A recent broad sell-off in the stock market has left many investors feeling uncertain, but it also presents a compelling opportunity for long-term investors to acquire shares at lower prices. Historical patterns indicate that downturns like those experienced during the Great Recession and the early stages of the pandemic are temporary, often followed by robust recoveries. In the midst of this volatility, established companies can face unjust scrutiny, ultimately creating attractive buying scenarios for savvy investors.
Among the companies worth considering during this period are two dividend-paying stocks that have consistently demonstrated resilience and growth potential: Coca-Cola and Realty Income.
Coca-Cola, a globally recognized leader in the beverage market, offers a diverse portfolio that includes not only its flagship sodas but also water, juice, and plant-based beverages. While the company faced challenges in growing volume, 2025 sales still registered a solid 5% increase after accounting for foreign currency fluctuations and other factors. The strength of Coca-Cola’s brand helped it gain market share despite the pressures of inflation affecting consumer spending habits.
As of today, Coca-Cola’s stock is priced at $78.68 with a market capitalization of $338 billion. Its performance shows a daily range between $78.13 and $79.40, while its 52-week range has been between $65.35 and $80.41. The company boasts a gross margin of 63.34% and a dividend yield of 2.59%, which is significantly higher than the S&P 500’s average yield of 1.1%. Notably, Coca-Cola maintains an impressive dividend history; it has increased its dividend for 63 consecutive years, earning it the prestigious title of Dividend King. The company’s payout ratio sits at 67%, indicating its capacity to continue supporting dividend increases.
Another strong candidate is Realty Income, a real estate investment trust (REIT) known for its monthly dividend payments. REITs are particularly appealing to dividend-seeking investors because they are mandated to distribute at least 90% of their taxable income as dividends. While Realty Income derives about 80% of its rental income from retail tenants—raising concerns about exposure to economic fluctuations and online competition—the company has solidified its position by maintaining high occupancy rates and successfully increasing rental income. Currently, Realty Income enjoys a nearly 99% occupancy rate and a 3.5% rental increase on expiring leases.
Realty Income’s stock is currently valued at $65.66, with a market cap of $60 billion. It has traded within a daily range of $64.75 to $66.00 and a 52-week range of $50.71 to $66.28. The company holds a gross margin of 48.14% and offers a robust dividend yield of 4.92%. Realty Income has a remarkable track record of raising dividends, having done so for 113 consecutive quarters, and it pays out about 75% of its third-quarter adjusted funds from operations (AFFO).
For long-term investors, this stock market downturn could represent a unique opportunity to invest in companies with strong track records, reliable dividends, and the potential for future growth. As the market stabilizes, those who seize the moment might find their portfolios greatly enhanced.
