Chevron’s logo was spotted at a gas station in Austin, Texas, on July 18, 2025. That image got people talking. Anyway, about the Trump administration, their inconsistent trade policies have stirred up a fair bit of economic uncertainty. Still, for investors hunting for dependable income, dividend stocks might just be the way to go. These picks, suggested by top Wall Street analysts, could help stabilize portfolios with their steady payouts.
Let’s dive into three such dividend-paying stocks endorsed by the pros on Wall Street, according to TipRanks, which ranks these analysts based on past performances.
### Chevron
First up, energy powerhouse Chevron (CVX) makes the list. They recently reported earnings that beat the market for Q2, though these results were down from last year because of lower oil prices. On the bright side, Chevron expects their recent Hess deal to boost their earnings starting in the upcoming fourth quarter.
In Q2, Chevron dished out $5.5 billion back to shareholders through $2.6 billion in repurchased shares and $2.9 billion in dividends, showcasing a dividend yield of 4.4%. After their Q2 report, Devin McDermott from Morgan Stanley reaffirmed a buy rating for Chevron with a $174 price target. Meanwhile, TipRanks’ AI Analyst also gives Chevron an “outperform” rating and sets a $171 price target.
McDermott noted Chevron’s strong Q2 performance and said the completed Hess acquisition is a big plus, enhancing the company’s growth prospects and business portfolio. He also mentioned Chevron, which has been trailing behind Exxon Mobil (XOM) recently, could close the gap in growth over the next few years due to the Hess deal, projects like Tengizchevroil (TCO), and cost-saving strategies. McDermott pointed out the company’s cash flow outlook, stating a $12.5 billion inflow underway could result in an 8% free cash flow yield by 2026, surpassing Exxon Mobil and ConocoPhillips.
McDermott is ranked No. 406 among over 9,900 analysts by TipRanks. His suggestions have been profitable 59% of the time, delivering an average return of 11.6%.
### Rithm Capital
Next, there’s Rithm Capital (RITM), an asset manager known for handling credit and real estate assets. They recently posted impressive Q2 results, paying a 25-cent per share dividend for the second quarter of 2025, which gives the stock a dividend yield of 8.2%.
RBC Capital’s Kenneth Lee reacted positively to Q2, upping his price target for Rithm Capital stock from $13 to $14 while maintaining a buy rating. TipRanks’ AI Analyst, however, shows a “neutral” stance.
Lee highlighted Rithm Capital’s Q2 earnings available for distribution, which came in at 54 cents per share, beating consensus estimates. Following this, Lee increased his earnings projections for the company, viewing their shift towards a capital-light, fee-based model positively. He pointed out that Rithm won’t likely divest from Newrez, a move he sees as a strong focus on growth and ROE enhancement. He flagged the company’s AI-related cost benefits as noteworthy.
Lee is ranked No. 22 among over 9,900 analysts on TipRanks. His calls have had a success rate of 74%, yielding an average return of 18.7%.
### AT&T
Lastly, let’s check out telecom giant AT&T (T). They exceeded expectations with their Q2 earnings, especially with gains in wireless subscriber additions. Their shares provide a quarterly dividend of $0.2775, adding up to a 4% yield annually.
RBC Capital’s Jonathan Atkin maintained a buy rating on AT&T stock, with a $31 target, whereas TipRanks’ AI Analyst keeps a “neutral” rating pegged at $30.
Atkin said the revenue bump in Q2 was thanks to wireless equipment sales, while adjusted EBITDA also exceeded projections, owing to a strong Wireline sector. AT&T’s updated 2025 outlook notes cash tax benefits, boosting the Wireline business and setting a competitive scene in Wireless. Atkin mentioned the revised cash flow guidance now in the mid-$16 billion range, reflecting reinvestment in fiber and pension funds. He supported the company’s decision to emphasize capital investments for long-term growth and noted progress in phasing out old networks.
Ranked No. 234 among more than 9,900 analysts, Atkin’s recommendations have been successful 67% of the time, achieving an average return of 11.3%.
Explore further insights on these stocks through TipRanks for a deeper understanding of their market activity.
