2 High-Yield Dividend Stocks I Can't Stop Buying

In the pursuit of high income and capital appreciation, investors often seek out high-yield dividend stocks. These companies offer attractive returns through both dividend payments and potential share price growth. Two such stocks that have caught my attention are AbbVie (NYSE:ABBV) and AvalonBay Communities (NYSE:AVB). Let's delve into the reasons why these high-yield dividend stocks are worth considering.

AbbVie, a pharmaceutical company, boasts an impressive dividend growth track record. Since its 2013 spinoff from Abbott Labs, AbbVie has increased its payout by a whopping 285%. The company's strong financial profile, with a payout ratio of around 40%, ensures the sustainability of its dividend. AbbVie's robust pipeline, including newer products like Rinvoq and Skyrizi, supports future growth and bolsters investor confidence. Additionally, AbbVie's strategic acquisitions, such as Cerevel Therapeutics and ImmunoGen, further enhance its pipeline and drive long-term growth.

AvalonBay Communities, a real estate investment trust (REIT), offers a 3.7% dividend yield. The company's financial strength allows it to expand its apartment portfolio through development and acquisitions. With a payout ratio of around 60%, AvalonBay's dividend is well-supported by its steady rental income. The company has grown its dividend at a 5% annual rate since its 1994 IPO, demonstrating a commitment to shareholder returns.

Both AbbVie and AvalonBay Communities have demonstrated consistent dividend growth and payout reliability over time. AbbVie's cumulative dividend increase of 285% since its spinoff, coupled with its annual yield of 3.8%, makes it an attractive choice for income-oriented investors. AvalonBay's 5% annual dividend growth rate and current yield of 3.7% indicate a strong commitment to maintaining and growing shareholder returns.

In a diversified investment portfolio, high-yield dividend stocks like AbbVie and AvalonBay Communities can provide a steady income stream and help mitigate risk. AbbVie's exposure to the healthcare sector, with its relatively low volatility, complements other investments in the portfolio. AvalonBay's real estate exposure acts as a hedge against inflation, further diversifying the investment mix.

When comparing these stocks' dividend yields to the S&P 500 index and the 10-year U.S. Treasury note, it becomes clear that AbbVie and AvalonBay Communities offer attractive income opportunities. In early 2024, the S&P 500 index had an average dividend yield of 1.5%, while the 10-year U.S. Treasury note yielded around 4.1%. AbbVie's 3.8% dividend yield and AvalonBay's 3.7% yield are significantly higher than these benchmarks, indicating that these stocks provide compelling income options for investors.

In conclusion, AbbVie and AvalonBay Communities are two high-yield dividend stocks that offer attractive income opportunities and potential capital appreciation. Their strong financial profiles, robust pipelines, and commitment to shareholder returns make them appealing investments for income-oriented investors seeking high-yield dividend stocks.