Three Dividend Stocks That Are Monsters in Disguise

In a world where the illustrious S&P 500 presents a rather paltry dividend yield of a mere 1.2%-almost causing a stock market enthusiast to clutch at their pearls in dismay-there remain, hidden like gems in a rather raucous scrimmage of low yields, a trio of dividend stocks strutting onto the stage with yields as staggering as 14.4%. A closer inspection reveals their rather large and extravagant personalities, not unlike a trio of well-dressed gentlemen at a soirée: AGNC Investment (AGNC), LyondellBasell Industries (LYB), and Delek Logistics Partners (DKL).

The High-Risk, High-Reward Romp

First out of the gate is none other than AGNC Investment, leading with aplomb at a jaw-dropping yield of 14.4%. Think of it as the flamboyant dandy of the group, investing in Agency residential mortgage-backed securities (MBS)-quite a mouthful, I daresay! These fine fellows in the MBS realm are safeguarded against credit calamities by the nimble hands of Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Ginnie Mae. Employing a strategy of leveraging via repurchase agreements, AGNC is poised like a cat ready to pounce.

One might say the investment strategy is akin to a delightful game of chance, where AGNC currently baskingly earns a snug return on equity hovering around the 18% to 20% mark. This delightful return more than covers their rather extravagant operating expenses and dividend payments. As long as the cash flows like the champagne at a wedding, this REIT continues to deliver its sumptuous monthly dividend, a feat it has maintained for over five years-Bravo!

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However, dear readers, before we pop the confetti, we must acknowledge the pesky shadows lurking in the corner. The rather audacious high-return strategy inherently carries a high-stakes risk. One can only hope that the market remains forgiving; otherwise, AGNC may find itself in a pickle, obliged to trim its dividends-a rather unfortunate turn of events we’ve witnessed in less fortunate times.

Navigating the Market’s Soggy Bottom

Next in our grand parade is the stalwart LyondellBasell Industries, gracing us with a more modest yet respectable dividend yield of 10.5%. This esteemed global chemicals company has exhibited a penchant for generosity, increasing its payouts for 15 consecutive years-an achievement worthy of a hearty round of applause! The impeccable CEO, Peter Vanacker, assured shareholders of their disciplined capital deployment, refreshing their spirits with news of a 2.2% raise come March.

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Nevertheless, the winds of prolonged market headwinds have tempted fate, weighing rather heavily on both earnings and stock price, thus rather inadvertently escalating the dividend yield. As it deftly manages costs and offloads non-core assets like a gentleman shedding an ill-fitting overcoat, the company diligently strategizes to enhance cash flow by over $1.1 billion by next year. A noble quest indeed!

In an effort to bolster its cash position, LyondellBasell has also arranged a rather shrewd sale of European assets, maintaining its commitment to returning cash to its ever-hopeful investors. In the second quarter, a delightful sum of over $500 million returned to investors in dividends and share buybacks. Yet, one wonders whether the company might have to sacrifice its dividend offerings should the market stubbornly choose not to improve. A delicate balance, that!

The High-Octane Delight

Last but by no means least, we have Delek Logistics Partners, with a commendable yield of 9.8%. This master limited partnership (MLP)-the solid backbone of energy midstream solutions supporting the ever-vibrant Delek US Holdings-has a rather expansive infrastructure that feels like a grand banquet serving all in attendance, including third-party patrons.

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The MLP’s dependable cash flow, underpinned by long-term contracts, affords it the delightful luxury of covering its high-yielding payouts by an easy 1.3 times, allowing a glimmer of hope for new investments. A bustling hive of activity surrounds Delek Midstream, with numerous ventures, including the pristine Libby 2 gas processing plant and acquisitions like H2O Midstream, amplifying its capabilities in a decidedly competitive market.

This steady infusion of cash from budding investments has empowered Delek to bolster its impressive payout streak to 50 quarters! A truly remarkable feat, wouldn’t you say? With the necessary financial flexibility to pursue expansion, one is left to ponder what future distribution increases may be on the horizon.

Grand Income Streams Await

So, there you have it! The triumvirate of AGNC Investment, LyondellBasell Industries, and Delek Logistics Partners boasts some truly remarkable dividend yields, thus presenting an attractive proposition for those in pursuit of hefty income streams. However, oh dear reader, it must be duly noted that these splendid payouts come wrapped in layers of risk-something to mull over thoughtfully before engaging in any matrimonial ventures involving your precious portfolios.

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2025-09-23 10:22