Investors are starting to pay attention to yield signs these days, but not the ones you see on the road. Income-generating stocks may not have the same appeal as they used to, with safer money market funds often yielding better than 5% right now, but it wouldn't surprise anyone if folks begin bidding up dividend-paying companies as soon as short-term rates start falling.

Pesky inflation data is likely delaying the Fed's plans to cut rates, but when it does happen, you're going to find dividend stocks -- especially ones that historically push up their payouts -- more inviting. Even if you have a modest amount of money to put to work, Costco Wholesale (NASDAQ: COST), Disney (NYSE: DIS), and Cracker Barrel Old Country Stores (NASDAQ: CBRL) are worth investigating. Let's see why these could be the smartest dividend stocks to buy with your next $400 investment.

You know Costco, even if you have never set foot in any of its warehouse clubs. Costco is a combination of mesmerizing extremes, but none more tantalizing than its low prices and long lines. Good luck finding another retailer or even a grocery store with a gross margin as low as Costco's 12.6%.

Continue reading

Source Fool.com