Happy New Year, dividend investors! As we step into 2026, the dividend growth train is already rolling. Last week, just three companies announced dividend increases, but what a quality trio they are: Alamo Group Inc. ($ALG), Bank OZK ($OZK), and EMCOR Group Inc. ($EME).These announcements highlight companies with strong fundamentals, conservative payout ratios, and impressive long-term dividend growth track records. Let's break them down.
1. Alamo Group Inc. ($ALG) – 13.3% IncreaseAlamo Group, a leader in vegetation management and infrastructure maintenance equipment, boosted its quarterly dividend by 13.3% to $0.34 per share (from $0.30).
Growth Streak: Continues a consistent history of annual increases.
Key Stats (approximate as of early January 2026):Current Price: ~$170–$186
Annual Dividend (new): ~$1.36
Yield: ~0.8–0.9%
Payout Ratio: Very safe at ~14%
FCF Payout: Comfortably low
5-Year Dividend CAGR: ~18%
This raise reflects confidence in the company's resilient business model and disciplined capital allocation.
2. Bank OZK ($OZK) – 2.2% IncreaseBank OZK, known for its rock-solid dividend reliability, raised its quarterly payout by 2.2% to $0.46 per share.
Impressive Streak: This marks the 62nd consecutive quarterly increase – truly elite territory.
Key Stats:Current Price: ~$46
Annual Dividend (new): ~$1.84
Yield: ~4.0%
Payout Ratio: ~29%
FCF Payout: Excellent coverage
5-Year Dividend CAGR: ~10%
Bank OZK's unwavering commitment to growing dividends quarter after quarter makes it a cornerstone for income-focused portfolios.
3. EMCOR Group Inc. ($EME) – Massive 60% IncreaseEMCOR Group, a powerhouse in electrical and mechanical construction services, delivered a blockbuster 60% hike, lifting its quarterly dividend to $0.40 per share (from $0.25).
Key Stats:Current Price: ~$638
Annual Dividend (new): $1.60
Yield: ~0.25%
Payout Ratio: Extremely low at ~6–9%
FCF Payout: ~4%
5-Year Dividend CAGR: ~26%
While the yield remains modest due to strong share price appreciation, this aggressive increase signals tremendous free cash flow generation and plenty of room for future growth.