Dow Dividend Checkup: American Express

The following video is part of our "Motley Fool Conversations" series, in which analyst John Reeves discusses topics across the investing world.

American Express is one of Buffett's favorite stocks. It's been on quite a roll in 2012 so far -- it's up 18% for the year, which compares with Dow leader Bank of America, which is up 29%. American Express is one financial with a solid business model, and it has seen its shares rise steadily since the depths of the financial crisis in March 2009. Earlier this year it increased its dividend by 11%, the first increase since November 2007, though AmEx continuously paid a dividend even through the financial meltdown. Its yield is relatively low at 1.5%, which compares with the Dow average of 3%. Going forward, it's possible American Express could increase its dividend. The business should perform quite well going forward, though a rise in delinquencies would certainly hurt.

American Express is a pretty solid dividend-paying company. If you're interested in learning more about some outstanding, handpicked, income-generating stocks, The Motley Fool has compiled a special free report outlining our top nine dependable, dividend-paying stocks. It's called "Secure Your Future With 9 Rock-Solid Dividend Stocks." You can access your copy today at no cost! Just click here to discover the winners we've picked.

At the time thisarticle was published John Reeveshas no positions in the stocks mentioned above. The Motley Fool owns shares of Bank of America and Wells Fargo and has the following options: short APR 2012 $21.00 puts on Wells Fargo, short APR 2012 $29.00 calls on Wells Fargo, short OCT 2012 $33.00 puts on Wells Fargo, and short OCT 2012 $36.00 calls on Wells Fargo.Motley Fool newsletter services recommendAmerican Express, Visa, and Wells Fargo. Try any of our Foolish newsletter servicesfree for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe thatconsidering a diverse range of insightsmakes us better investors. The Motley Fool has adisclosure policy.

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