
In an uncertain macroeconomic environment, boosting dividend payouts is a smart move. Higher yields give shareholders confidence, as companies that can pay up are likely to be more financially stable. In turn, investors tend to reward these resilient, income-paying names with long-term holdings.
Shell (SHEL) is one company hoping to stand out with its dividend policies. Analysts predict the company could increase its dividend by 10%-20% as early as 2026, supported by strong cash flow and share buybacks, which Barclays analysts estimate will come in at $14 billion in 2025. With Shell’s dividend yield already standing out at nearly 4%, this potential hike could make its stock even more appealing.