iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF

DGRO

Market cap $41.7B

Maintaining adequate diversification is extremely important. However, unless you have simplifying anchors for a portfolio, it can be very easy to lose proper diversification. I share a portfolio strategy - along with specific picks - that can deliver a diversification, low-stress portfolio that generates very attractive income and dividend growth.

Market jitters return on fresh U.S.-Iran tensions. Energy, dividend, low-volatility and defensive ETFs could help investors navigate renewed uncertainty.

The iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:DGRO) and the Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (NYSEARCA:VIG) look like siblings on any fund screener: both hunt large-cap U.S.

The pitch for JPMorgan Equity Premium Income ETF (NYSEARCA: JEPI) has always been monthly cash flow and lower volatility than the S&P 500.

Many income investors struggle to balance the tension between total returns and current income. This is especially difficult during periods where tech stocks are soaring. I provide a simple and attractive approach to resolving this tension.

The iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF is rated a Buy for its superior price stability and recent momentum versus the Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF, which is rated Hold. DGRO's 5-year dividend growth entry rule and 75% payout ratio cap enable inclusion of cash-rich, newer dividend growers, better suited for the current high-rate environment. DGRO's dividend-dollar weighting and more lenient yield exclusion result in higher yield (1.94% vs. VIG's 1.47%) and greater utility sector allocation, without materially increasing risk.

Retirees heading into the back half of 2026 face a familiar puzzle: how to pull steady income from a stock portfolio without sacrificing growth that protects against inflation.

iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF (DGRO) earns a HOLD rating due to slowing dividend growth and a middle-of-the-pack strategic position. DGRO offers a low 0.08% expense ratio, 399 holdings, and a 3% single-stock cap, providing strong diversification and dependable core exposure. Recent TTM dividend growth of 6.17% lags historical averages, raising concerns about the fund's future compounding potential.

For a 59-year-old pre-retiree sitting on a six-figure dividend core, the choice between iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:DGRO) and Schwab U.S.

Welcome to the Quant Growth & Income (QG&I) portfolio, a rules-based portfolio targeting long-term capital appreciation, consistent dividend income, and reduced exposure to dividend cuts. We've unlocked three stocks from the QG&I portfolio to give you a free preview of the new income portfolio in action.