Secure 3 Stocks That Raised Their Dividends During Market Uncertainty

Wall Street Faces Ongoing Volatility in 2026

Throughout 2026, the U.S. stock market has experienced significant fluctuations, with major indices losing ground after initial gains. Persistent high costs, a tightening job market, and uncertainty regarding the Federal Reserve’s next moves on interest rates have left investors uneasy.

Inflation continues to exceed the Fed’s 2% goal, and ongoing geopolitical issues have only added to the market’s instability. In this unpredictable environment, investors who prioritize stable returns and capital preservation may find dividend-paying stocks appealing.

Dividend stocks offer consistent income through regular payouts and can help cushion portfolios against market swings. Three companies that have recently increased their dividends are HSBC Holdings plc, Stantec Inc., and Salesforce, Inc..

Economic Uncertainty Keeps Markets Unsettled

Technology stocks, which have fueled market growth in recent years, have struggled in 2026. Investors are increasingly wary of the potential for artificial intelligence to disrupt established business models, raising concerns about the long-term profitability of these investments.

While tech giants continue to pour resources into AI, some market participants worry that the sector could be experiencing a speculative bubble. As a result, many are shifting away from riskier assets in favor of more stable options.

Although inflation has moderated somewhat, it remains elevated. The labor market’s contraction has also sparked fears about the broader economic outlook. After three rate cuts totaling 75 basis points in 2025, the Federal Reserve has paused further reductions this year.

The central bank has indicated only one additional 25-basis-point cut for now. Investors hope for more rate decreases if inflation slows, but the Fed has not provided a clear timeline.

Rising tensions between Iran and the United States have further contributed to market instability, suggesting that volatility may persist for some time.

Three Companies Announcing Recent Dividend Increases

HSBC Holdings plc

HSBC Holdings plc is a leading global financial institution, managing $3.23 trillion in assets as of September 30, 2025. With a presence in nearly 60 countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, and the Americas, HSBC offers a comprehensive suite of financial services. The company is currently rated as a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

On February 25, HSBC announced a dividend of $2.25 per share, payable on April 30. The stock yields 2.10%. Over the past five years, HSBC has raised its dividend six times, with a current payout ratio of 28%.

Stantec Inc.

Stantec Inc. specializes in professional consulting services, including planning, engineering, architecture, interior and landscape design, surveying, and geomatics. The company also offers expertise in environmental sciences, project management, and infrastructure economics. STN holds a Zacks Rank #2.

On February 25, Stantec declared a dividend of $0.25 per share, to be paid on April 15. The stock’s dividend yield is 0.73%. Stantec has increased its dividend 13 times in the last five years, with a payout ratio of 18%.

Salesforce, Inc.

Salesforce, Inc. is a top provider of cloud-based Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, helping organizations manage sales, customer service, marketing, document management, analytics, and custom app development. CRM is also rated Zacks Rank #2.

On February 23, Salesforce announced a dividend of $0.44 per share, payable on April 23. The company’s dividend yield stands at 0.87%. Over the past five years, Salesforce has raised its dividend twice, with a current payout ratio of 18%.

Top Stock Picks with High Growth Potential

The Zacks research team has identified five stocks with strong potential to double in value in the coming months. Among these, Director of Research Sheraz Mian highlights one lesser-known satellite communications company as the standout pick. With the space industry expected to reach a trillion-dollar valuation and a rapidly expanding customer base, analysts anticipate a significant revenue surge for this firm in 2025. While not every recommendation achieves such results, this stock could outperform previous Zacks selections like Hims & Hers Health, which soared over 200%.