14 Best Dividend Aristocrats to Invest in Heading into 2026

9. Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE:CHD)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 44

Upside Potential as of December 22: 16.9%

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE:CHD) is among the best dividend aristocrat stocks to invest in.

On December 17, Citi moved Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE:CHD) to Neutral from Sell and raised its price target to $87 from $85. The firm said its Sell view had largely run its course. Citi now sees room for sales growth to improve in 2026 as year-over-year comparisons become easier.

Earlier in the month, on December 9, Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE:CHD) concluded a strategic review of its vitamins, minerals, and supplements business. The company announced a definitive agreement to sell the VitaFusion and L’il Critters brands to Piping Rock Health Products. The deal includes the two brands, related trademarks and licenses, and manufacturing and distribution facilities in Vancouver and Ridgefield, Washington.

Closing is expected before year-end, subject to standard conditions. The VMS brands account for less than 5% of the expected 2025 net sales. Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE:CHD) expects a one-time, after-tax charge of $40 million to $45 million in the fourth quarter of 2025. That figure reflects net proceeds, a non-cash impairment, and transition and transaction costs. Perella Weinberg served as financial advisor to Church & Dwight, with Proskauer Rose acting as legal counsel. Piping Rock was advised by Freshfields.

Founded in 1846, Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE:CHD) is the leading US producer of sodium bicarbonate, widely known as baking soda. The company also sells a broad mix of personal care, household, and specialty products under well-known brand names.