In this article, we will take a look at some of the best high-yield dividend stocks for steady cash flow.
US equity funds witnessed renewed investor interest during the week ending October 15, supported by signals of further rate cuts from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and a strong start to the corporate earnings season. These factors helped ease worries about trade tariffs and a possible government shutdown.
According to data from LSEG, investors poured a net $1.04 billion into US equity funds, recovering nearly a quarter of the $4.45 billion was withdrawn the previous week.
In addition, US sectoral funds continued to attract inflows for the fourth consecutive week, receiving about $4.39 billion in total. Technology and financial sector funds led the way, with inflows of roughly $1.18 billion and $920 million, respectively.
Meanwhile, global funds focused on dividend-paying stocks have seen strong demand this year after two years of sluggish interest, as investors turn to income-generating assets amid economic and geopolitical uncertainty. Dividend-rich sectors such as utilities and energy have gained appeal in 2025. LSEG’s Lipper data shows that global dividend-focused exchange-traded funds brought in $23.7 billion in the first half of 2025, which was their highest inflows in three years.
Given this, we will now take a look at some of the best dividend stocks.
Our Methodology:
For this list, we selected dividend stocks with yields above 3% as of October 21, focusing on companies that offer stronger income potential than the market average. In addition to yield strength, we emphasized consistency and selected companies that have maintained stable dividend payments over time and demonstrated disciplined payout policies. This approach helps identify firms with reliable cash flows and shareholder-friendly management practices, which are key indicators of long-term dividend sustainability. The stocks are ranked according to their dividend yields.
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11. Albertsons Companies, Inc. (NYSE:ACI)
Dividend Yield as of October 21: 3.01%
Albertsons Companies, Inc. (NYSE:ACI) is one of the largest grocery retailers in the US, operating across 34 states and Washington, D.C. The brand has become a familiar name for many shoppers and remains one of the top choices for groceries in most major cities.
On October 20, Tigress Financial Partners raised its price target for Albertsons Companies, Inc. (NYSE:ACI) to $29.00, up from the previous level, while reiterating a Buy rating on the stock. The revision came after the company’s strong Q2 2026 performance, which showed steady sales growth, improved profitability, and continued momentum in its digital transformation. Albertsons, which generates around $81.37 billion in annual revenue and holds a market capitalization of $10.85 billion, reported a 2.08% year-over-year rise in revenue and maintains a 3.04% dividend yield.
Tigress pointed out that Albertsons Companies, Inc. (NYSE:ACI)’s growth is being driven by advancements in AI-powered digital sales, a growing loyalty program, and its high-margin retail media business. The firm also underscored the potential of Albertsons Media Collective, viewing it as a major long-term growth catalyst expected to boost both revenue and margins over the next few years through data monetization, omnichannel expansion, and new advertiser solutions.
In addition, the firm took note of Albertsons Companies, Inc. (NYSE:ACI)’s recent approval of a $750 million accelerated share repurchase plan, along with its continued focus on growth investments such as enhancing digital capabilities, opening new locations, and upgrading existing stores.
Albertsons Companies, Inc. (NYSE:ACI) is also known for its consistent dividend policy. The company currently offers a quarterly dividend of $0.15 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.01%, as of October 21.
10. M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB)
Dividend Yield as of October 21: 3.30%
M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB) is a regional financial institution with a solid presence across multiple states, offering a wide range of community, commercial, and retail banking services.
On October 20, DA Davidson adjusted its outlook on the stock, trimming the price target to $222.00 from $224.00 while keeping a Neutral rating. The firm expects 2026 to be a more favorable year for M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB), anticipating that the current challenges in commercial real estate could turn into growth opportunities, supporting an improvement in average earning assets.
DA Davidson also mentioned that the bank’s management foresees continued strength in net interest margin expansion and fee income growth, along with healthier credit quality reflected in fewer criticized loans.
In its commentary, the research firm noted that M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB) has expressed openness to participating in potential merger & acquisition opportunities as market activity picks up, though CFO Daryl Bible clarified that no immediate deals are in the pipeline. According to DA Davidson, this possible M&A activity could act as a short-term drag on the stock, which contributed to the firm’s decision to slightly lower its price target while maintaining a Neutral stance.
That said, M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB) is popular among income investors because of its stable dividend history and above-average dividend yield. The company has been growing its payouts for nine consecutive years and offers a quarterly dividend of $1.50 per share. The stock supports a dividend yield of 3.30%, as of October 21.
9. ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP)
Dividend Yield as of October 21: 3.61%
ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) stands among the world’s largest independent oil and gas exploration and production companies, backed by significant reserves and output.
On October 16, Wells Fargo reaffirmed its Equal Weight rating on the stock and kept its price target at $100.00, indicating limited upside potential from current levels. The decision came from a team of analysts led by Roger Read, who maintained a neutral view on the company’s shares.
Wells Fargo’s stance reflects a cautious outlook as investors closely watch global energy trends, including supply conditions and demand expectations, which continue to influence the sector’s performance.
ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) has continued to show resilience in a volatile energy market, supported by a 3.6% dividend yield and an impressive 55-year streak of uninterrupted dividend payments. The company has also increased its dividend for 10 consecutive years, reinforcing its appeal among income-focused investors. It currently offers a quarterly dividend of $0.78 per share.
