Dividend Stocks To Consider

For the third straight year, the broader U.S. stock market averages jumped out of the gate with sizable gains in January. In fact, the S&P 500's 5.04% increase in January 2013 was its best monthly start since 1997. That said, I believe there are places where investors can still selectively put new cash to work. This is especially true for companies that consistently increase their dividends. I believe the market always pays a premium for growth and the dividend yield offers a cushion if we see a near-term pullback from recent highs.

I have identified three consumer stocks with a long track record of boosting their dividends each year during that month of February that I believe are attractive to purchase ahead of the next likely increase. Adding in the benefit of the dividend, I believe these stocks have the potential to generate double-digit investment returns in 2013, with relatively lower risk the broader market averages: Coca-Cola (KO), Colgate-Palmolive (CL) and Kimberly-Clark (KMB).

Source: The Street

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