GPC

You expect your employer to give you a salary increase periodically. Why wouldn’t you expect the same from your investments? One of the most important aspects of a dividend stock is its ability to consistency raise dividends over time.

I am a firm believer that asset allocation plays a significant part in a portfolio’s long-term results. Recently, I received a question asking if you could have a diversified portfolio of dividend stocks. It is an interesting question that deserves further examination.

To ensure a retirement that is free from financial concerns, there are certain things that must be done today. For many people this is not a desirable task. However, building a secure future by investing in quality dividend stocks is neither complicated nor overly burdensome.

I have set aside 15% in my asset allocation for small and mid-cap equities. Generally, smaller cap securities are more volatile, but often offer a higher rate of return over the long-term. Most of this allocation is covered by small cap mutual funds in my 401(k).

We all want to succeed in everything that we do, including investing in the stock market. Though I have no analytical data to back it up, I am convinced that most people will lose money in the stock market over their lifetime. So why do so few people succeed at investing?

In everything we do, we always want to be the best or be associated with the best. You never hear fans yelling, ‘We’re number 2, we’re number 2?, while holding two fingers in the air. The same is true when selecting dividend stocks.

What makes investing in dividend stocks so intriguing is the power of compound dividends. Compound interest is what occurs when interest earned is added to the principle and is considered when calculating future interest–i.e. earning interest on interest. Compound dividends are like compound interest, but much better.

How about a list of some great dividend stocks that have long history of increasing their dividends, some for decades? These have a powerful balance sheet, with a track record of generating consistent cash flows and are well-managed, but...

I have long since resolved that social security will not provide for my needs in retirement (nor was it ever intended to). I am one of an ever-shrinking group that is still covered by a defined benefit pension plan. So, how should a pension fund figure into my retirement?

When to buy a stock and at what price are very important decisions. However, serious investors will tell you the most important decision is how you allocate your assets. I recently stepped back and looked at my asset allocation with an eye toward how it will change as I approach retirement.

Atlanta-based auto replacement parts manufacturer Genuine Parts Company has seen its stock price drop in line with the overall market over the past fourteen months. This high-quality, attractive dividend paying stock is worthy of consideration as U.S. consumers are forced by a slow economy and shrinking auto leasing options to hold onto their vehicles for longer periods of time.

Alan Brochstein of AnalystForHire has been preaching that this is not the time to "be reaching for yield." He wrote articles in November, July and