Dividend Stocks Gain Global Appeal

Dividend stocks are attracting broad investor interest as European indexes and major U.S. averages rally on improving activity, U.S.–China trade optimism and hopes for rate cuts, offering income plus potential capital appreciation. Advisers say retirees seeking more income without overly conservative allocations can consider selective high‑yield names such as Enterprise Products Partners (near 7% forward yield and 28 years of distribution growth) and REIT/MLP options to supplement withdrawals. European dividend screeners point to candidates like Koninklijke BAM Groep, Burelle, Eni and Sydbank that may be undervalued or cash‑covered but require scrutiny of payout history and valuation. U.S. screens highlight mid‑cap payers such as Peoples Bancorp (about 5.6% yield) and income-oriented names like Ethan Allen, while long‑term growers such as Air Products (43 consecutive years of increases) are noted as potential future dividend stalwarts. Some individual investors report building six‑figure annual dividend incomes by combining BDCs, MLPs, REITs and closed‑end funds, illustrating what concentrated income strategies can achieve. Overall, dividend strategies can enhance portfolio resilience in volatile markets but demand careful selection focused on payout coverage, fundamentals and valuation.