12 Best Dividend Stocks Under $30

5. Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:ABR)

Share Price as of the Close of January 30: $13.43

Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:ABR) is an American real estate investment trust company that invests in a diversified portfolio of finance assets in the multifamily and commercial real estate markets. In 2024, the company faced difficulties as federal prosecutors and the FBI initiated an investigation into its commercial mortgage REIT. The probe focused on its lending practices and the accuracy of its disclosures regarding loan portfolio performance. In response, the company reaffirmed its commitment to full cooperation with authorities and expressed confidence in its adherence to regulatory standards.

Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:ABR) effectively reassured investors and regained their confidence through its statement. With an industry presence dating back to 2003, the company has a demonstrated ability to navigate major economic disruptions, including the Great Financial Crisis, the 2020 pandemic, and the inflation-driven Federal Reserve rate hikes of 2023. The company has consistently paid dividends to shareholders since 2012, which makes it one of the best dividend stocks on our list.

Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:ABR)’s cash position also makes it a strong dividend payer. The company ended the quarter with approximately $600 million in cash and liquidity, supported by a trailing twelve-month operating cash flow of $492 million.

Insider Monkey’s database of Q3 2024 indicated that 16 hedge funds owned stakes in Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:ABR), up from 12 in the previous quarter. The total value of these stakes is over $68.2 million. With over 2.4 million shares, Omega Advisors was the company’s leading stakeholder in Q3.