Top 10 Companies Giving the Biggest Dividends: Are you looking for stable returns in an uncertain market? The top dividend-paying companies in 2025 may hold the answer. These firms distribute a portion of their profits to shareholders regularly, offering a dependable source of income. Whether you’re a new investor or a seasoned pro, dividend stocks can add reliability and resilience to your portfolio.
With inflation, interest rates, and global economic shifts creating waves in equity markets, income investors are turning to high-yield dividend stocks as safe harbors. As of May 2025, several companies are not only offering strong dividend yields but have also demonstrated solid financial fundamentals and consistent payout histories.
Top 10 Companies Giving the Biggest Dividends
| Company | Dividend Yield | Sector | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two Harbors (TWO) | 14.85% | Real Estate (REIT) | Focuses on mortgage-backed securities, strong monthly payout history |
| AG Mortgage (MITT) | 11.11% | REIT | Invests in residential/commercial mortgage assets |
| Sunrise Realty Trust (SUNS) | 11.10% | REIT | Monthly payer, commercial real estate exposure |
| International Seaways (INSW) | 10.50% | Energy/Shipping | Operates tankers, benefits from global oil trade |
| Franklin Resources (BEN) | 6.76% | Financial Services | Long dividend history, asset management firm |
| T. Rowe Price (TROW) | 5.71% | Financial Services | Dividend aristocrat, strong balance sheet |
| Amcor Plc (AMCR) | 5.68% | Packaging | Global packaging provider, consistent payouts |
| Realty Income (O) | 5.60% | REIT | Known as “The Monthly Dividend Company” |
| Stanley Black & Decker (SWK) | 5.15% | Industrial Tools | Dividend aristocrat, manufacturing strength |
| Chevron (CVX) | 5.06% | Energy | Oil major with decades of dividend reliability |
Dividend-paying stocks remain one of the most reliable ways to generate passive income and build long-term wealth. As these top 10 companies show, it’s possible to earn generous dividends while investing in stable, well-run firms.
Whether you’re saving for retirement, looking to boost your portfolio’s resilience, or just starting out, high-dividend stocks can be a smart choice. Just remember: always do your research, diversify, and focus on quality.
What Are Dividend Stocks and Why Do They Matter?
A dividend is a portion of a company’s earnings distributed to shareholders. Unlike growth stocks, which reinvest profits into expansion, dividend stocks share their earnings directly. This provides:
- Steady income: Ideal for retirees or conservative investors.
- Compounding opportunities: Reinvested dividends grow your holdings over time.
- Lower volatility: Dividend stocks tend to be more stable during market downturns.
If you want your money working for you without constantly buying and selling stocks, dividend investing may be the way to go.
The Top 10 Dividend Stocks Right Now – In-Depth Look
1. Two Harbors Investment Corp (TWO)
- Yield: 14.85%
- Sector: REIT
- Insight: Specializes in mortgage-backed securities. Despite interest rate headwinds, TWO continues to generate cash flows that support its above-average yield.
2. AG Mortgage Investment Trust (MITT)
- Yield: 11.11%
- Sector: REIT
- Insight: MITT maintains a high dividend due to its diversified portfolio of residential and commercial mortgages. Strong risk-adjusted returns, albeit with higher volatility.
3. Sunrise Realty Trust (SUNS)
- Yield: 11.10%
- Sector: REIT
- Insight: SUNS is known for monthly payments and a focused portfolio of retail and office properties. It appeals to income-focused investors.
4. International Seaways Inc (INSW)
- Yield: 10.50%
- Sector: Energy/Shipping
- Insight: One of the leading tanker operators. Earnings benefit from global oil trade and shipping rate fluctuations.
5. Franklin Resources Inc (BEN)
- Yield: 6.76%
- Sector: Financial Services
- Insight: A reliable asset manager with a long track record of dividend payments. Focused on global investment strategies.
6. T. Rowe Price Group Inc (TROW)
- Yield: 5.71%
- Sector: Financial Services
- Insight: A Dividend Aristocrat—meaning it has increased dividends for 25+ consecutive years. Offers stability and capital appreciation.
7. Amcor Plc (AMCR)
- Yield: 5.68%
- Sector: Packaging
- Insight: Global operations in flexible packaging. Its dividends are supported by predictable revenue and defensive business model.
8. Realty Income Corp (O)
- Yield: 5.60%
- Sector: REIT
- Insight: Known as “The Monthly Dividend Company,” Realty Income owns over 12,000 properties. Tenants include Walmart and Walgreens.
9. Stanley Black & Decker Inc (SWK)
- Yield: 5.15%
- Sector: Industrial
- Insight: An established tools and security company. Over 50 years of dividend increases make it attractive to long-term investors.
10. Chevron Corp (CVX)
- Yield: 5.06%
- Sector: Energy
- Insight: Chevron remains a go-to stock for reliable dividends. Despite oil market volatility, its payout has remained stable.
Top 10 Companies Giving the Biggest Dividends Choose the Right Dividend Stock
Not all high-yield stocks are created equal. Here’s what to consider:
1. Dividend Yield vs. Dividend Safety
- A 15% yield might seem attractive but could indicate risk.
- Look at the payout ratio: the portion of earnings paid as dividends. A ratio under 70% is typically sustainable.
2. Company Fundamentals
- Strong earnings, cash flow, and low debt levels are key signs of a healthy company.
3. Industry Trends
- REITs and energy companies can offer high yields but are often sensitive to interest rate changes and commodity prices.
4. Dividend History
- A long history of stable or growing dividends is a good sign. Dividend Aristocrats are a great starting point.
Where to Buy Dividend Stocks
You can buy these stocks through any brokerage account:
- Popular platforms: Fidelity, Charles Schwab, Robinhood, Vanguard
- ETFs to consider: Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM), Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD)
These offer diversified exposure if you prefer not to buy individual stocks.
FAQs On Top 10 Companies Giving the Biggest Dividends
Q1. Can dividend stocks lose value?
A: Yes. Like any equity, stock prices fluctuate. However, dividends can cushion losses.
Q2. Are dividend stocks taxed?
A: In the U.S., qualified dividends are taxed at a lower capital gains rate. Always consult a tax advisor.
Q3. What is a good dividend yield?
A: Yields between 3% and 6% are generally considered healthy and sustainable.
Q4. Can I live off dividends?
A: Many retirees do. It requires a well-diversified portfolio and significant capital.
Q5. Are dividend stocks good in a recession?
A: Yes. High-quality dividend stocks can provide income and stability when markets are volatile.
