With market valuations high and potential corrections likely, the article recommends eight defensive dividend stocks across consumer staples, healthcare, and utility sectors that have consistently increased dividends for over 50 years.

Northwest Natural reported Q2 2025 earnings with revenue of $236.2 million, up 11.6% year-over-year. The company saw positive results from utility acquisitions and rate case settlements, though increased expenses partially offset gains.

Northwest Natural Holding Company reported its Q4 2024 earnings, highlighting strong performance in its natural gas distribution, water, and renewable natural gas businesses. The company initiated 2025 adjusted earnings guidance and outlined plans for continued growth and investment across its diversified portfolio.

NW Natural Holdings Company reported its Q3 2024 earnings, with the company's gas and water utility businesses performing well. The company received constructive orders in its recent rate cases, though it was disappointed with a disallowance related to line extension allowances. The company remains focused on executing its capital investment plan and growth opportunities.

With increasing economic uncertainty, the article recommends three high-yield dividend stocks - WEC Energy, Enbridge, and Northwest Natural Holding - as potential safe havens for investors during a potential bear market.

During times of turbulence and uncertainty in the markets, many investors turn to dividend-yielding stocks. These are often companies that have high free cash flows and reward shareholders with a high dividend payout. Benzinga readers can review the latest analyst takes on their favorite stocks by visiting our Analyst Stock Ratings page. Traders can sort through Benzinga's extensive database of analyst ratings, including by analyst accuracy. Below are the ratings of the most accurate analysts for three high-yielding stocks in the utilities sector. Northwest Natural Holding Co (NYSE:NWN) Dividend Yield: 5.19% Stifel analyst Selman Akyol maintained a Buy rating and raised the price target from $39 to $40 on May 7. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 69%. Janney Montgomery Scott analyst Michael Gaugler initiated coverage on the stock with a Neutral rating and a price target of $39 on Jan. 31. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 74%. Recent News: ...Full story available on Benzinga.com

NWN earnings call for the period ending March 31, 2024.

Northwest Natural (NWN) delivered earnings and revenue surprises of -7.14% and 1.09%, respectively, for the quarter ended March 2024. Do the numbers hold clues to what lies ahead for the stock?

If you are looking for reliable dividend stocks, you'll want to examine this trio of utility options while their shares are still out of favor.

Southwest Gas' (SWX) fourth-quarter earnings and revenues top estimates. New customer additions and the long-term capital expenditure plan boost earnings.

NWN earnings call for the period ending December 31, 2023.

Northwest Natural (NWN) delivered earnings and revenue surprises of -6.92% and 4.28%, respectively, for the quarter ended December 2023. Do the numbers hold clues to what lies ahead for the stock?