10 Best Recession-Proof Dividend Stocks to Buy

6. Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 51

Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED) is a utility company that supplies electricity and gas to the New York City area. Its steady demand and regulated pricing provide consistent cash flow, supporting a reliable and gradually growing dividend, which appeals to income-focused investors.

By concentrating on regulated utilities in an industry that changes slowly and offers recession-resistant services, Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED) has built a stable earnings base. However, challenges remain, as New York City has seen population declines in recent years and regulators have been reluctant to approve higher rates due to already high living and energy costs.

Even so, Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED) faces ongoing responsibilities to upgrade and maintain the city’s infrastructure, requiring significant investment to meet the demands of such a dense and complex urban environment.

Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED)’s dividend history also makes it an appealing option for income investors. The company has paid regular dividends to shareholders since 1885 and has raised its payouts for 51 consecutive years. Currently, it offers a quarterly dividend of $0.85 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.41%, as of September 26.