A company that can raise its payout for decades has usually done more than just survive; it has found a way to stay relevant and reward shareholders through different market cycles. And if you think of how many world-changing events have come and gone over the two and a half decades, you’d realize that paying dividends consistently is already an impressive feat.
That is why Dividend Aristocrats remain a favorite group for income-focused investors. These are S&P 500 companies that have increased their dividends for at least 25 consecutive years.
