Lowe’s Companies (LOW) and Walmart (WMT) are recommended as long-term dividend stocks for income investors due to their consistent dividend growth and yield. Lowe’s, with a market value of $136.9 billion, has seen a 12.4% YTD gain and benefits from a robust home improvement sector fueled by a tight housing market and DIY culture.

The company has increased its dividend for 53 consecutive years, showcasing its financial stability. Walmart, valued at $361.9 billion, is a dividend stock with a stable and growing dividend payout ratio of 45.3%, indicating ample earnings support for the current dividend. Despite challenges, both companies are projected to see earnings growth over the next two years.

In terms of Lowe’s Co., for the first quarter 2024, the North Carolina-based specialty retailer reported comparable sales decreased by 5.1%, which was below the consensus estimate for a decline of 4.4%. The company noted that comparable sales for the quarter saw continued pressure in discretionary bigger ticket spending adversely impacting sales in seasonal and other outdoor categories, partially offset by positive comparable sales in the off- and online businesses.