Dividend stocks provide stability and reliable returns, making them ideal for long-term investment. Dividends have historically accounted for 40% of total stock market returns over 90 years. Bank of America analysts highlight seven attractively valued dividend stocks poised for growth:

1. JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM)

  • Sector: Financials
  • Yield: 2.0%
  • Why Buy: JPMorgan’s dominant position in U.S. banking and its acquisition of First Republic Bank strengthen its growth prospects. Analysts expect the bank to benefit from pro-business policies under the Trump administration.
  • Price Target: $260 (Dec. 6 closing: $247.36)

2. Home Depot Inc. (HD)

  • Sector: Consumer Discretionary
  • Yield: 2.1%
  • Why Buy: Home Depot continues to outperform competitors with strategic excellence. Lower interest rates may drive demand for big-ticket renovation projects, supporting long-term growth.
  • Price Target: $450 (Dec. 6 closing: $431.37)

3. Procter & Gamble Co. (PG)

  • Sector: Consumer Staples
  • Yield: 2.3%
  • Why Buy: With leading brands like Tide and Pampers, P&G’s innovative strategies and geographic expansion offer substantial growth opportunities in North America and Europe.
  • Price Target: $185 (Dec. 6 closing: $173.82)

4. Chevron Corp. (CVX)

  • Sector: Energy
  • Yield: 4.2%
  • Why Buy: Chevron’s Tengizchevroil project is set to boost production in 2025, while cost synergies from recent acquisitions and expense reductions should improve margins.
  • Price Target: $168 (Dec. 6 closing: $155.24)

5. Coca-Cola Co. (KO)

  • Sector: Consumer Staples
  • Yield: 3.1%
  • Why Buy: Coca-Cola’s strong pricing power, product diversity, and growth in high-performing brands like Fairlife make it a defensive yet growth-oriented choice.
  • Price Target: $77 (Dec. 6 closing: $62.53)

6. Merck & Co. Inc. (MRK)

  • Sector: Health Care
  • Yield: 3.1%
  • Why Buy: Merck’s Keytruda and Gardasil lead its growth, while a promising drug pipeline ensures long-term potential. Regulatory uncertainties remain a watchpoint but shouldn’t deter long-term investors.
  • Price Target: $120 (Dec. 6 closing: $103.09)

7. Cisco Systems Inc. (CSCO)

  • Sector: Technology
  • Yield: 2.6%
  • Why Buy: Cisco’s focus on AI-driven networking, recurring subscription revenue, and synergies from its Splunk acquisition position it well for sustained growth in 2025.
  • Price Target: $72 (Dec. 6 closing: $59.89)

These dividend stocks offer reliable yields and long-term growth opportunities across diverse sectors, making them strong candidates for building a stable, income-generating portfolio.

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Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.

This story was originally featured on USNews.