Top 7 High-Yield Dividend Stocks to Watch in 2024

Dividends are payments made quarterly by companies to their shareholders, providing a steady income stream. While most dividends are paid every four months, some companies may distribute dividends more frequently or less often. These payments are often in cash, additional shares, or stock bonuses. Not all stocks offer dividends, so selecting reliable dividend-paying stocks is key for income-focused investors. These stocks can help grow your investments and provide regular payouts, making them an attractive option in your portfolio.

Here are seven leading dividend stocks worth considering:
• Apple Inc.: Apple leads as a top dividend payer, offering approximately 2%, translating to about $2.28 per share annually. Their earnings per share (EPS) stand at around $8.58, indicating strong profitability that supports future dividend growth. With consistent income increases, Apple is positioned to raise dividends in upcoming years.

• Google (Alphabet Inc.): Although Google does not currently pay dividends, it reports robust annual net income growth, with earnings per share reaching $25.81. Their substantial cash reserves make dividend payments possible soon, responding to shareholder demand.

• The Home Depot: The retail giant offers a dividend yield of about 2.2%, paying $2.78 per share annually. Its EPS is around $5.91. The company has consistently increased profits, from $5.3 billion five years ago to over $8 billion today, supporting higher dividend payouts.

• Oak Tree Capital: Specializing in distressed debt investments, Oak Tree Capital offers a dividend yield of 5.6%. With over $20 billion in cash, the firm maintains strong profitability, making it an attractive income investment.

• Brookfield Infrastructure Partners: This limited partnership boasts a 4.5% dividend rate, backed by steady growth and increasing stock prices. They operate in transportation, utilities, and infrastructure sectors, generating reliable cash flows to sustain dividend payments.

• Diageo: As the world's largest alcohol producer, Diageo pays dividends around 5%, with a stock yield of 2.5%. Operating in over 180 countries, the company reports a 14% sales increase and 28% profit growth, supporting its dividend stability.

• Total SE: A global leader in oil and gas, Total SE maintains a dividend rate of approximately 5.1%. With diversified assets worldwide and recent income growth, the French energy giant continues to deliver attractive dividends to investors.