The Best Dividend Stocks to Buy and Hold Forever
The Motley Fool
by newsfeedback@fool.com (Geoffrey Seiler)February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The article highlights two top dividend stocks, Energy Transfer (NYSE: ET) and Enterprise Products Partners, as ideal choices for long-term investors seeking high-yield returns with growth potential. These companies operate in the energy midstream space, offering strong cash flow visibility and stable payouts. Energy Transfer recently increased its distribution by over 3%, resulting in a forward yield of 7.4%. Both companies are master limited partnerships (MLPs) that provide reliable income through their infrastructure assets, making them attractive for buy-and-hold strategies.
Energy Transfer's distribution is well-covered by its distributable cash flow, with a coverage ratio of 1.7 times, indicating financial stability. The company has also improved its balance sheet and boasts the highest percentage of take-or-pay contracts in its history, ensuring predictable revenue streams. This strong contractual visibility allows Energy Transfer to maintain steady growth and attractive yields for investors.
Enterprise Products Partners is another standout MLP with a proven track record of consistent dividend growth. Its infrastructure plays a critical role in energy supply chains, further enhancing its reliability as an investment. Both companies benefit from the stable demand for energy transportation and processing, which underscores their long-term viability.
For readers interested in finance and investing, these stocks offer a unique combination of high yields, growth potential, and stability. The energy midstream sector's predictable cash flows and essential infrastructure make it a compelling option for income-focused investors seeking diversification or steady returns. By focusing on companies with strong financial metrics and contractual security, Energy Transfer and Enterprise Products Partners provide reliable opportunities for long-term wealth building in the stock market.
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Originally published on The Motley Fool on 2/14/2026