Dividend Kings and Aristocrats List: 32 Biggest Stocks

In this article, we will take a look at the Dividend Kings and Aristocrats List: 32 Biggest Stocks.

CNBC reported on March 25 that investors looking for protection during market volatility often turn to dividend-paying stocks. These days, they are also moving into small- and mid-cap dividend names.

The markets have been churning all year. This picked up after the start of the Iran war on February 28 and the rally in crude oil prices. On March 25, stocks moved higher after reports said the United States sent Iran a plan to end the conflict. Still, the S&P 500 is down about 4% year to date. The small-cap focused Russell 2000 is slightly positive in 2026.

Bank of America expects small- and mid-cap stocks to outperform mega caps this year, helped by faster earnings growth. The firm has been bullish on small caps since last summer. Higher oil prices are also a modest positive for earnings, according to Jill Carey Hall, head of US small- and mid-cap strategy at Bank of America.

Dividend stocks are also outperforming the broader market this year as investors look for steady income to ride through uneven markets. These companies are generally seen as defensive and tend to be less volatile than the broader market. Combining dividends with small- and mid-cap exposure could be a useful approach for investors focusing on quality names. Carey Hall, in her note, stated the following:

“Within small caps, high quality stocks and those returning cash to shareholders have historically been the best performing styles amid a rising VIX.”

Given this, we will take a look at some of the best dividend aristocrat stocks.

Photo by Viacheslav Bublyk on Unsplash

Our Methodology:

For this list, we screened for Dividend Kings and Aristocrats, companies that have raised their payouts for 50 and 25 consecutive years, respectively. From that group, we picked companies with market caps above $2 billion and limited our final selection to companies that have recently reported noteworthy developments likely to impact investor sentiment.

Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 498.7% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 303 percentage points (see more details here).

32. MGE Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:MGEE)

Market Cap as of March 24: $2.80 Billion

On March 23, Morgan Stanley raised its price recommendation on MGE Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:MGEE) to $79 from $77. It reiterated an Underweight rating on the shares. The analyst said the firm is updating price targets across regulated and diversified utilities and IPPs in North America under its coverage. In February, utilities outperformed the S&P’s return. The firm also noted that recent conversations in the sector were broadly constructive. Companies pointed to growth opportunities, showed optimism around load growth, and talked about signing deals with data centers.

Madison Gas and Electric, the subsidiary of MGEE, is working toward a more sustainable future for its investors, employees, customers, and the wider community. The company is aiming for net-zero carbon electricity by 2050. It has already been moving in that direction. Earlier, it set a goal to cut carbon emissions by at least 80% by 2050 compared to 2005 levels.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s October 2018 Special Report on limiting global warming to 1.5°C focuses on reducing emissions from electricity generation, improving energy efficiency, and shifting other energy uses, including transportation, toward electrification. These are the same areas MGE is focusing on as it works toward its net-zero target.

MGE Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:MGEE) operates as a public utility holding company. Its business includes regulated electric and gas utilities, nonregulated energy operations, transmission investments, and other related activities.

31. H.B. Fuller Company (NYSE:FUL)

Market Cap as of March 24: $2.9 Billion

On March 19, H.B. Fuller Company (NYSE:FUL) announced that it would increase its prices across all of its product lines worldwide. The company pointed to the need to keep supply reliable and service consistent as the global materials environment shifts. Lately, the petrochemical sector has been under strain. Supplies have tightened, and input costs have moved higher across the chain.

H.B. Fuller said it has taken steps to deal with these pressures and keep deliveries steady. It also stressed that maintaining product quality and service levels remains a priority. Starting April 1, 2026, the company will implement a minimum 10% price increase across all product lines globally. Some categories and regions will face higher increases. The company said the pricing move supports continuity of supply and service, while it continues to invest in capabilities tied to customer innovation, long-term growth, and operational stability.

H.B. Fuller Company (NYSE:FUL) operates as a pure-play adhesives business. It formulates, manufactures, and markets adhesives, sealants, and other specialty chemical products.

30. The Marzetti Company (NASDAQ:MZTI)

Market Cap as of March 24: $3.8 Billion

On March 16, DA Davidson lowered its price recommendation on The Marzetti Company (NASDAQ:MZTI) to $168 from $184. It reiterated a Neutral rating on the shares. The analyst said the firm sees potential value creation from Bachan’s and believes the company has levers to improve margins. At the same time, the firm noted some pressure points. The consumer remains cautious, food consumption is slowing, and Marzetti’s share growth has started to ease.

Earlier in February, the company said it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Bachan’s, Inc. Bachan’s is a fast-growing Japanese Barbecue Sauce brand known for its authentic, clean-label products. The company said the deal strengthens its position in the sauce category and opens up more growth opportunities through its retail and foodservice network, supply chain capabilities, and marketing and culinary expertise. Bachan’s generated about $87 million in net sales for the twelve months ended December 31, 2025.

The purchase price is $400 million, subject to customary adjustments. The company plans to fund the deal using cash on hand, along with additional financing. The transaction is expected to close before the fiscal year ends on June 30, 2026, pending regulatory approvals and other standard conditions.

The Marzetti Company (NASDAQ:MZTI), formerly Lancaster Colony Corporation, produces and sells specialty food products. Its portfolio includes brands such as Marzetti, New York Bakery, and Sister Schubert’s, along with Olive Garden dressings, Chick-fil-A sauces and dressings, Buffalo Wild Wings sauces, Arby’s sauces, Subway sauces, Texas Roadhouse steak sauces, and frozen rolls.

29. Federal Realty Investment Trust (NYSE:FRT)

Market Cap as of March 24: $8.9 Billion

On March 24, Scotiabank analyst Nicholas Yulico raised the firm’s price recommendation on Federal Realty Investment Trust (NYSE:FRT) to $118 from $113. It reiterated an Outperform rating on the shares. The analyst said the firm is updating its price targets for U.S. retail REITs under coverage. Management teams, in his view, seem to be building in deliberate conservatism into their initial 2026 same-store net operating income guidance. That could set up room for outperformance as the year plays out.

A day earlier, on March 23, Truist also adjusted its view. The firm lifted its price target on Federal Realty to $112 from $111 and maintained a Hold rating. The update came as part of a broader research note on REITs.The analyst said the firm is revising its models based on fourth-quarter results, revenue growth trends, and updated expense assumptions.

Federal Realty Investment Trust (NYSE:FRT) operates as an equity REIT. The company focuses on owning, operating, and redeveloping retail-focused properties. Its portfolio is largely concentrated in major coastal markets, along with select underserved areas that show strong economic and demographic fundamentals.

28. National Fuel Gas Company (NYSE:NFG)

Market Cap as of March 24: $9.01 Billion

On March 20, JPMorgan raised its price recommendation on National Fuel Gas Company (NYSE:NFG) to $97 from $95 and kept a Neutral rating on the shares. The firm said oil market fundamentals “shifted on a dime” following the Middle East conflict. The analyst noted that the war has reduced global productive capacity and “quickly evaporated the risk” of a supply glut in 2026 after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. JPMorgan added that it would not be surprised to see a $5–$10 per barrel geopolitical risk premium reflected in the long end of the oil price curve.

A CNBC report highlighted that National Fuel’s unregulated upstream exploration and production segment generates a large share of its cash flow. It accounts for about 68% of the company’s EBITDA. The company operates natural gas assets across the Appalachian Basin, one of North America’s most productive gas regions. This position gives National Fuel exposure to rising demand for natural gas, including from data centers and liquefied natural gas exports.

At the same time, its regulated business provides more stability. For income-focused investors, the company’s track record stands out. National Fuel has increased its dividend for 55 straight years and has paid dividends for 123 consecutive years.

National Fuel Gas Company (NYSE:NFG) operates as a diversified energy business with a mix of natural gas assets. Its operations span production, gathering, transportation, storage, and distribution. The company is organized into Exploration and Production, Pipeline and Storage, Gathering, and Utility segments.

27. The J. M. Smucker Company (NYSE:SJM)

Market Cap as of March 24: $10.09 Billion

On March 25, TD Cowen lowered its price recommendation on The J. M. Smucker Company (NYSE:SJM) to $103 from $113. It reiterated a Hold rating on the shares. The firm said it cut earnings estimates and price targets across several large-cap food companies. It pointed to higher input costs tied to the Iran War and limited pricing power. The analyst also noted that food companies are now focusing more on reducing debt after margins came under pressure in 2025.

Earlier, on March 11, Bernstein took a different view. The firm upgraded Smucker to Outperform from Market Perform. The firm also raised its price target on the stock to $145 from $121. The analyst pointed to easing green coffee costs and the involvement of activist investor Elliott Management. Bernstein said Elliott could push for portfolio changes and improvements in productivity at Smucker. The firm also noted that green coffee prices have fallen from more than $4 per pound in 2025 to below $3.

The J. M. Smucker Company (NYSE:SJM) produces and markets branded food and beverage products globally. Its portfolio includes a range of brands sold mainly through retail channels across North America.

26. RPM International Inc. (NYSE:RPM)

Market Cap as of March 24: $12.34 Billion

On March 23, Mizuho analyst John Roberts lowered the firm’s price recommendation on RPM International Inc. (NYSE:RPM) to $111 from $120. It maintained an Outperform rating on the shares.

Earlier, on March 4, Baird analyst Ghansham Panjabi upgraded RPM to Outperform from Neutral. The firm reiterated the price target unchanged at $125. The analyst said the company is positioned to deliver stronger earnings growth in fiscal 2027 and beyond. The firm also pointed to “outsized” operating leverage as macro conditions improve through 2026.

During the fiscal Q2 2026 earnings call, CFO Russell Gordon said market conditions are expected to stay slow. He cited weak DIY demand and longer timelines for construction projects. Looking ahead, the company expects consolidated sales to grow in the mid-single-digit range in the third quarter. The Consumer segment is expected to lead growth, supported by recent acquisitions. Adjusted EBIT is projected to increase in the mid- to high single-digit range in the third quarter.

For the fourth quarter, the company sees sales growing at a mid-single-digit pace, with delayed projects starting to move forward toward the end of the year. Gordon added that adjusted EBIT in the fourth quarter is expected to rise in the low- to high-single-digit range, with volume growth remaining the key factor.

RPM International Inc. (NYSE:RPM) operates through subsidiaries focused on coatings, sealants, building materials, and related services. The company reports its business across three segments: Construction Products Group, Performance Coatings Group, and Consumer.

25. McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC)

Market Cap as of March 24: $13.98 Billion

On March 20, Barclays kept an Equal Weight rating on McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC). It maintained a $67 price target on the stock. The update followed the company’s confirmation that it is in discussions with Unilever (UL) about a potential strategic transaction involving Unilever’s Foods business. The firm said there is “significant strategic merit and likely compelling earnings accretion for McCormick from a potential transaction.” At the same time, the analyst noted that the deal value would likely be “hefty” and could carry execution risk.

Barclays also pointed out that majority ownership of the combined entity by Unilever shareholders “could dampen initial investor enthusiasm.” McCormick shares were up 31c to $54.36 in premarket trading that day.

McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC) produces, markets, and distributes herbs, spices, seasonings, condiments, and flavors. Its products are sold across the food and beverage industry, including retailers, food manufacturers, and foodservice businesses. The company operates through two segments: consumer and flavor solutions.

24. West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (NYSE:WST)

Market Cap as of March 24: $17.68 Billion

On March 9, Reuters reported that West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (NYSE:WST)’s chief executive, Eric Green, plans to retire once the company names his successor, ending an 11-year tenure in the role. The Pennsylvania-based company expects the transition to take place in the second half of 2026. It has brought in an executive search firm to manage the process.

“After serving 11 years as the Company’s 6th CEO over the past century, it is time for someone else to take over the leadership of West,” Green said in a statement. Green stepped into the CEO role in 2015 and became board chair in 2022. He said the move will give him time to pursue board and advisory positions going forward. During his time leading the company, West more than doubled its sales and delivered a total shareholder return of roughly 350%, according to lead independent director Robert Friel.

The company manufactures components and devices used to deliver injectable drugs, including treatments for diabetes and obesity. Last month, West said demand for GLP-1 therapies is expected to keep growing in 2026, though not at the same pace seen in 2025.

West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (NYSE:WST) operates as a global manufacturer focused on designing and producing integrated containment and delivery systems for injectable drugs and healthcare products.

23. Albemarle Corporation (NYSE:ALB)

Market Cap as of March 24: $20.8 Billion

On March 6, Truist analyst Peter Osterland reiterated a Buy rating on Albemarle Corporation (NYSE:ALB). The firm maintained a $210 price target following the company’s non-deal roadshow. The analyst said recent momentum in lithium pricing looks sustainable. Demand, especially from EVs and grid storage, is expected to grow faster than supply in the near to medium term. Truist also noted that the company is likely to maintain discipline around costs and capital spending in the near term.

Later, on March 25, Albemarle said it had begun the environmental review process in Chile for its first Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) project. The company said the project is designed to nearly double lithium recovery while reducing brine extraction. It added that full development could require about $3.1 billion in investment and is expected to operate through 2045.

Albemarle said the project is intended to improve efficiency and sustainability at the Salar de Atacama. Plans include a DLE plant with up to six processing trains, along with supporting infrastructure such as a power transmission line. The company also indicated that brine extraction could fall significantly, from 442 liters per second to as low as 142 liters per second at full capacity. At the same time, it acknowledged concerns in the region. Local communities have raised questions about the impact of mining on limited water resources.

Albemarle Corporation (NYSE:ALB) focuses on turning essential resources into key materials used in mobility, energy, connectivity, and health.

22. PPG Industries, Inc. (NYSE:PPG)

Market Cap as of March 24: $23.14 Billion

On March 23, Mizuho lowered its price recommendation on PPG Industries, Inc. (NYSE:PPG) to $115 from $140. It reiterated an Outperform rating on the shares.

A day later, on March 24, the company introduced PPG InsightsNav, an analytics platform built to help shipowners and operators better manage seastock coatings data. Marine operators often work with scattered or limited historical data. That makes long-term planning and cost control harder than it should be.

PPG said the new platform organizes this information into a standardized, easy-to-use format. The data can also be updated as new inputs come in, which keeps the system relevant over time. The tool highlights areas where operators can improve purchasing decisions. That includes choosing ports more effectively and consolidating orders in a more strategic way. These adjustments, the company said, can lead to meaningful cost savings.

PPG Industries, Inc. (NYSE:PPG) manufactures and distributes paints, coatings, and specialty products. Its business is organized into Global Architectural Coatings, Performance Coatings, and Industrial Coatings segments.

21. Eversource Energy (NYSE:ES)

Market Cap as of March 24: $25.3 Billion

On March 23, BMO Capital lowered its price recommendation on Eversource Energy (NYSE:ES) to $75 from $79. It reiterated a Market Perform rating on the shares. The firm pointed to a recent decision by FERC that addressed long-standing issues around the base ROE for the New England Transmission Owners. The order found that prior rates were unjust and unreasonable and set a new base ROE at 9.57%, the analyst said.

During its Q4 2025 earnings call, Eversource projected 2026 earnings per share in the range of $4.80 to $4.95. Management indicated that growth would be more moderate. Timing around regulatory decisions, along with pressure tied to Aquarion and storm cost recovery, is expected to weigh on results. CFO John Moreira said growth in 2026 will be limited largely due to these regulatory timing factors.

Looking ahead, the company expects earnings growth to pick up in 2027 and 2028. That outlook is tied to improved regulatory outcomes, recovery of storm-related costs, and adjustments in distribution rates. Eversource outlined a five-year EPS growth target of 5% to 7%, based on 2025 non-GAAP recurring EPS of $4.76. The company is aiming to reach the upper end of that range by 2028. It also highlighted a $26.5 billion capital plan focused on electric and natural gas distribution, transmission, and technology investments. The plan does not include Aquarion Water, which would add another $1.3 billion if included.

Eversource Energy (NYSE:ES) operates as a utility holding company focused on energy delivery through its subsidiaries. Its business is organized into Electric Distribution, Electric Transmission, Natural Gas Distribution, and Water Distribution segments.

20. Atmos Energy Corporation (NYSE:ATO)

Market Cap as of March 24: $30.03 Billion

On March 23, Morgan Stanley raised its price recommendation on Atmos Energy Corporation (NYSE:ATO) to $197 from $192. It reiterated an Equal Weight rating on the shares. The analyst said the firm is updating price targets across regulated and diversified utilities and IPPs in North America under its coverage. In February, utilities outperformed the S&P’s return. The firm also noted that recent discussions in the sector have been broadly constructive. Companies pointed to growth opportunities, stronger load growth, and new deals tied to data centers.

Management reaffirmed its fiscal 2026 earnings per share guidance in the range of $8.15 to $8.35. It also confirmed that the capital spending plan will remain at $4.2 billion. CEO John Akers said the company plans to grow its dividend in line with its targeted annual EPS growth of 6% to 8%.

CFO Christopher Forsythe noted that the $35 million quarterly benefit linked to Texas House Bill 4384 should not be treated as recurring. He said the actual impact will depend on timing, including spending levels, project completions, and overall operational activity.

Atmos Energy Corporation (NYSE:ATO) operates as a natural gas-only distributor. The company serves more than 3.3 million customers across over 1,400 communities in eight states, primarily in the southern United States.

19. Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (NYSE:ADM)

Market Cap as of March 24: $34.3 Billion

On March 24, JPMorgan raised its price recommendation on Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (NYSE:ADM) to $65 from $61. It maintained an Underweight rating on the shares. The firm said it increased estimates and targets across the agricultural products group, pointing to an improving industry backdrop. The analyst noted that the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed renewable volume obligations for 2026 would “mandate a significant step up” in biofuels requirements and are expected to take effect on January 1. JPMorgan added that stronger demand, along with recent geopolitical disruptions, is pushing margins higher for biofuels producers and oilseed processors.

During its Q4 2025 earnings call, Archer Daniels Midland said it expects adjusted EPS for 2026 to come in between $3.60 and $4.25. Chairman and CEO Juan Luciano shared the company’s outlook, while CFO Monish Patolawala said earlier policy clarity could open up more opportunities in what he described as a more constructive operating environment. He also said the company plans to stay disciplined on capital allocation, with a focus on generating strong cash flow and continuing cost reductions.

Management expects to deliver total cost savings of $500 million to $750 million over a three- to five-year period starting in 2025. For 2026, ADM plans capital expenditures of about $1.3 billion to $1.5 billion. In the first quarter, crush margins are expected to remain in line with the fourth quarter of 2025. The Nutrition segment is also expected to improve both year over year and sequentially.

Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (NYSE:ADM) operates as a global agricultural supply chain manager and processor. The company focuses on food security by linking local demand with global capabilities, while also providing human and animal nutrition products.

18. Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE)

Market Cap as of March 24: $37.2 Billion

On March 20, Seaport Research reiterated its Buy rating on Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE). It maintained a $185 price target after the company’s Q1 pre-announcement. The analyst said the guidance is broadly in line with management’s earlier comments. Profitability is expected to improve across all three segments on a sequential basis, with Steel Mills contributing the largest gain.

A day earlier, on March 19, Nucor issued guidance for the first quarter ending April 4, 2026. The company expects earnings to come in between $2.70 and $2.80 per diluted share. For comparison, Nucor reported fourth-quarter 2025 net earnings of $1.64 and adjusted earnings of $1.73 per diluted share. In the same quarter last year, net earnings were $0.67 and adjusted earnings were $0.77 per diluted share.

Earnings in the first quarter of 2026 are expected to increase across all three operating segments compared with the fourth quarter. Steel Mills is expected to see the largest improvement, driven by higher average selling prices and stronger volumes across product categories. The steel products segment is also expected to perform better, supported by increased volumes and stable realized pricing. The raw materials segment is projected to see a slight increase in earnings during the quarter.

During the first quarter of 2026, Nucor repurchased about 0.7 million shares at an average price of $175.19 per share. This brings total capital returned to shareholders to around $250 million so far this year through dividends and buybacks.

Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE) manufactures steel and steel products, with operations in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The company also produces and sources ferrous and non-ferrous materials, mainly for use in its steelmaking business.

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

Market Cap as of March 24: $39.7 Billion

On March 23, Morgan Stanley raised its price recommendation on Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED) to $106 from $102. It reiterated an Underweight rating on the shares. The analyst said the firm is updating price targets across regulated and diversified utilities and IPPs in North America. In February, utilities outperformed the S&P’s return. The firm further noted that recent conversations in the sector have been constructive. Companies pointed to growth opportunities, stronger load expectations, and new deals tied to data centers.

Earlier, on March 12, JPMorgan also raised its price target on Consolidated Edison to $113 from $107 and maintained an Underweight rating. The firm said the changes reflect updates to its models within the North American utilities group.

Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED) operates as an energy-delivery company. Through its subsidiaries, including Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc., Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc., and Con Edison Transmission, Inc., the company provides a range of energy-related products and services to its customers.

16. Cardinal Health, Inc. (NYSE:CAH)

Market Cap as of March 24: $48.7 Billion

On March 23, Cardinal Health, Inc. (NYSE:CAH) named Patricia A. Hemingway Hall as Chair of the Board, replacing Gregory B. Kenny following his retirement. The change is effective immediately. Kenny had been with the Board since 2007 and took on the Chairman role in 2018. During his time, he helped steer the company through a period of change, including shifts in its portfolio and a focus on improving operations.

Hemingway Hall has served on the Board since 2013. She also spent nearly seven years as Chair of the Governance and Sustainability Committee. She brings a deep understanding of the company’s business and strategy. Her background also includes serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of Health Care Service Corporation, giving her direct experience in the healthcare sector.

The company said it plans to release its third-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings on April 30 and remains confident in its outlook for the year.

Cardinal Health, Inc. (NYSE:CAH) is a global healthcare services and products company. It works with hospitals, healthcare systems, pharmacies, surgery centers, laboratories, physician offices, and patients at home, providing tailored solutions across the care chain.

15. Fastenal Company (NASDAQ:FAST)

Market Cap as of March 24: $51.54 Billion

Fastenal Company (NASDAQ:FAST) was added to Wolfe Research’s favorites list, according to a CNBC report published on March 16. The report noted that the stock has been outperforming, rising over 12% so far this year. It also offers a 2.11% dividend yield. The company is often seen as a play on a recovery in US manufacturing. It has also been expanding its footprint.

Fastenal recently said it will begin construction on a new 900,000 square-foot operations and logistics hub in Carrollton, Georgia. Its fourth-quarter earnings came in line with expectations, though revenue missed estimates. More recently, the company reported February net sales growth of 13.3%, up from 12% growth in January. It is scheduled to report first-quarter results on April 13.

On March 14, Fastenal confirmed plans to build a new Southeast US regional operations and logistics center in Carrollton. The groundbreaking ceremony is set for March 24 at the Old Airport Road Development site.

Fastenal Company (NASDAQ:FAST) operates as a wholesale distributor of industrial and construction supplies. Its product range includes fasteners such as bolts, nuts, screws, studs, and washers, along with other related hardware and supplies.

14. Realty Income Corporation (NYSE:O)

Market Cap as of March 24: $56.5 Billion

On March 19, Realty Income Corporation (NYSE:O) and Apollo said that Apollo-managed funds and affiliates plan to invest $1.0 billion in Realty Income. The investment will give Apollo a 49% stake in a new joint venture that is expected to own a diversified portfolio of single-tenant retail properties under long-term net leases.

Realty Income will continue to manage the portfolio. It includes about 500 retail assets that generate stable, contractual cash flows and are supported by the company’s operating platform and asset management experience. The joint venture is a key part of Realty Income’s private capital strategy. The company is looking to diversify its sources of funding while still using public equity markets. Management expects the partnership with Apollo to provide a scalable source of equity. It is aimed at supporting investment in long-duration, stabilized assets, while preserving balance sheet strength and financial flexibility.

Since 2020, Apollo has originated more than $100 billion in tailored capital solutions for companies such as Intel, Keurig Dr Pepper, Air France-KLM, BP, Sony, AB InBev, and Vonovia. The transaction is expected to close on March 31, 2026, subject to final documentation and customary closing conditions. Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC acted as exclusive structuring agent and financial advisor to Realty Income, while Wells Fargo Securities served as financial advisor to Apollo.

Realty Income Corporation (NYSE:O) operates as a real estate investment trust. The company focuses on acquiring, owning, and managing freestanding commercial properties leased under long-term net lease agreements to a diversified group of tenants, including investment-grade and similar clients.

13. Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (NYSE:APD)

Market Cap as of March 24: $63.7 Billion

On March 20, JPMorgan upgraded Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (NYSE:APD) to Overweight from Neutral. It raised its price target on the stock to $310 from $280. The firm said it expects the shares to perform well in an environment where risks around slower economic growth, higher inflation, and rising interest rates have increased. The analyst pointed to the company’s stable earnings growth as a key factor.

JPMorgan also noted that helium prices are starting to move higher again. This shift is linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on the Qatari Ras Laffan energy complex, which accounts for about 30% of global helium production. The firm expects Air Products to see stronger volumes as well. Higher utilization rates in its chemicals and refinery-related businesses in North America are likely to support that growth, especially as oil prices remain elevated.

Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (NYSE:APD) operates as an industrial gases company. It focuses on serving energy, environmental, and emerging markets, while supplying industrial gases, equipment, and applications expertise across a wide range of industries, including refining, chemicals, metals, electronics, manufacturing, and food.

12. Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL)

Market Cap as of March 24: $67.7 Billion

On March 11, Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL) announced that its Board of Directors approved an increase in the quarterly dividend to $0.53 per share, up from $0.52. The increase will take effect in the second quarter of 2026.  On an annual basis, the payout rises to $2.12 per share from $2.08. Colgate-Palmolive has paid uninterrupted dividends on its common stock since 1895.

In a separate update, the company said Christopher Boerner, Ph.D., has been elected to its Board of Directors, effective March 15, 2026. Boerner serves as Board Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Bristol-Myers Squibb. He has been CEO since November 2023 and Board Chair since April 2024. He brings experience in global leadership and the healthcare sector. He previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer in 2023, and as Executive Vice President and Chief Commercialization Officer from 2018 to 2023. Before that, he led international markets and U.S. commercial markets after joining the company in 2015.

The company also said that Steven A. Cahillane has informed the Board he will not stand for reelection at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders on May 8, 2026. Commenting on the appointment, Noel Wallace said the company was pleased to welcome Chris to the board and expects his experience and capabilities to add meaningful value. He also thanked Steve for his service and contributions and wished him well in his future endeavors.

Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL) continues to position itself as a growth-focused business. The company operates across Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care, and Pet Nutrition.

11. Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS)

Market Cap as of March 24: $70.6 Billion

On March 25, Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS) reported its fiscal Q3 2026 results, with CEO Todd Schneider pointing to record revenue and healthy operating margins. He said total revenue increased 8.9% to $2.84 billion, with organic growth of 8.2%. The company also reached record gross margins across all three route-based businesses.

The company raised its outlook for fiscal 2026. It now expects revenue in the range of $11.21 billion to $11.24 billion, with adjusted diluted EPS between $4.86 and $4.90. Schneider also highlighted the planned acquisition of UniFirst. He said the company remains confident in the deal and the long-term value it could bring to shareholders, employees, and partners.

Executive VP and COO James Rozakis said the business is still performing well. Growth is coming from new customer wins and cross-selling to existing clients. He also noted that customer retention is at record levels, while pricing trends have remained consistent with past patterns. Executive VP and CFO Scott Garula said selling and administrative expenses accounted for 27.8% of revenue, up 60 basis points from last year.

He explained that, after adjusting for a one-time gain from an asset sale in the prior year, SG&A expenses would have been flat year over year.

Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS) develops uniform programs using fabric and serves businesses across different sizes and industries. Its operations span the United States, Canada, and Latin America. The company operates through two segments: Uniform Rental and Facility Services, and First Aid and Safety Services.

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