Dividend stocks can make great investments. The average dividend stock has generated a more than 12.8% total return from 1973 through the end of last year, according to data from Ned Davis Research and Hartford Funds. That has outperformed the S&P 500 's slightly less than 12.6% total return during that time frame. Meanwhile, the best results came from companies that steadily increased their dividends, with growers delivering a 13.2% total return. Further, dividend growers achieved those higher returns with less volatility than other stocks.
While that historical performance suggests dividend investors should seek growth over yield , some companies offer the best of both worlds. Three top dividend stocks that fit that bill are Brookfield Renewable (NYSE: BEP) (NYSE: BEPC) , Medical Properties Trust (NYSE: MPW) , and Crown Castle International (NYSE: CCI) . Here's why dividend investors will want to consider adding them to their portfolio this month.
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For further details see:
3 Top Dividend Stocks to Buy in September