The Federal Reserve raised rates by 25 basis points with more hikes expected, creating headwinds for high-yield dividend stocks. However, Ares Capital (ARCC), yielding over 10%, could benefit from rising rates since 71% of its investment portfolio is in floating-rate debt, which generates more income as rates rise. The company has a 17-year track record of maintaining stable and growing dividends through previous rate-hike cycles, making it an attractive buying opportunity despite near-term stock price pressure.
Axe note: Rising US interest rates pressure dividend stocks, but select floating-rate plays weather storms well.