15 Low Profile Dividend Champions to Buy

6. Badger Meter, Inc. (NYSE:BMI)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 34

Badger Meter, Inc. (NYSE:BMI) is a Wisconsin-based company that provides water metering technology and flow solutions to its customers. As a North American leader in smart water solutions, the company stands out as an attractive investment opportunity, backed by its cutting-edge technologies and solid presence across the utility, commercial, and industrial sectors. Established in 1905, it has grown from manufacturing frost-proof water meters to providing a comprehensive range of advanced meters, valves, sensors, and software tools focused on monitoring and data analytics. In the past 12 months, the stock has delivered an over 31% return to shareholders.

Badger Meter, Inc. (NYSE:BMI) reported exceptional earnings in the first quarter of 2025. The company reported revenue of $222.2 million, up 13% from the same period last year. Operating earnings rose by 35% year-over-year, reaching $49.5 million, while operating profit margins improved by 360 basis points, climbing to 22.2% from 18.6%. Diluted earnings per share also saw strong growth, increasing 31% to $1.30 compared to $0.99 in the same quarter last year. In addition, the company finalized its acquisition of SmartCover on January 30, 2025.

Badger Meter, Inc. (NYSE:BMI) ended the quarter with $131.3 million available in cash and cash equivalents. Its operating cash flow came in at $33.02 million, growing from $21.4 million in the prior-year period. Due to this cash position, the company was able to raise its payouts for 32 consecutive years, which makes BMI one of the best Dividend Champions to invest in. It offers a quarterly dividend of $0.34 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.68%, as of April 17.