Dividend stocks have quietly been some of the better performers in 2026. In June, chip stocks came under pressure after Broadcom (AVGO) issued a weaker-than-expected chip sales outlook, which sparked a broader selloff across the sector and pulled the Nasdaq 100 ($IUXX) down as much as 3.29% in one session on June 23.
At the same time, dividend stocks were moving the other way, attracting investors looking for income and a bit more stability. HSBC Holdings (HSBC) raised its dividend by 350% in March after previously cutting it, while Crown Holdings (CCK) lifted its payout by 34.62%. That trend shows big dividend hikes are becoming a notable theme in 2026.
