These 3 Stocks Are Beating the Market in 2026 and Just Announced Hefty Dividend Increases

Summary

Key PointsLevi Strauss, Ryder System, and Unum Group have all outperformed the S&P 500 Index in 2026 while recently raising their dividends significantly.Each company reported strong earnings, with Levi's raising guidance, Ryder boosting its adjusted EPS outlook, and Unum posting record Group Life earnings.All three stocks offer dividend yields above the S&P 500 average, supported by conservative payout ratios that suggest continued sustainability and growth potential. Despite being down as much as 7% through the first few months of the year, the S&P 500 Index has performed well in 2026. Overall, the index’s total return sits near 10%, which is approximately in line with its average return over a full year. Three stocks that recently raised their dividends are not only beating the S&P 500 this year, but also boast higher dividend yields than the index average. Using the SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (NYSEARCA: SPY) as a proxy, the index’s yield is only around 1%. These three names have yields solidly above that level, and after large increases, they continue to provide robust dividend sustainability. Levi’s Beats and Raises, Boasts Over 2.5% YieldThe iconic clothing and denim firm Levi Strauss & Co. (NYSE: LEVI) has put up a solid performance in 2026. The stock’s total return for the year is above 15%, easily beating out the S&P 500 Index. Although LEVI took a slight 2.2% tumble after its latest earnings report, the company largely validated prior gains with the print. Levi’s 8% revenue growth significantly outpaced estimates, driven by particularly strong 19% growth in its direct-to-consumer e-commerce channel. It beat on adjusted earnings per share (EPS) and raised full-year guidance on both sales and adjusted EPS for the second quarter in a row. Levi’s also announced a hefty 14.3% dividend increase, boosting its quarterly payment to 16 cents per share. The company plans to pay its next dividend on Aug. 5 to shareholders of record as of the July 22 close. Now, its forwar...