Dividends Value » PH

28 Dividend Stocks Acting Like a Money Machine *

D4L — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 07:30:05 +0000

Readers of this space know that the primary focus of my investing efforts is to build an ever-increasing income income stream by investing in dividend growth securities. This means that often I will choose a lower yielding security with better dividend growth prospects over a higher yielding security. As one that values diversity, I also invest in some high yield securities. However, any dividend stock that I invest in must have an increasing dividend.

Below are companies that have recently made their shareholders take notice with higher cash dividends:

Sensient Technologies (SXT) produces flavors, colors and fragrances for businesses operating in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals and personal care. January 21st the company increased its quarterly dividend 5% to $0.21/share. The dividend is payable March 1, 2011, to shareholders of record on February 9, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 7, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 2.4%.

El Paso Pipeline (EPB) is a partnership owns and operates natural gas transportation pipelines and storage assets. January 21st the partnership raised its quarterly distribution 7.3% to $0.44/share. The distribution will be paid February 15, 2011, on all outstanding units to holders of record as of the close of business on February 1, 2011. The ex-distribution date is January 28, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 5.2%.

Airgas (ARG) is a leading distributor of industrial, medical, and specialty gases and related equipment also distributes safety and other disposable supplies through its network of stores. January 21st the company increased its quarterly dividend 16% to $0.29/share. The dividend is payable on March 31, 2011 to shareholders of record as of March 15, 2011. The ex-dividend date is March 11, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 1.8%.

Navios Maritime (NMM) owns and operates dry bulk carriers in Greece. January 21st the partnership raised its quarterly distribution 2.4% to $0.43/share. The distribution is payable on February 14, 2011 to unit holders of record as of February 9, 2011. The ex-distribution date is February 7, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 9.1%.

Twin Disc Inc. (TWIN) designs, makes and distributes heavy-duty off-highway power transmission equipment for industrial, government, marine, and energy and natural resources markets. January 24th the company increased its quarterly dividend 14% to $0.08/share. The dividend is payable on March 1, 2011, to shareholders of record on February 11, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 9, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 1.1%.

Intel (INTC) is the world’s largest manufacturer of microprocessors, the central processing units of PCs, and also produces other semiconductor products. January 24th the company raised its quarterly dividend 15% to 18.12/share. The dividend is payable on March 1, 2011 to stockholders of record on February 7, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 3, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 3.48%.

Williams Partners (WPZ) is a limited partnership that engages in gathering, transporting, processing, and treating natural gas, as well as fractionating and storing natural gas liquids. January 24th the partnership increases quarterly distribution 2.2% to $0.7025/unit. The distribution is payable on February 11, 2011, to unitholders of record at the close of business on February 4, 2011. The ex-distribution date is February 2, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 6%.

Bladex (BLX) offers financial services for banks and corporations in Latin American and Caribbean. January 24th the company raised its quarterly dividend 17.7% to $0.20/share. The dividend is payable on February 11, 2011 to stockholders registered as of February 3, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 1, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 4.6%.

Martin Midstream (MMLP) engages in the storage and distribution of petroleum products and by-products primarily in the United States Gulf Coast region. January 24th the company increased its quarterly distribution 1.3% to $0.76/share. The distribution is payable on February 14, 2011 to common unitholders of record as of the close of business on February 3, 2011. The ex-distribution date is February 1, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 7.5%.

Norfolk Southern (NSC) operates 21,200 route miles serving 22 eastern states, the District of Columbia, and Ontario, Canada. January 25th the company raised its quarterly dividend 11% to $0.40/share. The dividend is payable on March 10, 2011, to stockholders of record on Feb. 4, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 2, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 2.5%.

National Instruments (NATI) is a provider of software and hardware technology solutions for creating custom measurement and automation systems typically used for design, control and test applications. January 25th the company increased its quarterly dividend 15.4% to $0.15/share. The dividend is payable on February 21, to shareholders of record on February 4, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 2, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 1.5%.

Rollins (ROL) provides pest and termite control services to residential and commercial customers. January 25th the company raised its quarterly dividend 16.7% to $0.07/share. The dividend is payable on March 10 to shareholders of record on Feb. 10. The ex-dividend date is Feb. 8. The yield based on the new payout is 1.45%.

Buckeye Tech (BKI) manufactures and markets specialty cellulose and absorbent fibers used in a variety of consumer products. January 26th the company increased its quarterly dividend 25% to $0.05/share. The yield based on the new payout is 1%.

RPC Inc. (RES) provides a range of specialized oilfield services and equipment primarily to independent and oil and gas companies. January 26th the company raised its quarterly dividend 47% to $0.07/share. The dividend is a 47% increase from the current rate of $0.0475/share. The dividend is payable March 10, 2011 to common stockholders of record at the close of business on February 10, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 8, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 1.6%.

Praxair (PX) is the largest producer of industrial gases in North and South America, and the second largest worldwide. It also provides ceramic and metallic coatings. January 26th the company increased its quarterly dividend 11% to $0.50/share. The dividend is payable on March 15, 2011 to shareholders of record on March 7, 2011. The ex-dividend date is March 3, 2011. PX is a Dividend Achiever and has raised its dividend for 18 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 2.2%.

Energen Corp (EGN) is involved in natural gas distribution, and oil and gas exploration and production. January 26th the company raised its quarterly dividend 3.8% to $0.135/share. The dividend is payable March 1, 2011, to shareholders of record on February 15, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 11, 2011. EGN is a Dividend Achiever and has raised its dividend for 18 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 1%.

Teekay GP (TGP) provides marine transportation services for liquefied natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and crude oil. January 26th the partnership increased its quarterly distribution 5% to $0.63/share. The cash distribution is payable on February 14, 2011 to all unitholders of record on February 7, 2011. The ex-distribution date is February 3, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 7.1%.

DPL Inc. (DPL) owns Dayton Power & Light, a utility that serves more than 500,000 electric retail customers in west central Ohio. January 26th the company increased its quarterly dividend 10% to $0.3325/share. The dividend is payable March 1, 2011 to common shareholders of record on February 15, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 11, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 5.0%.

Cardinal Financial (CFNL) provides banking products and services to customers in Virginia and greater Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. January 26th company raised its quarterly dividend 50% to $0.03/share. The dividend is payable on February 25, 2011 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on February 10, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 8, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 1%.

Eaton (ETN) products include electrical systems and components for power management, truck transmissions and fluid power systems, and services for industrial, mobile and aircraft equipment. January 27th the company increased its quarterly dividend 17% to $0.68 per common share. The dividend is payable on February 25 to shareholders of record at the close of business on February 7, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 3. The yield based on the new payout is 2.6%.

Time Warner (TWC) is the largest pure-play U.S. cable multiple system operator (MSO), recently counting nearly 12.6 million customers, mostly located in New York, the Carolinas, Ohio, Southern California, and Texas. January 27th the company raised its quarterly dividend 20% to $0.48/share. The quarterly dividend is payable in cash on March 15, 2011 to stockholders of record at the close of business on February 28, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 24, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 2.8%.

Sandy Spring (SASR) owns and operates Sandy Spring Bank, which offers commercial banking, retail banking, and trust services in Maryland. January 27th the company raised its quarterly dividend to $0.08/share. The dividend is payable February 16, 2011 to shareholders of record on February 9, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 7, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 1.7%.

Magellan Midstream Partners (MMP) is engaged in the transportation, storage and distribution of refined petroleum products primarily through its 9,500-mile pipeline system. January 27th the partnership increased its quarterly distribution 2% to $0.7575/share. The distribution is payable February 14 to unitholders of record at the close of business on February 7, 2011. The ex-distribution date is February 3, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 5.5%.

Harte-Hanks (HHS) provides direct marketing services and shopper advertising opportunities to local, regional, national and international consumer and business-to-business marketers. January 27th the company increased its quarterly dividend to $0.08/share. The dividend is payable on March 11 to shareholders of record on Feb. 25. The ex-dividend date is Feb. 23. The yield based on the new payout is 2.43%.

MarkWest Energy Partners (MWE) gathers, transports, and processes natural gas in the U.S. It also transports natural gas liquids and gathers and transports crude oil. January 27th the partnership increased its quarterly distribution 2% to $0.65/unit. The yield based on the new payout is 6.1%.

Arthur J. Gallagher (AJG) an international insurance brokerage and risk management services firm, is headquartered in Itasca, Illinois. January 27th the company raised its quarterly dividend 3% to $0.33/share. The dividend is payable on April 15, 2011 to shareholders of record as of March 31, 2011. The yield based on the new payout is 4.4%.

Parker Hannifin (PH) is a global maker of industrial pneumatic, hydraulic, and vacuum motion/control systems, including related pumps, valves, filters, hoses, etc. Its products are used in everything from jet engines to trucks and autos and utility turbines. January 27th the company increased its quarterly dividend 10% to $0.32/share. The dividend is payable March 4, 2011 to shareholders of record as of February 10, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 8, 2011. PH is a Dividend Achiever and has raised its dividend for 55 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 1.5%.

J. M. Smucker’s (SJM) products include coffee, fruit spreads, peanut butter, shortening and oils, ice cream toppings, health and natural foods, and beverages. January 27th the company raised its quarterly dividend 10% to $0.44/share. The dividend is payable on Tuesday, March 1, 2011, to shareholders of record at the close of business on Friday, February 11, 2011. The ex-dividend date is February 9, 2011. SJM is a Dividend Achiever and has raised its dividend for 12 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 2.8%.

Selecting stocks with increasing dividends is critical for an income growth strategy. The above list contains stocks that recently raised their dividends; it is not a list of recommend buys. As always, due diligence should be performed before buying or selling any stock. For a list of stocks with a long string of consecutive cash dividend increases, see this list.

Full Disclosure: Long INTC. See a list of all my income holdings here.

(Photo Credit)

16 Dividend Stocks Growing Future Yield *

D4L — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 07:30:11 +0000

In the southern U.S. where I live, there has been some controversy over harvesting forests of hardwoods and reseeding them with pines. Growing hardwoods is very similar to investing in dividend stocks. What you plant or invest in today will not yield much for years to come. That is not to say progress is not seen. It is just slow and deliberate. To grow hardwoods it takes great foresight and commitment to the process. The small investments we make in quality dividend stocks each month won’t yield large payments in the near-term. It will take time for the payments to grow and compound, but they will.

Below are several companies planting the seeds for future yield by increasing their cash dividends:

El Paso Pipeline (EPB) owns and operates natural gas transportation pipelines and storage assets. October 22nd the partnership increased its quarterly distribution 2.5% to $0.41/unit. The distribution is payable November 15, 2010, on all outstanding common and subordinated units to holders of record as of the close of business on November 1, 2010. The ex-dividend date is October 28, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 4.90%.

Coca-Cola Enterprises (CCE) is the world’s largest bottler of Coca-Cola beverage products. October 25th the company raised its quarterly dividend 33% to $0.12/share. The dividend is payable December 9, 2010 to shareholders of record on November 26, 2010. The ex-dividend date is November 24, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 1.99%.

NuStar Energy L.P. (NS) is a leading independent operator of crude oil and refined products pipelines as well as terminal storage facilities. October 25th the partnership increased its quarterly distribution 1% to $1.075/unit. The distribution is payable on November 5, 2010, to holders of record as of November 1, 2010. The ex-distribution date is October 28, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 6.82%.

PartnerRe Ltd. (PRE) is a global multi-line reinsurance company provides coverage in approximately 150 countries. October 25th the company raised its quarterly dividend 10% to $0.55/share. This marks the second increase in the common share dividend this year. The dividend is payable on December 1, 2010, to common shareholders of record on November 19, 2010, with the stock trading ex-dividend commencing November 17, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 2.51%.

Linn Energy (LINE) is an independent natural gas and oil company develops and acquires properties in Texas Panhandle and Los Angeles Basin. October 25th the partnership increased its quarterly dividend 5% to $0.66/unit. The distribution is payable on Nov. 12 to shareholders of record on Nov. 4. The ex-dividend date is Nov. 2. The yield based on the new payout is 7.89%.

Holly Energy Partners (HEP) owns and operates refined product pipeline and terminal facilities. October 26th the partnership raised its quarterly distribution 1.2% to $0.835/unit. This increase marks the twenty-fourth consecutive quarterly increase. The distribution will be paid November 12, 2010, to unitholders of record November 5, 2010. The ex-dividend date is November 3, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 6.65%.

American Electric Power (AEP) is an electric utility holding company has subsidiaries operating in 11 states in the U.S. October 26th the company increased its quarterly dividend 9.5% to $0.46/share. The dividend is payable on Dec. 10 to shareholders of record on Nov. 10. The ex-dividend date is Nov. 8. The yield based on the new payout is 5.02%.

Rogers Communications (RCI) is a Canadian communications and media company operates in three segments: Wireless, Cable, and Media. October 26th the company raised its quarterly dividend 4.1% to $0.32/share. The dividend is payable on January 4, 2011 to shareholders of record on November 18, 2010. The ex-dividend date is November 16, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 3.54%.

Molex (MOLX) makes electrical and electronic devices primarily for OEMs in the computer, telecommunications, home appliance, and home entertainment industries. October 26th the company increased its quarterly dividend 14.8% to $0.175/share. The dividend is payable on January 25, 2011 to shareholders of record on December 31, 2010. The ex-dividend date is December 29, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 3.40%.

Cintas (CTAS) operates a corporate identity uniform business and also provides entrance mats, cleaning services and supplies, first aid products, along with document management and shredding services. October 26th the company raised its annual dividend 2% to $0.49/share. The dividend is payable on December 15, 2010, to shareholders of record as of November 12, 2010. The ex-dividend date is November 10. CTAS is a Dividend Aristocrat and has raised its dividend for 27 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 1.81%.

UMB Financial (UMBF) owns four commercial banks, a brokerage company, a community development corporation, a consulting company, mutual fund servicing company and 14 subsidiaries. October 27th the company increased its quarterly dividend 5.4% to $0.195/share. The dividend is payable on December 30, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 10, 2010. The ex-dividend date is December 8, 2010. UMBF is a Dividend Achiever and has raised its dividend for 20 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 2.15%.

RPC (RES) provides a range of specialized oilfield services and equipment primarily to independent and oil and gas companies. October 27th the company raised its quarterly dividend 16.7% to $0.07/share and also announced a three-for-two split of the company’s common shares. The dividend is payable December 10, 2010 to common stockholders of record at the close of business on November 10, 2010. The ex-dividend date is November 8, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 1.20%.

Arrow Financial (AROW) offers commercial and consumer banking and financial products in U.S. October 27th the company increased its quarterly dividend 3.1% to $0.25/share. The dividend is payable December 15, 2010 to shareholders of record December 3, 2010. The ex-dividend date is December 1, 2010. AROW is a Dividend Achiever and has raised its dividend for 20 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 3.91%.

TAL International (TAL) leases of intermodal freight containers, and also engages in container management and sales. October 27th the company raised its quarterly dividend 14.3% to $0.40/share. The dividend is payable on December 23, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 2, 2010. The ex-dividend date is November 30, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 6.42%.

Strayer Education (STRA) offers academic programs via traditional classroom and online courses. October 28th the company increased its quarterly dividend 33% to $1.00/share. The dividend is payable on December 10, 2010 to shareholders of record as of November 26, 2010. The ex-dividend date is November 24, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 3.16%.

Parker Hannifin (PH) is a global maker of industrial pneumatic, hydraulic, and vacuum motion/control systems, including related pumps, valves, filters, hoses, etc. Its products are used in everything from jet engines to trucks and autos and utility turbines. October 28th the company raised its quarterly dividend 7.4% to $0.29/share. The dividend is payable December 3, 2010 to shareholders of record as of November 10, 2010. The ex-dividend date is November 8, 2010. PH is a Dividend Achiever and has raised its dividend for 55 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 1.53%.

Full Disclosure: No position in the aforementioned stocks. See a list of all my income holdings here.

(Photo Credit)

16 Confident and Secure Companies Boosting Dividends *

D4L — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 07:30:19 +0000

Are you confident and secure in your investing process? It appears many people are not, including the famed Canadian dividend investor Derek Foster who sold all his investments and friends/family who jump in and out of the market. I believe that most investors will lose money in the stock market over their lifetime. It is not that the market is a bad place to invest your money, but left unchecked the psychology of the market will lead you to do just the opposite of what you should to be doing. We must follow a process we are 100% confident in. Doubt is the gateway to destructive behavior. For me, dividend growth investing is what I am confident and secure in.

Below are several companies confident and secure enough in their business to increase their cash dividends:

EXCO Resources (XCO) is an independent oil and natural gas company that acquires, develops, and exploits onshore properties located in the continental U.S. August 5th the company increased its quarterly dividend 33% to $0.04/share. The dividend is payable on September 15, 2010 to holders of record on August 31, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 1.05%.

Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers (RBA) in an auctioneer of industrial equipment sells, through unreserved public auctions, a range of industrial equipments, trucks, and other assets used in the agricultural industries. August 6th the company raised its quarterly dividend to $0.105/share. The yield based on the new payout is 2.31%.

Buckeye GP Holdings L.P. (BGH) owns a small general partnership interest and incentive distribution rights in Buckeye Partners L.P. August 6th the partnership increased its quarterly distribution 4.7% to $0.45/unit. The distribution is payable on August 31, 2010 to unitholders of record on August 16, 2010. The ex-distribution date is August 12, 2010. Yield on the distribution is 4.1%. The yield based on the new payout is 4.17%.

Carlisle Co. (CSL) is a diversified manufacturer of rubber roofing and insulation, small tires and wheels, heavy duty braking systems, foodservice plastics, and specialty wire. August 6th the company raised its quarterly dividend 6.3% to $0.17/share. The dividend is payable on September 1, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on August 17, 2010. The ex-dividend date is August 15, 2010. CSL is a Dividend Achiever and has raised its dividend for 34 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 2.15%.

Illinois Tool Works (ITW) is a diversified manufacturer operates a portfolio of about 840 industrial and consumer businesses throughout the world. August 6th the company increased its quarterly dividend 10% to $0.34/share. The dividend will be paid on Wednesday, October 13, 2010 to stockholders of record on Thursday, September 30, 2010. The ex-dividend date is September 28, 2010. ITW is a Dividend Achiever and has raised its dividend for 47 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 3.01%.

Chemed Corp. (CHE) provides hospice services for patients with severe, life-limiting illnesses; and also provides plumbing and drain cleaning services. August 6th the company raised its quarterly dividend 16.7% to $0.14/share. The dividend is payable on September 7, 2010, to shareholders of record as of August 16, 2010. The ex-dividend date is August 12, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 1.05%.

CMS Energy (CMS) principal subsidiary is Consumers Energy, the largest utility in Michigan and the sixth largest gas and 13th largest electric utility in the U.S. August 6th the company raised its quarterly dividend 40% to $0.21/share. The yield based on the new payout is 4.97%.

Harleysville Group (HGIC) underwrites a broad array of personal and commercial coverages. These insurance coverages are marketed primarily in the Eastern and Midwestern United States. August 6th the company raised its quarterly dividend 11% to $0.36/share. The dividend is payable September 30, 2010, to shareholders of record on September 15, 2010. The ex-dividend date is September 13, 2010. HGIC is a Dividend Achiever and has raised its dividend for 24 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 4.55%.

Aflac (AFL) provides supplemental health and life insurance in the U.S. and Japan. Products are marketed at worksites and help fill gaps in primary insurance coverage. Approximately 75% of revenues comes from Japan and 25% from the U.S. August 10th the company increased its quarterly dividend 7.1% to $0.30/share. The dividend is payable on December 1, 2010, to shareholders of record at the close of business on November 17, 2010. AFL is a Dividend Aristocrat and has raised its dividend for 28 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 2.42%.

Scotts Miracle-Gro (SMG) is a leading international supplier of products for the consumer lawn and garden and professional turf and horticulture markets. August 10th the company raised its quarterly dividend by 100% to $0.25/share. The yield based on the new payout is 2.11%.

Questar Corp. (STR) is engaged in gas transportation and storage, and retail gas distribution primarily in Utah. August 10th
the company increased its quarterly dividend 7.7% to $0.14/share. The dividend is payable September 13, 2010 to shareholders of record on August 20, 2010, is a $0.01 increase from the previous quarter. The ex-dividend date is August 18, 2010. STR is a Dividend Aristocrat and has raised its dividend for 31 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 3.31%.

CAE (CAE) provides simulation and modeling technologies and integrated training services and products to the civil aviation industry and defense forces around the globe. August 11th the company raised its quarterly dividend 33.3% to $0.04/share. The dividend is payable on September 30, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 15, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 1.69%.

Connecticut Water Service (CTWS) is a provider of regulated water utility services to customers in Connecticut also conducts unregulated operations. August 12th the company increased its quarterly dividend 2.2% to $0.2325/share. The dividend is payable on September 15, 2010, for shareholders of record as of September 1, 2010, and an ex-dividend date of August 30, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 4.36%.

Textainer (TGH) engage in the purchase, management, leasing, and resale of a fleet of marine cargo containers worldwide. August 12th the company raised its quarterly dividend 4.2% to $0.25/share. The dividend is payable on September 1, 2010 to shareholders of record as of August 23, 2010. The ex-dividend date is August 19, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 3.63%.

Parker Hannifin (PH) is a global maker of industrial pumps, valves, pneumatics, and hydraulics. Its products are used in everything from jet engines to trucks and autos and utility turbines. August 12th the company increased its quarterly dividend 4% to $0.27/share. The dividend is payable September 3, 2010 to shareholders of record as of August 23, 2010. The ex-dividend date is August 19, 2010. PH is a Dividend Achiever and has raised its dividend for 54 consecutive years. The yield based on the new payout is 1.72%.

Torchmark (TMK) derives most of its earnings from its life and health insurance operations. August 12th the company raised its quarterly dividend 6.7% to $0.16/share. The dividend is payable November 1, 2010, to shareholders of record as of October 2, 2010. The ex-dividend date is September 30, 2010. The yield based on the new payout is 1.25%.

Full Disclosure: Long HGIC. See a list of all my income holdings here.

(Photo Credit)

The Dividend Freeze *

D4L — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 10:30:15 +0000

As summer turns to fall and the heat begins to moderate, winter and its freezing temperatures are just around the corner. However, some companies have been frozen in place for the last year; more specifically, their dividends have been frozen at the same rate for more than a year.

A lot of press is given to companies cutting their dividends. In this spot we normally look at dividend increases. However, this week there were none. So let’s look at some companies that have opted to neither raise nor cut their dividends, but instead freeze them at the current rate. Here are 13 select companies with 25 or more years of consecutive dividend increases that have not raised their dividends in the last 12 months:

American States Water (AWR)
This utility primarily serves water customers in California, as well as in Arizona. It also provides electric service to a small section of San Bernardino County.
Last Increase: 11/7/2007 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 54

Parker-Hannifin Corp. (PH)
This company is a global maker of industrial pumps, valves, and hydraulics. Its products are used in everything from jet engines to trucks and autos and utility turbines.
Last Increase: 8/21/2008 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 52

Illinois Tool Works (ITW)
This diversified manufacturer operates a portfolio of about 750 industrial and consumer businesses located throughout the world.
Last Increase: 9/26/2008 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 45

Tennant Company (TNC)
This company designs, manufactures, and markets cleaning solutions.
Last Increase: 2/27/2008 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 37

Mine Safety Appliances (MSA)
This company develops, manufactures and supplies products that protect people’s health and safety. Products include self-contained breathing apparatus and gas masks.
Last Increase: 5/21/2008 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 37

Helmerich & Payne Inc. (HP)
This company offers contract drilling services for oil and gas wells in the United States and internationally.
Last Increase: 8/13/2008 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 37

United Bankshares Inc. (UBSI)
This multi-bank holding company operates 114 full service offices inWest Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Ohio andWashington, DC.
Last Increase: 12/12/2007 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 35

CenturyLink Inc. (CTL)
This telecom company has operations concentrated in rural markets in Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, and Wisconsin. CTL acquired larger peer Embarq in a stock deal in July 2009.
Last Increase: 9/5/2008 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 35

Gorman-Rupp Company (GRC)
This company manufactures pumps and related equipment for water, wastewater, construction, industrial, petroleum, fire protection, military and other liquid-handling applications.
Last Increase: 2/13/2008 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 34

Chemical Financial (CHFC)
This holding company owns Chemical Bank, which provides commercial banking products and services through 129 banking offices, 141 ATMs and 2 loan production offices in Michigan.
Last Increase: 2/27/2008 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 34

Hershey Company (HSY)
Hershey is a major producer of chocolate or confectionery products.
Last Increase: 8/22/2007 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 33

Johnson Controls Inc. (JCI)
This company supplies building controls and energy management systems, automotive seating, and batteries.
Last Increase: 12/12/2007 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 33

M&T Bank Corp. (MTB)
This bank holding company for M&T Bank has offices in New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia,West Virginia, New Jersey, Delaware, andWashington, DC.
Last Increase: 8/30/2007 – Years of Consecutive Increases: 27

Needless to say, each of the above companies’ string of consecutive dividend increases is in jeopardy, and none of the stocks are on my current buy list. To the contrary, the ones I own are being closely monitored for a potential sell. Though this list might seem long, here is a much longer list of companies that have kept their streak alive.

Full Disclosure: Long CTL, ITW. See a list of all my income holdings here.

(Photo Quentin Houyoux)

Parker Hannifin Corp (PH) Stock Analysis *

D4L — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 11:30:14 +0000

This article originally appeared on The DIV-Net February 23, 2009.

Company Description: Parker-Hannifin Corp is a global maker of industrial pumps, valves and hydraulics. Its products are used in everything from jet engines to trucks and autos and utility turbines.

Fair Value: I consider four calculations of fair value, see page 2 of the linked PDF for a detailed description:

Avg. High Yield Price
20-Year DCF Price
Avg. P/E Price
Graham Number

PH earned two Stars in this section for 3.) and 4.) above. PH has paid a cash dividend to shareholders every year since 1949 and has increased its dividend payments for 52 consecutive years. It’s one year dividend growth rate exceeded its 5-year growth rate. This could indicate the growth rate is accelerating.

Dividend Analytical Data: In this section I consider five factors, see page 2 of the linked PDF for a detailed description:

Rolling 4-yr Div. > 15%
Dividend Growth Rate
Years of Div. Growth
1-Yr. > 5-Yr Growth
Payout 15% of avg.

PH earned two Stars in this section for 3.) and 4.) above. PH has paid a cash dividend to shareholders every year since 1949 and has increased its dividend payments for 52 consecutive years. Its one year dividend growth rate exceeded its 5-year growth rate. This could indicate the growth rate is accelerating.

Dividend Income vs. MMA: Why would you assume the equity risk and invest in a dividend stock if you could earn a better return in a much less risky money market account (MMA)? This section compares the earning ability of this stock with a high yield MMA. Two items are considered in this section, see page 2 of the linked PDF for a detailed description:

NPV MMA Diff.
Years to > MMA

PH earned one Star in this section for 1.) above. The NPV MMA Diff. of the $2,839 is in excess of the $2,500 minimum I look for in a stock that has increased dividends as long as PH has. If PH grows its dividend at 8.0% per year, it will take 7 years to equal the cumulative earnings from a MMA yielding an estimated 20-year average rate of 3.42%.

Other: PH is a member of the S&P 500 and a member of the Broad Dividend Achievers™ Index. PH’s industrial and aviation businesses are highly cyclical. They operate in a competitive environment and are sensitive to energy costs. With the recent economic downturn, manufacturing firms (much of PH’s customer base) are extremely cautious on spending. This is likely to continue until the global economy shows at least some signs of recovery. Risks include continued declines in global economic growth, an extended downturn in the aerospace market and the potential for production problems.

Conclusion: PH earned one Star in the Fair Value section, earned two Stars in the Dividend Analytical Data section and earned one Star in the Dividend Income vs. MMA section for a net total of four Stars. This quantitatively ranks PH as a 4 Star-Buy.

Using my D4L-PreScreen.xls model, I determined the share price would need to decrease to $37.23 before PH’s NPV MMA Differential fell to the $3,000 that I like to see. At that price the stock would yield 2.69%.

Resetting the D4L-PreScreen.xls model and solving for the dividend growth rate needed to generate the needed $3,000 NPV MMA Differential, the calculated rate is 9.9%. This dividend growth rate is above the 8.0% used in this analysis. PH has a risk rating of 1.50 which classifies it as a low risk stock.

PH is a world-class industrial company with a favorable earnings and dividend track record. It’s valuations are near all-time lows. Currently, PH’s NPV MMA Differential is not enough to justify its current risk. I would give PH consideration at prices below $37.23, but would not give strong consideration until the price hit $32.17. For additional information, including the stock’s dividend history, please refer to its data page.

Disclaimer: Material presented here is for informational purposes only. The above quantitative stock analysis, including the Star rating, is mechanically calculated and is based on historical information. The analysis assumes the stock will perform in the future as it has in the past. This is generally never true. Before buying or selling any stock you should do your own research and reach your own conclusion. See my Disclaimer for more information.

Full Disclosure: At the time of this writing, I did not have a position in PH (0.0% of my Income Portfolio).

What are your thoughts on PH?

Ten Dividend Stocks With 50+ Years of Consecutive Increases *

D4L — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 11:30:27 +0000

In every field there are winners and there are champions. The difference is subtle, but very real. A champion is driven for success and will not let anything stand in its way. Some dividend stocks can be classified as champions. Not surprisingly, I went to the Dividend Champions list to find these ten dividend stocks that stand alone with 50+ years of consecutive dividend increases. They are presented here in descending rank:

#10. Integrys Energy Group (TEG) – 51 Years

This utility holding company serves about 485,000 regulated electric and 1,674,000 regulated gas customers. The company also operates an unregulated energy supply and services business. Yesterday, TEG increased its quarterly dividend 1.5% to $0.68. The current yield is 6.81%.

#9. 3M Company (MMM) – 51 Years

This diversified global company has operations in electronics, health care, industrial, consumer and office, telecommunications, safety and security, and other markets. Last week MMM declared a 2% quarterly dividend increase to $0.54/share. The current yield is 4.13%.

#8. Emerson Electric (EMR) – 52 Years

This company primarily makes backup power equipment for telecom and Internet providers and users, climate control components, and electric motors. EMR last increased its quarterly dividend 10% in November 2008. The current yield is 4.12%.

#7. Parker-Hannifin Corp. (PH)- 52 Years

This company is a global maker of industrial pumps, valves and hydraulics. Its products are used in everything from jet engines to trucks and autos and utility turbines. PH last increased its quarterly dividend 19% in November 2008. The current yield is 2.46%.

#6. Procter & Gamble Co. (PG) – 52 Years

This leading consumer products company markets household and personal care products in more than 180 countries. PG last increased its quarterly dividend 14% in April 2008. The current yield is 3.13%

#5. Genuine Parts Co. (GPC) – 53 Years

This company is a leading wholesale distributor of automotive replacement parts, industrial parts and supplies, and office products. GPC last increased its quarterly dividend 7% in March 2008. The current yield is 4.83%

#4. Northwest Natural Gas (NWN) – 53 Years

This U.S. gas distribution utility serves Oregon and southwest Washington. NWN last increased its quarterly dividend 5% in October 2008. The current yield is 3.60%

#3. Dover Corp. (DOV) – 53 Years

This company manufactures a broad range of specialized industrial products and sophisticated manufacturing equipment. DOV last increased its quarterly dividend 25% in August 2008. The current yield is 3.37%

#2. American States Water (AWR) – 54 Years

This utility primarily serves water customers in California, as well as in Arizona. It also provides electric service to a small section of San Bernardino County. AWR has not increased its dividend since November 2007. If it remains flat during 2009, AWR will lose its spot on this list. The current yield is 2.73%

And finally, the defending national champion of dividend increases…

#1. Diebold Inc. (DBD) – 55 Years

This company develops, makes, and services self-service transaction systems, electronic & physical security systems, and software used to equip bank facilities, voting terminals. This month DBD increased its quarterly dividend 4% to $0.26/share to keeps its streak alive. The current yield is 4.20%.

Earlier this month there were 11 companies eligible for this list. Unfortantely, Masco (MAS) cashed in a half century of excellence and cut its dividend.

This list is a great starting point for additional analysis. Over the next several weeks, I plan on prescreening those on the list I had not previously looked at. If any look promising, I will provide a more comprehensive evaluation in the future.

Full Disclosure: Long TEG, PG

Dividend Stocks In the News: August 23, 2008 *

D4L — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 10:30:00 +0000

You can’t spend earnings. At first glance, this probably seems like an odd statement, possibly even incorrect. However, it is not only correct, but an important investing axiom for any type of investor. Let me explain. Earnings are that which is derived from the exchange of a product, service or other, less associated expenses. Ultimately, it is our desire that earnings are converted to something that can be spent, such as cash. Cash flow is what ultimately drives the value of any financial asset.

Below are several select companies that recently decided deliver more cash to their shareholders through increased dividends:

MCOL Int’l (ACO) Raises Qtr. Dividend 12.5% to $0.18/Share
Broadridge Financial (BR) Boosts Qtr. Dividend 17% to $0.07/Share
Administaff (ASF) Boosts Qtr. Dividend 18% to $0.13/Share
Parker Hannifin (PH) Boosts Dividend 19% to $0.25/Share
Dynex Capital (DX) Raises Qtr. Dividend 53% to $0.23/Share

After running these companies through my D4L-PreScreen.xls model, ACO with a NPV of MMA Differential of $5,514 is worth a second look. I have added it to my list for a more detailed evaluation.

Disclosure: No position in any of the aforementioned stocks.

(Photo: sanja gjenero)

Parker Hannifin Corp (PH)

D4L — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 07:00:23 +0000

Description: Parker Hannifin Corp is a member of the S&P 500 and a member of the Broad Dividend Achievers™ Index. The company is a global maker of industrial pumps, valves and hydraulics. Its products are used in everything from jet engines to trucks and autos and utility turbines.

Quantitative Stock Analysis: Updated: 2-21-2009
PH-Analysis.PDF

Share Data:

Click here for full page view.
Click the Dividends tab above to see historical dividend information.

Comments: Updated: 2-21-2009
PH’s industrial and aviation businesses are highly cyclical. They operate in a competitive environment and are sensitive to energy costs. With the recent economic downturn, manufacturing firms (much of PH’s customer base) are extremely cautious on spending. This is likely to continue until the global economy shows at least some signs of recovery. Risks include continued declines in global economic growth, an extended downturn in the aerospace market and the potential for production problems.

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