5 Best Dividend Aristocrat Stocks to Buy in 2026

3. Roper Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:ROP)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 61

On April 23, Reuters reported that Roper Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:ROP) lifted its full-year profit outlook, citing steady demand for its software as AI adoption continues to build across its customer base. The news pushed the stock up about 6% before the market opened.

The company now expects 2026 adjusted earnings to come in between $21.80 and $22.05 per share, up from its earlier range of $21.30 to $21.55. Roper serves industries like healthcare, transportation, and education. It has been seeing stronger demand as companies turn to AI to handle routine and administrative work.

In the first quarter, revenue came in at $2.10 billion, slightly ahead of the $2.07 billion analysts were expecting, based on LSEG data. Adjusted earnings reached $5.16 per share, also above the $4.98 estimate. Growth has largely been driven by acquisitions, as Roper has picked up companies such as Procare Solutions, Transact Campus, and healthcare software firm CentralReach. These deals have expanded its footprint, though they have also added to costs. The company also said its board approved an additional $3 billion in share buybacks, bringing its remaining authorization to $3.8 billion.

Roper Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:ROP) operates as a diversified technology company, focused on vertical software and technology-enabled products across niche markets. Its business is organized into three segments: Application Software, Network Software, and Technology Enabled Products.