The 8 Best Cookware Sets of 2019

Thanks for joining us for Cookware Week! In case you missed it, we shared our favorite cookware sets, accessories, and kitchen appliances, plus intel on how to care for all of it, and the best recipes to make with every piece.

Whether you’re moving into your first house, replacing old pots and pans, or simply shopping for a housewarming gift, you can’t go wrong buying a full set of cookware. This ensures you’ll have all the essential equipment to whip up a delicious meal, and as an added bonus, your collection of pots and pans will look beautifully cohesive.


However, there are so many cookware sets to choose from, ranging from under $100 to close to $1,000. It can be a tough choice, especially if you’re not familiar with common cookware brands. To help make your decision a little easier, here are some of our absolute favorite cookware sets that you can buy today:

Best Overall: All-Clad D3 Tri-Ply Bonded Cookware Set
Best Under $100: T-fal Titanium Nonstick Cookware Set, 12-Piece
Best Under $200: Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set
Best Nonstick: Cuisinart GreenGourmet Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set
Best Stainless Steel: Tramontina 12-Piece Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Clad Cookware Set
Best Copper: Calphalon Tri-Ply Copper 10-Piece Cookware Set
Best Cast Iron: Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 5 Piece Bundle
Best for Small Kitchens: Calphalon Premier Space-Saving Nonstick 6-Piece Set
What to Look For When Buying a Cookware Set
There are a number of factors you’ll want to consider when shopping for cookware. First of all, there’s the choice of material. Cookware is commonly made from aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron, copper, or a combination of several materials, and each type of metal has its pros and cons.

Related Reading: How to Clean Cast Iron

For example, aluminum pieces are typically less expensive, but they’re also less durable. Stainless steel can withstand more heavy use, but it costs more and isn’t as great at conducting heat (which is why stainless steel pans often have an aluminum core).

You’ll also want to think about what pieces you need—if you already have a stockpot you love, for example, you might want to look for a set without one to save a little money. Further, make sure to carefully look at what’s included in each set, as some brands try to “inflate” the number of pieces by including small utensils like spoons and spatulas that you might already own.

Other important considerations include the type of stove you have—for instance, not all cookware works on induction burners—as well as how you plan to use the pieces. Some cookware is dishwasher- and oven-safe, while other sets need to be cared for by hand.

Related Reading: 8 Cardinal Cookware Sins You Don’t Realize You’re Committing

We’ve taken all these factors into account as we hand-selected the following cookware sets. After completing hours of research, reading product reviews, comparing brands, and taking a deep dive into each item’s reviews, we’re confident these product recommendations are the best you can buy today.

Best Overall: All-Clad D3 Tri-Ply Bonded 10-Piece Cookware Set, $699.95 on Amazon

Amazon

If you want the absolute best cookware set, no matter the price, arguably the best option is this 10-piece set from All-Clad. While it’s not cheap, this set of stainless steel cookware will last for the rest of your life (if taken care of properly), making it a worthwhile investment for home chefs.

This set includes both 8- and 10-inch frying pans, 2- and 3-quart saucepans with lids, a 3-quart saute pan with lid, and an 8-quart stock pot with lid. All the pieces are made from three-ply stainless steel with a thick-gauge aluminum core for better conduction and more even heat distribution, and they feature riveted stainless steel handles. The pots and pans are warp-resistant, induction-compatible, dishwasher-safe, and oven-safe up to 600 degrees (without their lids).

These products are made in the U.S. and come with a limited lifetime warranty. Reviewers say they heat evenly and look beautiful—most agree that they’re 100 percent worth the investment!

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Best Under $100: T-fal Titanium Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set, $96.20 on Amazon

Amazon

For those outfitting their first home, a budget-friendly cookware set might be more practical. In this case, you can’t go wrong with the 10-piece nonstick set from T-fal. This brand is known for its affordable prices, and this set has everything a novice chef needs to get started in the kitchen.

With this bundle, you get both 8- and 9-inch frying pans, 1- and 2-quart saucepans, a 3-quart deep saute pan, a 5-quart Dutch oven, four glass lids, a slotted spatula, and a solid spoon. The cookware is made from aluminum and features the company’s “Titanium Advanced” nonstick finish to ensure your eggs always slide right out.

Additionally, the pans feature a “thermospot temperature indicator” that shows when the pan is preheated to the proper temperature—it’s a helpful hack for those just starting out with cooking. Plus, reviewers rave about the quality and performance of these wallet-friendy pans, writing that the cookware “really does make you a better cook.”

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Best Under $200: Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set, $197.21 on Amazon

Amazon

Cuisinart offers quality mid-priced cookware, and many people have good things to say about the 12-piece set from this brand. The pots and pans have a classic, elegant appearance and come with a variety of features that will make your time in the kitchen that much more enjoyable.

This set comes with 1.5- and 3-quart saucepans with lids, 8- and 10-inch open skillets, a 3.5-quart saute pan and lid, an 8-quart stockpot and lid, as well as a steamer insert and matching lid. The pans are made with a pure aluminum core, triple-ply stainless steel walls, and a beautiful brushed finish. The rims are tapered for drip-free pouring, and the cookware has “Heat Surround” technology that allows for even heat distribution along the sides and walls—so say goodbye to hot spots!

The Cuisinart set is dishwasher- and oven-safe up to 550 degrees, and it can be used on induction cookware. According to reviewers, these pots and pans will last for years if you take care of them properly, and many say they perform as well as other high-end stainless steel pans.

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 Best Nonstick: Cuisinart GreenGourmet Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set, $150.99 on Amazon

Amazon

No one loves scrubbing burnt food off the bottom of their favorite skillet, which is why nonstick cookware is so popular. The nonstick pots and pans in this 12-piece set from Cuisinart are incredibly easy to care for, as pretty much all food will slide right off the scratch-resistant, ceramic-based nonstick coating. They’re made from hard-anodized aluminum to ensure even heat distribution and eliminate hot spots, and they’re oven-safe to 400 degrees.

This set includes an 8-inch skillet, 10-inch frying pan with lid, 1.5- and 2.5-quart saucepans with lids, a 3-quart “everyday” pan with lid, a 6-quart Dutch oven with lid, and a steamer insert. Because the set is part of Cuisinart’s GreenGourmet line, the products feature an eco-friendly nonstick coating and the handles are made from 70 percent recycled steel.

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 Best Stainless Steel: Tramontina 12-Piece Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Clad Cookware Set, $219.97 from Walmart

Walmart

Stainless steel pans are undeniably pretty, and they also deliver in terms of performance, as this metal is incredibly durable. If you’re partial to stainless steel, you’ll like this 12-piece cookware set from Tramontina, as it provides unbeatable heat diffusion and durability.

In this set, you’ll find 10- and 12-inch frying pans, 5-, 3-, and 1.5-quart saucepans with lids, a 5-quart Dutch oven with lid, and a 12-quart stockpot with a lid. The cookware is made from triple-ply stainless steel and features riveted, ergonomic handles. All of the pieces can be put in the dishwasher and are oven-safe up to 500 degrees. Plus, their precision-fitted lids help to lock in flavor, and reviewers you can’t beat this set for price and performance. send gift to India online

source - https://www.chowhound.com/food-news/241474/best-cookware-sets-2019

Chowhound Gift Guide 2019: Gifts for the Eco-Conscious Cook

Eco-friendly gifts are perfect for that environmentally conscious, food-loving friend or relative, or for that loved one you’d like to aggressively push gently guide toward being more environmentally conscious. Since the ideal green gift leans more thoughtful than preachy, it’s important to choose items that are both meaningful and fun—and maybe even delicious!




As Kermit the Frog famously said, “It’s not easy being green,” but we’re hoping to take a little pressure off with these eco-friendly gift ideas for that beloved cook or food aficionado in your life.

For the Sparkling Water Enthusiast:
Aarke Sparkling Water Carbonator, $219 at Sur la Table

Sur La Table

A home sparkling water carbonator helps you avoid constantly buying packaged bubbly water in bottles or cans, creating less waste in a world where recycling isn’t always perfect. Though we like the utility of the SodaStream, for a holiday gift that packs a punch, the Aarke Carbonator II is next level. With colors like copper or brass, this soda maker is more of a pièce de résistance for your countertop, adding sophistication and a little glitz to everyday soda water making. And for the consummate host, this is the perfect gift to match the ambience of a stylish holiday party.

Be aware that the Aarke does not include the required CO2 canister, though it does work with SodaStream refill carbonators that can be found at Target as well as Bed Bath & Beyond (each with their own used-canister exchange program). In this way, you get effervescent elegance from Aarke, while minimizing soda can waste through the CO2 canister refills.

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For the Coffee Lover:
Driftaway Coffee Subscription, $75+
Driftaway Coffee Subscription
Driftaway Coffee

With the goal of carbon-free coffee by 2022, Driftaway Coffee is hyper-focused on sustainability. They minimize energy use through their green sourcing, roasting, and shipping methods, and they offset their remaining carbon footprint through contributions toward an organization that fights deforestation. Not only that, but their packaging is compostable. So much green!

Given that, a gift subscription is a wonderful present for an eco-aware java-holic, and a tasting kit subscription delivers an extra element of variety and fun. As an example, a three-month tasting kit subscription will cost $75, delivering four mini (4-ounce) bags of whole bean coffee each month for the recipient to brew and sample.

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For the Friend-About-Town:
Stojo Pocket Cup, $14.99 on Amazon

Amazon

At coffee shops and fast-casual restaurants, having your own reusable cup for beverages means saving a paper or plastic cup from use and from the trash. The trouble is, you can’t always come prepared with a spare cup—until now! Give the gift of the Stojo Pocket Cup, and let your recipient marvel at the packability of its scrunched-up form. Toss it in a bag or in a coat pocket, and never worry about having to plan ahead with a reusable cup. And don’t forget about those coffee shops that provide a little discount for bringing one’s own cup—it’s sort of like you’re also giving the gift of 25 cents off drip coffee, then, too.
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For the Conscientious Cook:
“Cooking with Scraps” by Lindsay-Jean Hard, $12.23 on Amazon

Amazon

A hardcover cookbook is always a nice gift for a home chef, and when that home chef is passionate about helping the environment, then a book about minimizing food waste is the way to go! “Cooking with Scraps: Turn Your Peels, Cores, Rinds, and Stems into Delicious Meals” is a book full of clever recipes for using banana peels, watermelon rinds, broccoli stems, and other food parts that mind otherwise end up in the trash. Amazon reviewers love the approachable tone and the unusual recipe ideas—great for an eco-minded person looking for ways to reduce food waste.
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For the Seafood Fan:
Patagonia Provisions Salmon + Mussels Gift Box, $59

Patagonia Provisions

No stranger to corporate responsibility, Patagonia applies similar values to its food division, Patagonia Provisions. For the environmentally-focused seafood lover, reading up on sustainable sourcing practices can be complicated and time-consuming, but Patagonia Provisions provides transparency on how and why they source both salmon and mussels. As such, the Patagonia Provisions Salmon + Mussels Gift Box makes a marvelous present for any seafood aficionado who is also concerned about responsible sourcing!
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For the Meat-Free Dabbler:
Vegan Starter Kit, $36.81 at Thrive Market

Thrive Market

More and more people are exploring meat-free cuisine with environmentalism as a motive. To help offset the hefty greenhouse gas emissions associated with meat production, even some carnivorous folks are trying out flexitarian diets, or the occasional Meatless Monday. For someone dabbling in vegetarianism or veganism, a kit full of vegan goodies is sure to delight and inspire.

Thrive Market’s Vegan Starter Kit includes an eclectic selection of vegan products to pique the interest of that friend curious about animal-free eating. Plantain chips and pinto beans ease you into the kit, while kelp noodles and vegan jerky might test your propensity for adventurous eating. Obviously, this is NOT the gift to force upon family members who have given no indication they are interested in a more veggie-forward diet—no need to make the holidays tempeh-stuous!

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For the Hangry Vegetarian/Vegan Minimalist:
Vegan Snack Kit, $40.10 at Thrive Market

Thrive Market

Or, for those already squarely in the vegetarian or vegan side of things, consider the gift of snacks. We all have that friend who is constantly eating (it’s me), and that friend who would prefer online gifts that don’t create a lot of clutter (it’s also me). This gift of Thrive Market’s Vegan Snack Kit is green in its enablement of a meat-free lifestyle, and it’s perfect for someone who enjoys trying new foods like Vegan Rob’s Probiotic Cauliflower Puffs or Pan’s Mushroom Jerky. Consume without all the consumerism!
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For the Planner:
Zero Waste Starter Kit, $43.95 on Amazon

Amazon

Some people really embrace the set-up around a new hobby or passion—these are the people who research the perfect racquet and shoes before ever setting foot on the tennis court. No judgement; for these people who get energized for new habits through new gear, this Zero Waste Starter Kit will help them embrace a greener lifestyle. Comprised mostly of food storage and lunch accessories, this kit includes a biodegradable travel cup, reusable bamboo cutlery, beeswax food storage wraps, and more. First the zero-waste kit; next, the zero-waste world!
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For the Wildcard:
MightyFix Subscription, $33-$114 on MightyNest

When you’re not sure exactly what your giftee might like, lead with the element of surprise. The promise of a MightyFix subscription is simple: “Each month we will send a fun, unique product that encourages a healthier, greener lifestyle.” A three-month subscription will cost $33 (plus a $3.95 shipping fee per box), and you can either choose the first gift yourself, selecting between a Stasher storage bag, Bee’s Wrap food wrapping, or a Swedish dishcloth (all reusable, of course)—or, you let MightNest choose the first send gifts online from their most popular items, making this present a surprise for all involved.
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For the Tidy Chef:
Seasons Cleanings Bundle, $22.95 on Grove Collaborative

Grove Collaborative

For most of us, cooking doesn’t end when the meal is finished—there’s usually cleanup to be done. As I’ve learned, cleaning is more fun when using products that smell nice and aren’t full of chemicals, like the Mrs. Meyer’s soaps and cleaning spray in this Seasons Cleanings Bundle.

Grove Collaborative upholds high standards like non-toxic ingredients and minimal packaging with its products and partners, plus they offset the carbon footprint of every shipment! This means you get quality plant-based products from a company that funds earth-friendly initiatives to reduce carbon emissions. With scents like Iowa Pine, Orange Clove, or Peppermint, this bundle is sure to get eco-minded chefs in the holiday mood.

source - https://www.chowhound.com/food-news/245572/gift-guide-2019-eco-friendly-food-gifts/

9 Luxury Corporate gift ideas for high-end clients

When you’re in the corporate sector, it’s a crucial part of the success to maintain good relationships. Sending out presents is an approach to create a good reputation with your colleagues and clients. Rewarding will build a strong working relationship which will eventually help your business grow. Are you clueless about what to gift your loyal employees and customers this Christmas? To make it easier for you, we’ve come up with 9 gift ideas which are sure to please your employees and high-end clients.

1. Customizable Service

You must have seen a few cool services out there that can be customized to your client’s lifestyle. Consider gifting a subscription to health and fitness products, beauty products, food, snacks, basically anything that matches your client’s lifestyle. Ideally, you can even buy the subscription, send it to the client via email and make them set up their accounts so that they can keep a track of what they receive. This will be a monthly reminder of your relationship



Pocket Watches



Pocket watches are versatile, trendy and can even be personalized making them a classic gifting choice for your high-end clients. In some pocket watches, you can even inscribe a  personalized message. These watches have a vintage touch making it one of the ideal high-end Christmas gift ideas that you should definitely consider. Make your gift stand out!



Photo Frames



Make your gift a little more personal by gifting an elegant photo frame. This will be the perfect way to thank your clients for their immense support and commitment. You can go for a crystal, gold or silver coated frame as it adds brilliance to the photographs as well as to the workspace. Ideally, it’s a gift worth considering since it can be treasured for a lifetime.



Flower and Bonsai



Beautiful flowers or a bonsai with a handwritten letter and beautiful packaging would make a perfect Christmas gift idea for your High clients. One thing you need to keep in mind while choosing a bouquet is that you always opt premium blooms and not cheap dyed flowers. You can choose classic flowers like orchids, roses or lilies. If you pick a plant-like Bonsai, be sure to pick the perfect size that fits the desk or room.



Candlesticks



Every celebration needs decoration. When you think about decoration, Candlesticks and votives are beautiful and inviting. These beautiful decor items would give an aesthetic feel to space. Candlelight gives a warm and pleasant feeling relaxing the body and mind. Gifting candlesticks is a way to spread light and love. This way, you create more personal relations with your employees or acquaintances.

6. Lunch or Dinner
What is more enticing than a well-prepared meal? Nobody can argue with that. Take your client out for lunch or dinner(according to clients preference) in a fancy restaurant, I’m sure he won’t be disappointed. You can even send prepared meals. The beauty of prepared meals is that it doesn’t matter if the client is a foodie, gourmet or couldn’t care less about what’s on their plate. Luckily, there are many catering firms that can be easily reached and to serve this purpose.



Vases



It’s no wonder that flowers make any space inviting as it brings nature indoors. A lot of people consider gifting a classic vase as a welcome gift. And why shouldn’t they? Nothing can go wrong with a classic or vintage vase. On the other hand, a polished vase makes an elegant corporate gift and can be used for years to come ahead. The client will love this elegant piece which brings brilliance to their office or home. This is also a choice for a retirement gift.



Drinkware set



Another ideal luxury corporate item to gift online any recipient would be an exquisite drinkware set. They can be used for daily occasions as well as on parties as well. Make sure to add a personal touch to make your classic gift stand out from the client’s regular drinkware. To make it more personal, you can even add a quote or a message of appreciation.



source - https://ventsmagazine.com/2019/11/14/9-luxury-corporate-gift-ideas-for-high-end-clients/

Annals of Neo-Soviet Self-Destruction

Russia is a fascinating country in that, no matter how extreme or bizarre you might find a given bit of breaking news to be today, there's always something that will happen tomorrow that will make today's events seem perfectly tepid by comparison.

So we might have learned yesterday that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is seeking to justify his insidious crackdown on human rights by comparing himself to Franklin Roosevelt, and been shocked by the news. After all, while it's true that FDR was a rat bastard who created race-based concentration camps, tried to subvert the Supreme Court, lied about his medical status and broke George Washington's time-honored tradition of a two-term presidency, it's equally true that each and every time FDR stood for election he did so in a hotly contested campaign against an organized party that had previously held power. Vladimir Putin, by contrast, has never done that. Moreover, FDR has been the target of scathing criticism from day one to the present time, and this is hardly the case in Russia (nor could it be, since the Kremlin has bought or killed every journalist who might write such criticism in mass circulation). And that's to say nothing of the seething contempt Russia shows for all things American -- that is, until Russia wants to justify something bad. Then, suddenly, America is a hallowed model.

But that was yesterday! What is all that amazing garbage compared to today's bulletin, as reported byReuters:

Russia plans to turn the tables on Western critics of its human rights record by setting up an organisation to monitor rights abuses in Europe and the United States, the man behind the project said on Friday. Anatoly Kucherena, a prominent lawyer and presidential appointee to an official council on human rights and civil society, said the organisation would have its headquarters either in Brussels or Germany. 'In recent years there has been a lot of criticism linked to human rights violations in Russia. But believe me, these things happen in other countries too,' Kucherena told reporters. "Imagine if Russia, or Russian human rights activists, were to prepare a corresponding report about, for example, the state of human rights in France? What would happen?" Kucherena has made a name for himself championing ordinary citizens against incompetent or corrupt bureaucrats. He is often shown on state-controlled television -- a sign he has a degree of Kremlin approval. He did not say how the organisation would be funded. "Of course there are problems with human rights in Russia," Kucherena said. "But for me personally, as Anatoly Kucherena, I really do not like it when information contained in these reports (by Western organisations on rights in Russia) ... has some kind of ideological subtext. To be honest, it is unpleasant when our country is ranked in 145th place in some index (of human rights) and it is not clear what methodology was used."
Can you imagine what New Yorkers would say if the manager of the New York Yankees, having just suffered a humiliating defeat, announced that his response was to appoint a commission that would investigate and publicize the failings of the Boston Red Sox, and further to explore whether inaccurate umpiring were not the real cause of the disaster? Can you imagine what would happen to the Yankees' fortunes if they were actually managed on that basis? Can you imagine what a judge would say to a murderer who claimed he couldn't be prosecuted because he wasn't the only one who committed murders or because not every murdered had been apprehended?

Note that Mr. Kucherena doesn't indicate he has any reason to believe Russia can do a better job monitoring human rights abuses in the U.S. than, say, Amnesty International, nor does he indicate any genuine concern for saving American human rights victims (that would be hard to believe, given Russian support for terrorist maniacs like those in Venezuela, Iran, Hezbollah and Hamas). His reason for taking this action is that data keeps humiliating Russia and he wants to distract people's attention from it. Cut off from anything vaguely like real information about the West (that same West he says he's going to judge) by a Kremlin that has seized control of all Russia's wide-circulation media outlets and propagandized them, he (like most Russians) simply doesn't know how aggressively the West already polices and criticizes itself (take for instance the recent reports that British authorities are investigating a four-year-old child for racism).

Wouldn't it be appropriate, at the very least, to sponsor both an effort to accurately monitor the status of human rights in Russia as well as exposing the alleged failings of other countries? Or perhaps to voice some opposition to the ongoing efforts of the Kremlin to wipe out all such existing efforts?

Not, amazing as it seems, if you are a Russian it wouldn't.

All through the Soviet era we saw exactly this kind of "thinking." Everyone in the world knows Russia has serious problems with human rights, just as the USSR did, but instead of working to remove those problems Russia's response is to create as smokescreen, to claim that other countries have problems so Russia can ignore its own and to claim that data on Russian problems isn't perfect (the next thing you know they'll be inventing their own Nobel prize rather than learning how to do what it takes to win the real ones). The result of such an attitude can only be the absence of reform, the exacerbation of existing problems and the creation of new ones until, just as happened with the USSR, the country collapses.

To put it bluntly, Mr. Kucherena and his ilk are far more dangerous to Russia than any foreign "critic" could hope to be. Yet, he's lionized as a Russian hero while those who struggle for reform, like Anna Politkovskaya and Mikhail Khodorkovsky, are either jailed or killed outright. Which leaves us with a country whose population is dwindling, whose male adult life span is less than 60 years, and whose average wage is less than $5 per hour.

source - http://publiuspundit.com/articles/2007/10/annals_of_neosoviet_selfdestru.php

The Best And Worst High-Yield Dividend Aristocrats

The biggest complaints about the Dividend Aristocrats tend to come from new money. That’s because many of them, while generously raising their payouts year after year, offer skinflint yields that average 2.35% – almost right on par with the 10-year T-note.

You can find a little more relief from a similar club: The High Yield Dividend Aristocrats. This is a group of roughly 110 S&P Composite 1500 stocks that has paid and increased dividends for at least 20 consecutive years. It’s slightly less exclusive than the S&P 500 Aristocrats, and doesn’t actually yield much differently on average, but the larger selection includes several higher-yield growers that I want to highlight today.

I’ll beat this idea like a drum: Dividend growth is a vital component of any retirement portfolio. While you need a high enough income yield to ensure you can pay the bills once your salary is gone, dividend growth will ensure that inflation doesn’t erode the buying power of those regular payouts – and ensure that you always have enough to live on.

But dividend growth also acts as a telltale sign of equity quality.

Consider a 2016 study from S&P Dow Jones Indices on dividend growth strategies, which compares the S&P 500 High Dividend Index, S&P Composite 1500 and S&P High Yield Dividend Aristocrats. Not only does this group of high-yield royalty deliver payout growth – its stocks also boast more tenable debt-to-equity situations and far better earnings growth.

Today In: Investing

The same study shows how resilient High Yield Dividend Aristocrats are in down markets.

Long story short? On the whole, these high-yield dividend growers can punch far above their weight. But, like with any group of stocks, you need to be selective – if they were all gems, no one would own anything else.

PROMOTED

That said, here are the best and the worst of the High Yield Dividend Aristocrats:

People’s United Financial

Dividend Yield: 3.7%

People’s United Financial is a mid-cap regional bank stock that operates as People’s United Bank. The bank boasts more than 300 branches across the Northeast – states such as Massachusetts, Vermont and Connecticut, among others.

There’s nothing out of the ordinary about People’s – it provides retail banking services such as checking and savings accounts, commercial banking and wealth management products.

But it’s hard not to love what’s underneath the hood. People’s has rebounded well out of the 2007-09 bear market and financial crisis, and has grown its top and bottom lines each year since 2014. People’s United is on track to finish 2017 up as well, and Wall Street analysts project more of the same going into 2018. Investors should feel even more optimistic about next year, as Jerome Powell – President Donald Trump’s nominee to replace Janet Yellen as the Federal Reserve’s chair – said he supports “tailoring” regulations to take some weight off the backs of smaller banks, which is good news for the likes of PBCT.

People’s United also is a serial dividend raiser that has boosted its payout for 24 consecutive years. Considering the prospects for better business, a potentially more friendly regulatory environment and tax cuts, PBCT should be able to keep its foot on the dividend pedal.

Kimberly-Clark

Dividend Yield: 3.2%

It rarely pays to bet against consumer staples stocks. After all, their recession-resistant wares and typically sturdy dividends will ensure that they stay afloat. But your objective in retirement isn’t to tread water – it’s to get ahead.

Kimberly-Clark, despite its 45-year streak of consecutive dividend hikes, won’t get you there.

Yes, this staples giant boasts incredible geographic reach of 175 countries, with the company claiming that a quarter of the world’s population uses KMB products such as Huggies diapers, Kleenex tissues and Scott paper towels.

But conscientious “mom-sumers” are gravitating away from the likes of Kimberly-Clark and toward companies such as Jessica Alba’s Honest Co., which offer “non-toxic” baby products. Thus, despite expanding economies in the U.S. and across the globe, Kimberly’s revenues have been thinning out for years. In fact, 2017 is an outlier in that the company should deliver top-line growth – but just 0.5% worth, or so Wall Street’s pros expect.

Tanger Factory Outlet Centers

Dividend Yield: 5.6%

2017 has been a mostly grim year for retail, with mall-based operators such as JCPenney, Sears and Macy’s plunging between 30% and 60% as Amazon.com sucks the life out of brick-and-mortar rooms.

Retail REITs – some of which own the malls that are suffering from store closures and lower occupancy – have cracked, too. But a few babies are being thrown out with the bathwater.

Take Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, for instance.

Tanger owns, operates or has an ownership interest in 44 upscale outlet malls across 22 states, featuring stores that are diversified across 510 different companies – factory stores from Adidas and Ecco to Kate Spade and Tumi.

Now, SKT has been absolutely pelted this year, to the tune of 26%, which has juiced its dividend yield to its highest point since 2009. But the company now boasts 56 consecutive quarters of same-center net operating income, continues to grow adjusted funds from operations and even raised its year-end occupancy guidance to 96.5%-97%.

Investors should be cautious about the retail space, but the selloff in Tanger is grossly overdone. New money has a chance to jump into a quality, high-yield name that doesn’t face the same pressures as traditional mall retailers, and at a value price of just 12 times FFO. And next year, investors likely will take part in what would be the company’s 25th consecutive annual dividend increase.

National Retail Properties

Dividend Yield: 4.6%

In the same vein is National Retail Properties, which has lost about 6% this year – not as ugly as Tanger’s result, but undeserved nonetheless considering what the company has to offer.

National Retail Properties is a retail-centric REIT, yes. But this isn’t a traditional mall operator – instead, the company focuses its energy on single-tenant leases to businesses such as Sunoco gas stations, LA Fitness gyms, SunTrust banks, AMC Theaters and Frisch’s restaurants.

You see any real potential Amazon victims there? I don’t. I also don’t see an occupancy problem, either. Portfolio occupancy was 98.8% as of Sept. 30, admittedly down year-over-year, but consider this – the company’s lowest rate in 14 years was still a high 96.4%, and NNN’s average remaining lease still has 11.4 years left on it.

Better still, this REIT operates via “net leases,” which put the onus of things such as property taxes, insurance and repairs on the tenant – NNN simply cashes the rent check, which makes its operations far more consistent and predictable.

That helped National Retail Properties deliver its 28th consecutive annual dividend hike this year. The REIT bumped its quarterly payout up by 4.4% to 47.5 cents per share as of its late July distribution, and should continue to reward investors in a similar matter for years on end.

Target

Dividend Yield: 4.1%

Target – also a member of the actual S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, at 46 straight dividend hikes and counting – is starting to show a little fight in the back half of the year after cratering since late 2016. That’s in large part because of optimism about the holiday shopping season, with more customers hitting stores than expected.

The problem is, more people shopped online, and from mobile, than ever before – and that doesn’t play into Target’s hand.

Amazon.com has long been eating the lunch of large retailers such as Target and Walmart. But while the latter has fought back strong via its purchase of Jet.com, Bonobos and other online operators, the former has become relatively stagnant – its most recent big online initiative is GiftNow, a neat feature that allows people to send gifts online, then allows recipients to swap colors and sizes. It’s great, but so far this year, Walmart has been the web’s growth juggernaut, growing online sales 50% in the third quarter – more than double Target’s growth rate.

Speaking more broadly, Target simply can’t and doesn’t compete on price as well as Walmart does, with its only positive differentiation being the in-store experience – something that’s becoming less important as e-commerce takes up a bigger portion of the pie. That’s reflected in Wall Street’s expectations, with the pros forecasting a mere 2.4% rebound in sales, then another decline in 2019.

Target may be a more appealing brand than Walmart, but as an investment going forward, it’s second-rate.

source - https://www.forbes.com/sites/brettowens/2017/12/16/the-best-and-worst-high-yield-dividend-aristocrats/#7fb4cf926c58

Ganesh Chaturthi Gifts from Indiagift to Add a Certain Ring to Your Celebrations

Indiagift heralds Ganesh Chaturthi festivities with a fabulous range of online gifts that suit the occasion just fine. From eco-friendly Ganesh figurines to special sweets, this online gift website is all set to contribute to the festivities with these awesome gifts.

To outmatch the actual gusto that surrounds Ganesh Chaturthi and reciprocates the celebratory mood, Indiagift has come up with an astounding range of online gift to celebrate this auspicious occasion. Based in Gurgaon, this online gifting site caters to hearts desired everywhere with its delivery network that covers more than 1000 cities. With a ready batch of gifts that are handpicked by gifting experts keeping your occasions and relations in mind, Indiagift is all set to conquer the gifting platform in India. For the upcoming celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesh, the website’s recent stint involves Ganesh Chaturthi gifts that can be bought online and delivered to different parts of India. Commemorating the occasion are both traditional and trendy gifts which will add a certain ring to your celebrations.


With Ganesh idols being the highlight of the occasion which can range from life-sized ones to small figurines that are worshipped with much reverence and awe you can even send Ganesh idols online. However, due to certain reservations regarding the environment, you can now send eco-friendly Ganesh idols online for Ganesh Chaturthi from Indiagift. These eco-friendly idols are made from eco-friendly products with no artificial dyes or material and are perfect to honor the traditions and environment. Thus, customers can buy Ganesh figurines in different sizes, color, and types and even pair it with other presents like cakes and flowers. With Indiagift at the helm to assist you in your Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, you can send gifts online with cake from Australia to India. As this festival paves the way for you to honor your traditions with the people you cherish, each of these presents from Indiagift is equipped to overcome any hurdle that may otherwise limit you from sending your love.

source - https://www.openpr.com/news/1828538/ganesh-chaturthi-gifts-from-indiagift-to-add-a-certain-ring

7 Unique and Impressive Birthday Gifts for Boyfriend to Buy Online

Boyfriend’s birthday is one of the most special and awaited day of the year for any girlfriend. You desperately want to turn the day into most special and memorable one for your dearest boyfriend, isn’t it? Well Giftalove.com, Indians most preferred and renowned online gifts store understands such emotions and has thus, created an exceptionally amazing range of Birthday Gifts for Boyfriend which you can explore to find that perfect token of love which can leave him spellbound and help you win his heart on his birthday.

In the exclusive yet very extensive range of Birthday Gifts for Boyfriend at Giftalove.com, you are sure to find most impressive choices for gifts. The team of gifting experts of the portal has created the range keeping in tune to the latest gifting trends. Also, you can find many thoughtful and unique gift options online at the portal that are hard to find anywhere else.

However, you want some best suggestions of Birthday Gifts for Boyfriend then here we go with few Birthday gifts ideas that you can make choice for to shop online at Giftalove.com, such as:

When you simply desire to make your boyfriend’s birthday a special one then this is the gift basket you must choose to gift him on this birthday. He will definitely love to relish the assorted chocolates, will keep the little cute teddy as your remembrance and will definitely love to smell good every time with the perfume of the basket hamper.

Happy Birthday Choco Cake: To Make the Day Memorable!!

How can you plan to celebrate your boyfriend’s birthday without a cake? Well when you cannot then you must make choice for this tantalizing Choco Cake available at GiftaLove in the exclusive Birthday Gifts for Boyfriend range. You can even order birthday cake online with a gift from GiftaLove.com! Also, there are plenty of other Birthday cakes available online at the portal to shop online. All you need is to choose the best one to him that wonderful and much expected Birthday cake surprise.

Oats Cookies Green Tea and Mug in a Box: For Health Conscious Boyfriend!!

If you discovered that your boyfriend is quite health conscious then girls this is the best thing to show some love and concern to him on his birthday this year. This hampers of Oats sachets with green tea packets and an attractive coffee mug will definitely impress him a lot.

Police Pure Perfume for Him with Complimentary Love Card: To Impress Him!!

To simply win heart of your dearest boyfriend, you simply need to make choice for this wonderful gift combo. This will offer him a branded perfume to use and smell awesome always and a love card to wish him Happy Birthday with any love message on it. Therefore, it’s a perfect gift to impress your Mr. Right on his birthday.

Polyester Tie, Cufflinks and Handkerchief: For Workaholic Boyfriend!! 

If your boyfriend is quite workaholic in nature then dear gifting something relevant to this will definitely leave him spellbound and happy off course! So find this as the perfect Birthday gifts idea for impressing your workaholic boyfriend. No wonder he will love to wear and flaunt the tie and cufflink set with matching handkerchief during his formal meets and official celebrations.

Imported Chocolates with Dry Fruit Basket: For Foodie Boyfriend!!

Boyfriend of yours is dam foodie then why to look for something else then hamper of delectable eateries like this one. On this birthday just bring that cheerful smile on his face by gifting this wonderful imported chocolates with dry fruits basket hamper and show him some love and care which he deserves the most from your side on his birthday.

Shaving Pouch with Yardley Body Spray and Powder: A Useful Token of Love!!

Are you bored of his beard look or if Mr. Right of yours does not prefer grooming his looks and personality quite often? Well if any of those is your situation with you then her we have something for you. This exclusive gift hampers of shaving essentials like a shaving cream, shaving brush, razor, after shave lotion with men’s talc and body perfume will definitely give him a reason to groom up a bit and look awesome.

Birthday is the most special and awaited day of the year of course. So, leave no stone unturned to make this day most special one for your dearest boyfriend with that perfect Birthday gift. Explore Giftalove.com and its exclusive catalogue of Birthday gifts for Boyfriend that will offer you such amazing and myriad of impressive gifts online to buy at amazing price point too. Well you can also avail the facility to send gifts online to boyfriend residing miles away in India.

source - https://udaipurtimes.com/business-udaipur/7-unique-and-impressive-birthday-gifts-for-boyfriend-to-buy/c74416-w2859-cid112732-s10709.htm