In this period of market uncertainty and volatility, many investors are flocking to quality and stability -- companies that are built to weather the macroeconomic storm. They are also seeking out stocks that generate solid income via dividends, because good dividend stocks can not only provide you with income, but the dividends can also be reinvested to boost a stock's total return. And often, good dividend stocks are associated with high-quality, stable companies that are built for the long haul.

Here are three stocks that have been generating great dividends for a long time and should continue to over the long haul.

Two of my selections are banks because banks are a good place to invest right now, for dividends or otherwise. And US Bancorp (NYSE: USB) (like my other bank pick) is one of the most efficient banks in the country, with an efficiency ratio of 57.5%, which is lower than the major banks. In simple terms, the efficiency ratio tallies a bank's operating costs divided by its net revenue and presents the sum as a percentage. The lower the percentage, the better.

Continue reading

Source Fool.com