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3 Dividend Stocks Recommended for Portfolio Stability (According to 247 Wall St.)

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Saturday, December 27th 2025 at 22:07 GMT by 24/7 Wall St

Building a Solid Foundation: Three Dividend Stocks Ideal for Any Portfolio (According to 247 Wall St.)

For investors seeking consistent income and a buffer against market volatility, dividend stocks remain a cornerstone strategy. The recent article on 247WallSt.com highlights three specific companies deemed "perfect" additions to virtually any portfolio, focusing not just on current yields but also on financial health, growth potential, and the sustainability of those dividends. The piece emphasizes that these aren't get-rich-quick schemes; they’re about building a reliable income stream over time. Let’s break down each pick and the rationale behind their selection.

The Core Strategy: Quality Over Yield Chasing

Before diving into the individual stocks, 247WallSt. makes a crucial point: don't chase high yields at all costs. A seemingly attractive yield can be a red flag – a sign that the market is pricing in concerns about the company’s ability to maintain those payments. The article advocates for prioritizing companies with strong fundamentals and a history of consistent dividend payouts, even if the current yield appears slightly lower than others. A sustainable dividend is far more valuable than a fleetingly high one.

1. Verizon Communications (VZ): The Telecom Giant with a Reliable Return

Verizon (VZ) consistently tops lists for dividend-focused investors, and 247WallSt. reinforces this view. Currently boasting a yield of around 6.9% (as of late December 2023), Verizon offers a compelling combination of income and stability within the telecommunications sector. While the industry faces challenges like increased competition and evolving technologies, Verizon’s sheer size, extensive network infrastructure, and focus on 5G deployment provide a significant competitive advantage.

The article points to Verizon's robust cash flow as a key strength supporting its dividend. Telecom companies are generally characterized by predictable revenue streams, allowing them to consistently generate the funds needed to pay dividends and reinvest in their networks. While growth may not be explosive, it’s steady and reliable. The company is also actively working on expanding its business services offerings – catering to businesses needing high-speed connectivity – which provides a higher margin opportunity than consumer subscriptions alone.

However, 247WallSt. acknowledges the challenges. Debt levels remain relatively high for Verizon, although they are being managed. Moreover, competition from rivals like T-Mobile and AT&T keeps pricing pressure on services. Despite these headwinds, Verizon’s dividend payout ratio (the percentage of earnings paid out as dividends) is considered manageable, suggesting a degree of safety in its dividend policy. You can find more information about Verizon's financials and strategy on their investor relations website [ https://investors.verizon.com/ ].

2. Enbridge (ENB): The Pipeline Powerhouse Delivering Energy Infrastructure

Enbridge (ENB), a Canadian energy infrastructure company, is the second stock highlighted by 247WallSt. Its appeal lies in its essential role in transporting oil and natural gas across North America. Pipelines are critical infrastructure, and Enbridge holds a dominant position within this sector. The current yield sits around 6.8%, again offering an attractive income stream.

The article stresses that Enbridge operates primarily under long-term contracts, which provides predictable revenue streams regardless of fluctuations in commodity prices. This contractual stability is vital for supporting dividend payments. Furthermore, Enbridge's growth strategy involves expanding its renewable energy infrastructure, demonstrating a commitment to adapting to the evolving energy landscape. This diversification reduces reliance solely on fossil fuels and positions the company for long-term sustainability.

Like Verizon, Enbridge also carries debt, but 247WallSt. notes that its payout ratio is reasonable and the company has a strong track record of managing its finances. The regulatory environment surrounding pipelines can be complex and presents potential risks, as highlighted in other analyses (though not explicitly mentioned in this article). However, Enbridge’s history suggests an ability to navigate these challenges effectively. For more details on Enbridge's operations and financials, visit their investor relations page [ https://www.enbridge.com/investors/ ].

3. Altria Group (MO): The Tobacco Giant with a High Yield & Transformation Efforts

Altria (MO), the parent company of Marlboro and other tobacco brands, completes the trio. This stock is arguably the most controversial due to the nature of its core business. However, 247WallSt. argues that Altria's exceptionally high yield – currently around 8.3% - makes it a compelling option for income-focused investors willing to accept the associated ethical considerations.

The article acknowledges the declining smoking rates globally and the inherent risks associated with the tobacco industry. However, Altria has been aggressively pursuing diversification strategies, including investments in e-cigarettes (though this area has faced regulatory hurdles) and cannabis companies like Cronos Group. These efforts are aimed at offsetting declining cigarette sales and creating new revenue streams.

Altria’s exceptionally high dividend yield is supported by its strong cash flow generation, even with the challenges facing the tobacco industry. However, 247WallSt. cautions that the company's future performance hinges on the success of these diversification efforts and its ability to navigate regulatory scrutiny. The payout ratio is quite high, which some analysts view as a potential risk, although Altria has historically maintained its dividend despite challenging conditions. You can explore more about Altria’s strategic initiatives at [ https://www.altria.com/ ].

Conclusion: A Diversified Income Portfolio

The three stocks highlighted by 247WallSt. – Verizon, Enbridge, and Altria – offer distinct characteristics but share a common thread: the potential to generate consistent income for investors. While each company faces its own set of challenges, their underlying financial strength and commitment to dividend payments make them attractive additions to any portfolio seeking reliable income. The article serves as a reminder that dividend investing isn't about chasing the highest yield; it’s about identifying companies with sustainable business models and a proven track record of rewarding shareholders. As always, investors should conduct their own due diligence and consider their individual risk tolerance before making any investment decisions.