Fear can make investors do a lot of strange things. But don’t avoid the many true bargains available today in our universe of essential-service stocks. Read More

The natural gas story has already changed dramatically, for the worse over the past several years. It's time for dividend-focused investors to prepare for the next shift and pick up some values. Read More

Although income-oriented investors often bemoan market volatility, a systematic approach to building positions during downturns enhances both income and total return. Read More

Although most of the financial media is fixated on the European debt crisis, income investors should pay close attention to China. That’s because a strengthening Chinese economy will bolster markets along with dividend-paying names. Read More

Let me be very clear: There is no bubble in "dividend-paying stocks." Read More

With November elections fast approaching there’s plenty for investors to worry about, including a resurgence of bashing utility stocks. Read More

Until the European debt crisis calms, investors must monitor their holdings for any worrisome changes that could undermine a company's ability to endure a dangerous macro environment. Here's how to assess a company's vulnerability to the European contagion. Read More

Backed by one of the steadiest oil-and-gas producing MLPs around, this bond will generate a reliable return of between 7 percent and 8 percent until at least 2015. Read More

Despite steep declines for both the price of its coal and output volume, this MLP boosted its distribution for the fifth straight quarter. Read More

The loss of a a major partner and the concomitant hit to revenue has led management of one rural telecom to slash its overall payout by more than 40 percent. Read More