Amid concerns about the trade war and its impact on retirement portfolios, monthly dividends can be a reliable source of income. This article highlights four monthly dividend stocks with yields ranging up to 17.4% annually. These stocks are particularly appealing in the current market environment, which is favorable for contrarian investors. Defensive stocks, known for their resilience during market downturns, are also worth considering. Monthly dividend stocks often belong to high-yield categories such as REITs, BDCs, and CEFs, providing more frequent and stable cash flows. However, thorough due diligence is essential to avoid potential pitfalls. Among the highlighted stocks are Realty Income (O), Main Street Capital Corp. (MAIN), Gladstone Capital Corp. (GLAD), and Dynex Capital (DX). Each offers unique advantages and challenges. Realty Income is a blue-chip REIT with a diversified tenant base. Main Street Capital is a leading BDC, though it is currently overpriced. Gladstone Capital focuses on lower middle-market businesses and has shown strong performance. Dynex Capital, a mortgage REIT, benefits from leverage and a steepening yield curve but faces rate uncertainty.
— new from Forbes