3 companies that have increased their dividend for the last 25 or more consecutive years

Stocks are going through tough times in 2022, so it's a good idea to look for companies that are not susceptible to the economic cycle and have a long history of paying dividends. Here, we'll focus on 3 companies that have increased their dividend payout year after year for at least 25 years. We could therefore label them as dividend aristocrats.

3 dividend aristocrats with resilient businesses

Realty Income

Realty Income $O is a real estate investment trust with a portfolio of more than 11,000 properties that are leased under long-term leases with commercial tenants. Realty Income's major tenants include big names like Walmart, CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens - companies that have weathered multiple economic cycles. It is this diversified and high-quality tenant base that allows Realty Income to pay reliable dividends.

Five-year price chart of O stock

One of the company's advantages is its monthly dividend distribution policy. While most dividend aristocrats pay quarterly dividends, Realty Income shareholders receive a payout every month. The current dividend yield is 4.5%.

Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola $KO is a classic example of a recession-proof business. Whether the economy is booming or struggling, a can of Coke is affordable for most people. Its entrenched market position, massive scale and portfolio of iconic brands - including names like Sprite, Fresca, Dasani and Smartwater - give it plenty of pricing power.

KO shares have added over 35% over the past 5 years

Add in solid geographic diversification - its products are sold in more than 200 countries and territories around the world - and it's clear that Coca-Cola can thrive for better or worse. After all, the company went public more than 100 years ago.

Even more impressive, Coca-Cola has increased its dividend for 60 consecutive years. The dividend yield currently stands at 2.8%.

Archer-Daniels-Midland

Archer-Daniels-Midland $ADM is a company on this list that many of you probably don't know. The company is a major processor of oilseeds, corn, wheat and other agricultural commodities. In addition, it owns an extensive network of logistics assets for storing and shipping crops around the world. The company is also a major producer of corn-based sweeteners, starches and ethanol.

ADM shares have doubled in value over the past 5 years

Agriculture is an inherently highly resilient industry. Boom or bust, people still need to eat. This resilience is reflected in ADM's share price. While the broad market is deep in the red year to date, ADM stock is up more than 30%.

ADM can be faulted for its dividend, which it has raised continuously for the last 28 years. With a yield that now stands at 1.81%, it ranks near the bottom of that list.

DISCLAIMER: All information provided here is for informational purposes only and is in no way an investment recommendation. Always do your own analysis.