3 Dividend Stocks to Buy Right Now for Income and Upside

These three dividend stocks are worth a close look for their solid business quality and attractive payouts.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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In a market where income investors have options, the 10-year Treasury yield of 4.2% serves as a "risk-free" rate. To compete with the relatively high rate, a dividend stock must offer price appreciation and growth potential backed by solid coverage ratios. The article highlights three companies - UnitedHealth Group, Ryman Hospitality Properties, and ONEOK - that fit that bill.

Why it matters

With interest rates rising, income investors are looking for dividend stocks that can provide both steady income and potential for capital appreciation. These three companies offer attractive dividend yields along with strong business fundamentals and growth prospects.

The details

UnitedHealth Group operates the nation's largest private health insurer and is facing rising medical costs and a DOJ investigation, but its 3.2% dividend is well-covered by free cash flow. Ryman Hospitality Properties is a REIT that owns large convention resorts and country music venues in Nashville, offering a 4.8% yield. ONEOK has grown into a fully integrated natural gas and NGL business, with a 5.1% yield that is supported by rising adjusted EBITDA.

  • UnitedHealth Group reported Q4 results in early 2026.
  • Ryman Hospitality Properties reported Q3 2026 results.
  • ONEOK reported Q3 2026 results.

The players

UnitedHealth Group

The nation's largest private health insurer, operating alongside its Optum health services platform.

Ryman Hospitality Properties

A REIT that owns large-scale convention resorts and iconic country music venues in Nashville, managed by Marriott.

ONEOK

A fully integrated natural gas and natural gas liquids (NGL) business with a 60,000-mile network.

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The takeaway

With interest rates on the rise, these three dividend stocks offer income investors a compelling combination of steady payouts and potential for capital appreciation, backed by solid business fundamentals and growth prospects.