My bullish thesis on Verizon (NYSE:VZ), the second most valuable U.S. telecom carrier, centers on its role as a defensive stock suited for portfolio strategy rather than solely relying on future price appreciation. Despite grappling with significant debt and cash flow disruptions in recent years, Verizon has maintained its dividend growth. After briefly examining its consistent dividends and strategic portfolio role, I will explain why I consider investing in Verizon, a defensive stock, to be a favorable opportunity at present.
Dividend Consistency and Growth amid Backdrops
Since the 1980s, when it was still called Bell Atlantic, Verizon has paid generous dividends to its shareholders. Over the last 17 years, the company has increased its dividend every year, with a CAGR of 5.3% in the last decade.
In the last three years, Verizon has risen its quarterly dividend per share from ~$0.63 $0.665. However, during this time,…
