its product offerings and a strategic focus on high-growth markets, ensuring its technologies meet the evolving needs of its diverse customer base.

Emerson's operational excellence is underpinned by its Lean principles, driving efficiency, productivity, and quality across its global operations.

Financially, Emerson exhibits prudent capital allocation and a steadfast focus on generating shareholder value, balancing reinvestment in the business with returning capital to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases.  This blend of technological leadership, strategic market positioning, and rigorous financial management enables Emerson Electric Co. to maintain its competitive edge and sustain its dividend growth, making it a compelling investment for those seeking stability and long-term value.

At the time of writing, EMR was listed by the majority of analysts as a ‘Strong Buy'.  This company has increased its dividends for 67 consecutive years and counting.

8. 3M Company

3M (MMM) is renowned for its wide array of products spanning multiple industries—including healthcare, consumer goods, and safety—3M's sustained success is rooted in its relentless pursuit of innovation, underscored by its significant investment in research and development.  This commitment ensures a continuous pipeline of groundbreaking products that address the evolving needs of its global customer base.

Strategically, 3M has mastered the art of diversification in its product lineup and across its operational footprint, enabling it to tap into new markets and mitigate sector-specific risks.  Operationally, the company adheres to operational and efficiency principles, further enhancing its profitability and competitiveness.

Financially, 3M showcases robust capital management practices, carefully balancing reinvestment in growth opportunities with rewarding shareholders through consistent dividend increases and share buybacks.  This balanced approach to innovation, market expansion, and financial discipline has solidified 3M's position as a leading multinational conglomerate and a dependable choice for investors seeking reliable returns and long-term investment stability.

At the time of writing, MMM was listed by the majority of analysts as a ‘‘Buy‘.  This company has increased its dividends for 67 consecutive years and counting.

9. Cincinnati Financial Corporation

Cincinnati Financial Corporation (CINF) is a leading property casualty insurance company in the United States. Its enduring success can be attributed to its comprehensive approach to risk management, customer-focused insurance solutions, and deep commitment to agent partnerships, which foster strong client loyalty and steady revenue streams. Strategically, the company's diversified portfolio across commercial, personal, and excess and surplus lines insurance mitigates risk and capitalizes on market opportunities.

Operationally, Cincinnati Financial leverages advanced analytics and technology to enhance underwriting precision, claims management, and customer service, ensuring operational efficiency and competitiveness.

Financially, the company is distinguished by its sound capital management, solid balance sheet, and conservative investment approach, which support sustainable growth and enable continuous dividend increases.  This strategic, operational, and financial discipline underscores Cincinnati Financial's resilience and adaptability, making it a reliable choice for investors seeking stable dividends and long-term value.

At the time of writing, CINF was listed by the majority of analysts as a ‘Buy‘.  This company has increased its dividends for 64 consecutive years and counting.

10. Coca Cola Co.

Coca-Cola (KO) owes much of its success to its unparalleled portfolio of beverages, catering to a global audience with an array of tastes and preferences underpinned by one of the world's most recognizable and beloved brands.  Strategically, Coca-Cola has adeptly navigated shifting consumer trends towards healthier and more diverse beverage options, expanding its offerings beyond its flagship sodas to include water, tea, coffee, and energy drinks. This ensures its relevance in a rapidly evolving market.

The company's expansive distribution network, innovative marketing strategies, and strategic partnerships have further solidified its market dominance and ability to reach consumers worldwide.

Financially, Coca-Cola exemplifies fiscal discipline and a strong commitment to returning value to shareholders, balancing investments in growth and innovation with a consistent policy of dividend increases.  This blend of iconic brand equity, strategic agility, and financial stewardship positions Coca-Cola as a stalwart investment, appealing to those seeking reliable income and long-term growth.

At the time of writing, KO was listed by the majority of analysts as a ‘‘Strong Buy'.  This company has increased its dividends for 63 consecutive years and counting.