The figures from S&P Dow Jones Indices showed a truly staggering number of dividend stocks making increases to their distributions. Fully 1,078 stocks upped their dividends last quarter, toppling a record that had stood for 35 years and representing a 14% increase from last year's first quarter. By contrast, only 102 companies cut or suspended their dividends, which was 27% fewer than in the year-ago quarter.

Investors should continue to look to dividend stocks as a smart way to invest. With their combination of income and growth potential, dividend stocks look especially appealing as investors prepare for more volatile times that could come in the near future. The smartest investors know that dividend stocks simply crush their non-dividend paying counterparts over the long term. That’s beyond dispute. They also know that a well-constructed dividend portfolio creates wealth steadily, while still allowing you to sleep like a baby.

Source: Motley Fool

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