| NASDAQ (NMS) Exchange | United States Country |
This fund focuses on investing primarily in a blend of common and preferred stocks, along with master limited partnership units (MLPs) and equity real estate investment trusts (REITs) that are based in the United States. It targets small and mid-capitalization companies that are known for paying dividends and have a history of increasing their dividend payments in the most recent annual period. The core strategy involves committing at least 80% of its net assets, which includes any borrowed funds intended for investment purposes, towards securities that meet these criteria. The investment philosophy emphasizes both the growth potential and income generation capability of these entities. Decisions to sell securities are primarily driven by a company’s failure to raise its dividend or if it no longer aligns with the fund's fundamental stock selection criteria.
These are equity investments in small and mid-cap U.S. companies known for their dividend-paying capabilities. Preferred stocks often come with a fixed dividend, which gives them bond-like characteristics, prioritizing them over common stocks for income generation.
MLPs are unique investment vehicles that combine the tax benefits of a partnership with the liquidity of publicly traded securities. These are typically involved in energy and natural resources sectors and are favored for their high dividend yield potential, making them an attractive component of the fund’s portfolio.
Equity REITs allow investors to indirectly own real estate properties. These trusts pay out dividends from the income generated through the management and development of these properties. Investing in REITs offers an effective way to gain exposure to the real estate sector without the need to directly own property, aligning with the fund’s aim of diversifying income sources.