In this article, we will take a look at some of the best value stocks that pay dividends.
In just a few weeks, investor sentiment has shifted dramatically—from optimism after the elections to concerns about an economic slowdown, and even fears of a possible recession. As of April 21, the broader market had dropped more than 12%, and it’s now down over 16% from its February peak. Though the market is flirting with the bear market territory, analysts note that such declines tend to occur every few years, and while recoveries vary in pace, markets have historically bounced back over time. For context, the last major pullback was in 2022 (−28%), preceded by 2020 (−35%) and 2018 (−20%).
A report by Fidelity Investments pointed out that the current market correction has been both swift and sharp. Encouragingly, when compared to past declines, the downturn seems to have already reached the lower end of the typical range in terms of both depth and speed, hinting that markets might stabilize in the near future.
As stock prices decline, many investors are taking advantage of the dip, aiming to benefit from the ongoing market sell-off. Analysts, for their part, have generally favored value stocks, citing their historically strong performance. A report by Dimensional Fund Advisors supports this view, noting that value stocks—typically those trading at lower relative prices—have consistently delivered higher expected returns than growth stocks in the US market.
The report further mentioned that although there have been periods when value stocks underperformed, the core principle remains unchanged: lower relative prices tend to be linked with better long-term returns. The value premium has often surfaced suddenly and in significant amounts. For instance, in years when value outpaced growth, the average outperformance was close to 15%. Between 1927 and 2023, US value stocks have, on average, delivered an annual return that was 4.4 percentage points higher than that of growth stocks.
Dividend paying companies, in addition to value stocks, are also reliable options in the current market environment. Many reports have highlighted that investors often gravitate toward companies with high dividend yields and low valuation multiples. A report from S&P Dow Jones Indices highlights that the Dividend Aristocrats Index, which tracks the performance of companies with at least 25 consecutive years of dividend growth, offers a balanced mix of both value and growth traits. Since 1999, the index has typically included about 60.5% value-oriented stocks and 39.5% growth-oriented stocks, indicating a neutral stance between the two investment styles.
Analysts emphasized that a portfolio focused on solid dividend yields, steady dividend increases, and dependable payouts remains a timeless strategy. They added that even without depending on shifts in market valuation, the combination of income and its consistent growth could drive nominal gross returns of over 10% per year. Given this, we will take a look at some of the best value stocks that also pay dividends.
Our Methodology
To compile this list, we thoroughly reviewed reputable sources such as Forbes, Morningstar, Barron’s, and Business Insider. From their latest articles, we gathered the value stocks they collectively favored. From that selection, we picked 10 stocks with forward P/E ratios below 20, as of April 21. These stocks are ranked in descending order of their P/E ratios.
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10. L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:LHX)
Forward P/E Ratios: 20.24
L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:LHX) is an American defense technology company that operates in various segments of the defense and aerospace industries. significantly broadened its space-focused operations following the 2023 acquisition of Aerojet Rocketdyne—one of just two US firms producing engines capable of launching large payloads into space. Even before this deal, L3Harris had deep roots in the space domain, particularly through its legacy Harris division, a key provider of communication tools for the Pentagon, ranging from radios to satellite systems. With the acquisition, the company now offers not only space access but also an expanded suite of capabilities, including advanced electronics, missile warning systems, and space-based intelligence solutions.
In the fourth quarter of 2024, L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:LHX) reported $5.52 billion in revenue, marking a 4% increase year-over-year. It also set a new company record with a $34 billion backlog, reflecting strong momentum and its reputation as an innovative and dependable player in the defense industry. The company’s LHX NeXt cost-efficiency program exceeded expectations, achieving $800 million in savings for 2024 and raising its overall target to $1.2 billion. The stock has a forward P/E of 20.24, which makes it one of the best value stocks that pay dividends.
Financially, L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:LHX) remained solid, ending FY24 with $2.6 billion in operating cash flow and $2.3 billion in free cash flow. The company currently offers a quarterly dividend of $1.20 per share, having raised it by 3.4% in February this year. This was its 23rd consecutive year of dividend growth. The stock has a dividend yield of 2.24%, as of April 21.
9. Nordson Corporation (NASDAQ:NDSN)
Forward P/E Ratios: 18.25
Nordson Corporation (NASDAQ:NDSN) is an Ohio-based multinational company that designs and produces dispensing equipment used for applying adhesives, sealants, coatings, and other materials. The company operates under a business model that thrives on strategic acquisitions and collaborations. In May, the company revealed plans to acquire Atrion in an all-cash deal valued at around $800 million, offering $460 per share. This move is intended to expand Nordson’s presence in the medical field by tapping into new markets and treatment areas.
In fiscal Q1 2025, Nordson Corporation (NASDAQ:NDSN) posted mixed financial results. Revenue for the quarter came in at $615.4 million, reflecting a 2.8% decrease from the same period last year. Although acquisitions added 8% to sales, this gain was outweighed by a 9% decline in organic sales and a 2% headwind from unfavorable currency exchange rates. Net income dropped to $95 million, or $1.65 per diluted share, down from $110 million, or $1.90 per diluted share, a year earlier. The stock has a P/E ratio of 18.25, which makes NDSN one of the best value stocks to invest in.
By quarter’s end, Nordson Corporation (NASDAQ:NDSN) held $130.4 million in cash and cash equivalents, an increase from $116 million the previous year. The company generated $160 million in operating cash flow and reported $137.7 million in free cash flow. This strong financial footing has enabled Nordson to raise its dividend for 61 consecutive years. Currently, the company offers a quarterly dividend of $0.78 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.76%, as of April 21.
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