Top Dividends Paying NYSE Composite Companies

Yield generally refers to the amount of cash that is paid back to the owner of a security over a specific time (usually one year). It is expressed as a percentage of current market price, and usually amounts to all the interests and/or dividends paid over a given period. A higher yield allows the shareholders to generate returns on their investments sooner. However, investors should also be aware that a high yield may be a result of market turmoil or increased price volatility. Small firms, start-ups, or companies with high growth potential typically do not pay out dividends or distribute a lot of their profits. These companies will have small yield. Alternatively, more established companies, ETFs, and funds that invest in bonds will have higher yields.