A Dividend Dynasty: California Water Utility’s 71-Year Growth Streak Faces Crucial Test

While technology stocks experience volatility, a California-based water utility continues its remarkable financial achievement. American States Water has now increased its dividend for 71 consecutive years—a record that overshadows even the most established tech giants. The pressing question for investors is whether this extraordinary track record can persist amid current market conditions.

The company's resilience faces immediate scrutiny as it prepares to release third-quarter 2025 results this Wednesday. Market analysts project earnings of $1.01 per share with revenue approximating $179 million. These expectations arrive following a disappointing previous quarter where the company fell short of both profit and sales forecasts.

In the second quarter, American States Water reported adjusted earnings of $0.87 per share, missing the $0.92 per share consensus estimate. Despite this setback, the utility demonstrated operational strengths through its regulated water and electricity segments. Recently approved rate increases from California regulators for the 2025-2027 period have provided these divisions with predictable revenue streams and improved earnings potential.

Should investors sell immediately? Or is it worth buying American States Water?

Unmatched Dividend Consistency in Modern Markets

The company's board recently authorized its 358th consecutive quarterly dividend payment. This commitment to shareholder returns is further highlighted by an 8.5% average annual dividend growth rate over the past five years, demonstrating a stability rarely seen in today's financial markets.

For the full 2025 fiscal year, research analysts forecast earnings of $3.28 per share, representing modest year-over-year growth of 3.5%. The coming days will reveal whether this dividend aristocrat can extend its legendary performance record or if, after seventy-one years, the company might face challenges maintaining its unprecedented growth pattern.