10 Best and Safe Dividend Stocks to Buy Now

3. Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 63

Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT) is among the best dividend stocks to invest in. The company showcases solid financial health with steady revenue, strong free cash flow, and reliable earnings. Its current dividend payout ratio stands at 53.14%, well below its 10-year average, indicating stronger earnings coverage. MDT remains committed to innovation, allocating $1.85 billion to advance technologies in cardiac care, diabetes, and surgical solutions, while also expanding its footprint in emerging markets and the Asia-Pacific region.

Offering a broad portfolio that spans cardiovascular, neuroscience, medical-surgical, and diabetes care, Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT) integrates artificial intelligence and robotics to enhance its products. The company also plans to spin off its diabetes segment into a separate entity to unlock shareholder value.

With just two more dividend increases, Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT) is on track to achieve Dividend King status. The company has grown its dividends for 48 years in a row. Currently, it offers a quarterly dividend of $0.71 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.06%, as of July 27.