1. Diversification is key in Brad Thomas's portfolio, which includes a mix of REITs, BDCs, utilities, asset managers, preferreds, ETFs, and cash. 2. Alphabet is a strong buy despite regulatory challenges, with potential returns of 15-20% over the next 12 months. 3. ASML Holdings has a virtual monopoly in high-end photolithography systems, poised for significant growth despite geopolitical concerns. 4. LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton offers robust diversification in luxury goods with strong growth prospects and recent buyback signaling confidence.

1. The author loves stocks with high dividends and significant stock buybacks. 2. He shares three dividend stocks that meet these criteria. 3. He explains why these stocks are good buys at the moment.

1. The author visualizes their portfolio as a galley ship with rowers (steady compounders) and sails (high-yielding securities) for balanced growth and income. 2. In 2025, the author's goal is to focus on rowers to enhance dividend growth, using Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) as a primary vehicle. 3. The author has sold high-risk stocks and reinvested in higher-yielding, safer options, but now the portfolio is too weighted towards immediate income. 4. The author's buy list includes high-quality rowers like ADC, AMT, and NEE to boost overall dividend growth.

1. Consumer confidence reached a six-month high in August, potentially boosting consumer spending and benefiting the consumer discretionary sector. 2. SA Quant identified three consumer discretionary stocks with strong factor grades and dividend yields, rated as 'Strong Buy'. 3. Historically, stocks generally rise from Labor Day to year-end, and with rising consumer confidence, the consumer discretionary sector may see potential upside.

1. The article discusses the importance of compounding interest in long-term investing and highlights three stocks with strong dividend growth and robust balance sheets. 2. It emphasizes the current market challenges such as high S&P 500 valuations and geopolitical risks, yet sees significant opportunities. 3. The three recommended stocks are PepsiCo, Norfolk Southern, and GE Aerospace, each expected to offer at least 10% annual returns.