High-Growth Dividend Stock: ConnectOne Bancorp (CNOB) Offers 2.88% Yield and 40.11% Earnings Growth

ConnectOne Bancorp (CNOB) is a high-growth dividend stock with a 2.88% dividend yield, up 1.4% from last year. The company's current annualized dividend of $0.72 is expected to increase 40.11% in 2025, with a payout ratio of 38%. As an income investor, CNOB offers consistent cash flow and attractive returns, making it a compelling investment opportunity with a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).

The S&P 500's dividend yield has been approaching record lows, but income investors still have plenty of options to consider. High-quality dividend stocks can provide stable passive income and growth opportunities. This article explores some top dividend stocks, including ConnectOne Bancorp (CNOB), which stands out for its attractive yield and growth prospects.

ConnectOne Bancorp (CNOB)

ConnectOne Bancorp offers a dividend yield of 2.88%, up 1.4% from last year. The company's current annualized dividend of $0.72 is expected to increase by 40.11% in 2025, with a payout ratio of 38% [1]. As an income investor, CNOB provides consistent cash flow and attractive returns, making it a compelling investment opportunity with a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).

Other Top Dividend Stocks

Several other companies offer high dividend yields, backed by strong financial profiles and stable cash flows. Some notable options include:

1. Realty Income (O): With a dividend yield above 5.5%, Realty Income has a durable portfolio and a fortress financial profile. The company has increased its dividend 131 times since its IPO in 1994 [1].
2. Clearway Energy (CWEN): This clean power producer has a dividend yield just below 5.5% and generates stable cash flow to support its payout. Clearway expects to grow its cash available for dividends from $2.08 per share this year to over $2.50 per share by 2027 [1].
3. Healthpeak Properties (DOC): The healthcare REIT offers a yield over 6.5% and recently switched to a monthly dividend payment schedule. Healthpeak has a strong financial profile and a high-quality portfolio of healthcare properties [1].
4. Oneok (OKE): With a dividend yield exceeding 5%, Oneok has delivered more than a quarter-century of dividend stability and growth. The midstream giant aims to increase its high-yielding dividend by 3% to 4% annually over the coming years [1].
5. Verizon (VZ): Verizon has a dividend yield approaching 6.5% and generated $19.8 billion in free cash flow last year, easily covering its $11.2 billion in dividend payments. The company's free cash flow should grow over the long term, supporting continued dividend increases [1].

These dividend stocks offer attractive yields and strong financial profiles, making them great options for income investors seeking passive income and growth. As always, it's essential to conduct thorough research and consider your investment goals and risk tolerance before making any investment decisions.

References

[1] https://www.fool.com/investing/2025/07/12/5-top-dividend-stocks-yielding-5-or-more-to-buy-ri/