The best and worst Dividend Aristocrats in 2024 (full list!)

Insurer Brown & Brown #1 | Albemarle biggest loser

Dividend Aristocrats are a group of companies in the S&P 500 that have consistently increased their dividends for at least 25 consecutive years. These companies are often seen as reliable investments, especially for those seeking regular income through dividends. Here, we take a look at the best and worst performing Dividend Aristocrats in 2024, based on their year-to-date (YTD) total returns as of June 18, 2024.

Best Performing Dividend Aristocrats

1. Brown & Brown Inc (BRO)

   • YTD Total Return: 29.8%

   • Yield: 0.6%

   • Description: Brown & Brown Inc, an insurance brokerage firm, leads the pack with an impressive 29.8% YTD return. The company specializes in providing a range of insurance products and services, contributing to its strong performance.

   

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2. Walmart Inc (WMT)

   • YTD Total Return: 29.2%

   • Yield: 1.2%

   • Description: Retail giant Walmart has seen a robust 29.2% return. Known for its extensive network of stores and e-commerce presence, Walmart continues to be a dominant player in the retail sector.

3. Ecolab Inc (ECL)

   • YTD Total Return: 22.9%

   • Yield: 0.9%

   • Description: Ecolab, a global provider of water, hygiene, and energy technologies, has achieved a 22.9% return. The company's solutions help ensure clean water, safe food, and healthy environments.

4. Colgate-Palmolive Co (CL)

   • YTD Total Return: 21.8%

   • Yield: 2.1%

   • Description: Colgate-Palmolive, a consumer products company, known for its oral care products, has posted a 21.8% return. Its strong brand and global reach contribute to its consistent performance.

5. Nextera Energy Inc (NEE)

   • YTD Total Return: 21.0%

   • Yield: 2.8%

   • Description: Nextera Energy, a clean energy company, has seen a 21.0% return. It focuses on renewable energy projects and has been a leader in the transition to clean energy.

6. Cintas Corp (CTAS)

   • YTD Total Return: 17.9%

   • Yield: 0.8%

   • Description: Cintas, which provides uniform rental and facility services, has delivered a 17.9% return. The company's services are essential for businesses across various industries.

7. Kimberly-Clark Corp (KMB)

   • YTD Total Return: 17.8%

   • Yield: 3.5%

   • Description: Kimberly-Clark, known for its personal care products like tissues and diapers, has achieved a 17.8% return. The company's products are staples in households worldwide.

8. Dover Corp (DOV)

   • YTD Total Return: 17.2%

   • Yield: 1.1%

   • Description: Dover, a diversified global manufacturer, has posted a 17.2% return. The company serves a variety of industries, including energy, engineering, and printing.

9. Church & Dwight Co Inc (CHD)

   • YTD Total Return: 16.2%

   • Yield: 1.0%

   • Description: Church & Dwight, known for its household products like baking soda and laundry detergent, has delivered a 16.2% return. The company's diverse product portfolio supports its steady performance.

10. Chubb Ltd (CB)

    • YTD Total Return: 16.2%

    • Yield: 1.4%

    • Description: Chubb, a leading global insurance company, also posted a 16.2% return. It provides a wide range of insurance products, including property, casualty, and accident insurance.

Worst Performing Dividend Aristocrats

1. Albemarle Corp (ALB)

   • YTD Total Return: -29.8%

   • Yield: 1.6%

   • Description: Albemarle, a global specialty chemicals company, has experienced a significant decline of 29.8%. The company's performance has been impacted by challenges in the lithium market.

     

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2. Franklin Resources Inc (BEN)

   • YTD Total Return: -24.0%

   • Yield: 5.6%

   • Description: Franklin Resources, an investment management company, has seen a 24.0% decline. Market volatility and changing investor preferences have affected its returns.

3. Brown-Forman Corp (BFb)

   • YTD Total Return: -21.9%

   • Yield: 2.0%

   • Description: Brown-Forman, known for its alcoholic beverages, including Jack Daniel's, has posted a 21.9% decline. The company faces challenges from changing consumer preferences and economic conditions.

4. Archer-Daniels-Midland Co (ADM)

   • YTD Total Return: -15.2%

   • Yield: 3.3%

   • Description: ADM, a global food processing and commodities trading corporation, has seen a 15.2% decline. The company is impacted by fluctuating commodity prices and supply chain issues.

5. McDonald's Corp (MCD)

   • YTD Total Return: -13.5%

   • Yield: 2.6%

   • Description: Fast-food giant McDonald's has experienced a 13.5% decline. The company faces increased competition and changing consumer habits in the fast-food industry.

6. PPG Industries Inc (PPG)

   • YTD Total Return: -13.4%

   • Yield: 2.0%

   • Description: PPG Industries, a supplier of paints and coatings, has posted a 13.4% decline. The company is dealing with higher raw material costs and supply chain disruptions.

7. Stanley Black & Decker Inc (SWK)

   • YTD Total Return: -12.4%

   • Yield: 3.8%

   • Description: Stanley Black & Decker, known for its tools and storage products, has seen a 12.4% decline. The company faces challenges from inflation and changing consumer demand.

8. Nordson Corp (NDSN)

   • YTD Total Return: -11.7%

   • Yield: 1.2%

   • Description: Nordson, a manufacturer of dispensing equipment, has experienced an 11.7% decline. The company is affected by economic cycles and industrial demand fluctuations.

9. J M Smucker Co (SJM)

   • YTD Total Return: -9.7%

   • Yield: 3.8%

   • Description: J M Smucker, known for its food products like jams and jellies, has posted a 9.7% decline. The company faces challenges from rising input costs and competitive pressures.

10. Nucor Corp (NUE)

    • YTD Total Return: -9.3%

    • Yield: 1.4%

    • Description: Nucor, a steel production company, has seen a 9.3% decline. The company is impacted by fluctuations in steel prices and global economic conditions.

Conclusion

The performance of Dividend Aristocrats in 2024 highlights the diversity and resilience of these companies. While some have thrived despite economic challenges, others have faced significant hurdles. Investors often look to Dividend Aristocrats for their stability and consistent dividend growth, making them a key part of many investment portfolios.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Investors should conduct their own research or consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.