From Yahoo Finance: 2025-04-18 21:00:00

Merck, Black Hills, and Virtus Investment Partners are attractive options for income-focused investors. These companies have a history of dividend increases, with yields ranging from 4-6%. Merck, a healthcare company, raised its dividend to $0.81 per share annually, with a 4.09% yield. Black Hills, an electric and gas utility, increased its dividend to $0.676 per share annually, with a 4.63% yield. Virtus Investment Partners, an investment manager, offers a 5.95% yield with a dividend of $9 per share annually.

Merck’s annual revenue as of Dec. 31 was $64.17 billion. In Q4 2024, it reported revenues of $15.62 billion and EPS of $1.72, beating estimates. Black Hills had annual revenue of $2.13 billion as of Dec. 31. In its Q4 2024 earnings release, it posted revenues of $597.10 million, falling short of consensus, while EPS of $1.37 exceeded estimates. Virtus Investment Partners had annual revenue of $902.82 million as of Dec. 31. In its most recent earnings release, it reported Q4 2024 revenues of $233.49 million and EPS of $7.50, surpassing consensus estimates.

Investors looking for reliable passive income may find Merck, Black Hills, and Virtus Investment Partners appealing due to their consistent dividend hikes and yields of 4-6%. For more high-yield stocks, consider reading an article by Benzinga.



Read more at Yahoo Finance: Why Merck, Black Hills, And Virtus Investment Partners Are Winners For Passive Income