3 Blue-Chip Dividend Stocks to Watch: Affordable Opportunities for All Investors

Long-term investing often means identifying companies that can overcome challenges rather than those headed for decline. One useful indicator is a company's track record of paying and increasing dividends. Consistent dividend growth often signals a resilient business model and strong risk management, even during tough economic times.

For those interested in investing in stocks with dividends, the following three blue-chip stocks offer both stability and attractive returns. Even better, you can invest in all three for around $150, making them appealing for investment stocks for beginners or those looking to diversify their stock portfolio without a large upfront investment.

1. Realty Income: Monthly Dividends and Reliable Income

Realty Income is a leading real estate investment trust (REIT), renowned for its monthly dividend payments. The company specializes in acquiring and leasing retail and consumer-facing properties through net leases. By law, REITs such as Realty Income must distribute at least 90% of their earnings as dividends, making them a staple for dividend-focused investors.

Rising interest rates have raised Realty Income's borrowing costs, temporarily reducing its profitability. However, the outlook appears positive. Management has increased its 2025 earnings guidance, and the stock currently trades at under 14 times funds from operations (FFO)—a low valuation for such a well-established REIT. Realty Income has increased its dividend for 32 years in a row, and the stock now offers a strong 5.5% yield, making it a solid addition to any stock portfolio.

2. Nike: Resilient Leader in Sports Apparel

Nike, the globally recognized sportswear company, has faced challenges including competition and strategic missteps since its 2021 peak. A recent leadership reshuffle, highlighted by the introduction of a new CEO focused on innovation and rebuilding wholesaler relationships, signals a potential turnaround.

Despite the recent difficulties, Nike boasts an impressive 23-year streak of dividend increases and has a robust balance sheet with $8.5 billion in cash. The current pessimism surrounding the stock has brought its valuation near multi-year lows, presenting a potential opportunity for long-term investors seeking quality stocks and investing exposure.

3. Brown-Forman: Premium Spirits and Consistent Dividends

Best known for its flagship Jack Daniel's whiskey, Brown-Forman is a key player in the spirits industry. Though the stock has seen its price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio fall due to recent revenue declines and a shift in American alcohol consumption trends, it continues to target the premium spirits segment, which has shown resilience.

Brown-Forman's focus on higher-end products positions it to weather industry headwinds. Importantly, the company has raised its dividend for 40 consecutive years, and its strong profits provide a solid foundation for ongoing dividend payments. For those interested in managing investment risk while adding dividend-paying stocks to their portfolio, Brown-Forman's current valuation may prove highly attractive over time.

Conclusion

Finding strong investment stocks for beginners or seasoned investors often starts by looking at companies with a proven commitment to dividends. Realty Income, Nike, and Brown-Forman each demonstrate resilience and commitment to rewarding shareholders, making them worth considering for any stock portfolio.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.