Monthly report: March 2026

March was another challenging month for equity markets, especially for investors with broad index exposure. Most major indices ended the month solidly in the red. The AEX GR declined by ‑5.1%, while the European STOXX 50 lost ‑7.4%. In the US, the damage was similar: the S&P 500 fell ‑7.8%, the Dow Jones Industrial Index ‑7.4%, and the global IWDA ETF dropped ‑4.9%. In short: this was a clear risk‑off month across regions and asset classes.

This market weakness fits well with the broader narrative we’ve been seeing recently. According to Reuters (March 30, 2026), dividend‑focused funds are attracting strong inflows as investors look for stability and income amid geopolitical tensions and rising volatility (U.S. Dividend Funds Draw Strong Flows). In that context, price pressure comes as no surprise—and neither does increased interest in dividends.

Portfolio price movements: winners and losers

Within my own portfolio, price movements reflected this tough environment. The top three gainers in March were:

• Shell: +14%
• Exxon Mobil (XOM): +10%
• APD: +5%

Energy clearly remained a bright spot, supported by higher oil prices and ongoing geopolitical risk.

On the other end of the spectrum, the three biggest losers were:

• UNA: ‑20%
• BIPC: ‑20%
• MPT: ‑18%

These declines look painful in isolation, but they need to be viewed in the context of the entire portfolio and the broader market sell‑off.

Out of 37 holdings, only 6 finished the month higher, versus 31 decliners. That gives a winners/losers ratio of 0.2, with an average gain of +4.3% for winners and an average loss of ‑7.7% for losers. This skew might feel uncomfortable, but it closely mirrors what happened in the indices. The portfolio did not “fail” this month—it simply moved in line with a broadly declining market, while still showing pockets of resilience.

More importantly, this kind of distribution is precisely why diversification and income matter. Short‑term price volatility is temporary; cash flow is not.

Dividend income: steady progress

The most encouraging part of the March report is dividend income. On a constant FX basis, total monthly income increased from €548 to €626, a +14.2% year‑over‑year improvement. Even after FX effects and taxes, net income still rose by +7.9% compared to March last year.

The important reasons for the dividend growth are:

• Companies such as AFL, CMI, BLK and CNI continued their cycle of steady dividend increases, which compounds nicely over time, even in weak market conditions.
• New addition to the portfolio NEE delivered a nice first dividend of almost $25. I purchased shares back in april and september last year.
• Dividends from Visa (V) and BIPC got boosted because of share purchases during the last year, in addition to their regular dividend increases.

That’s the real win: higher income despite lower prices. I’ll end with a piece of timeless wisdom that feels especially relevant this month:

“The stock market is a device for transferring money from the impatient to the patient.” — Warren Buffett

And for dividend investors, patience doesn’t just wait—it pays.

Monthly report: February 2026

February brought a mixed picture for global markets. European equities continued their positive momentum, while U.S. markets showed some weakness toward the end of the month. The AEX Gross Return Index rose +2.0%, and the Euro Stoxx 50 gained +2.2%, indicating continued strength in European markets. Global equities, represented by IWDA, were mostly flat with a modest +0.1% increase.

In contrast, U.S. indices struggled slightly. The Dow Jones Total Return declined –0.7%, while the S&P 500 fell –1.4% during the month. While these moves are not dramatic, they show that market performance remains uneven across regions. For long-term dividend investors, however, short-term index fluctuations are mostly background noise compared to the steady flow of dividend income.

Portfolio Movers – Top Gainers and Losers

Within my own portfolio, there were several notable price movements. The three biggest gainers in February were:

• AD (+25%) – Ahold Delhaize had an excellent month, leading the portfolio with a strong rebound. Defensive consumer staples companies can sometimes surprise with strong moves when market sentiment shifts.

• DE (+18%) – Deere delivered an impressive gain, likely supported by optimism around the agricultural and industrial sectors.

• BHP (+18%) – The mining giant benefited from stronger commodity sentiment and improving demand expectations.

On the other side of the spectrum, the three biggest losers were:

• ADP (–13%) – Automatic Data Processing declined the most this month, likely reflecting short-term market rotation rather than fundamental changes.

• TROW (–11%) – T. Rowe Price experienced a significant pullback, as asset managers can be sensitive to market volatility.

• TXN (–6%) – Texas Instruments fell modestly, possibly due to continued uncertainty around the semiconductor cycle.

Despite these declines, most movements appear to be normal market fluctuations rather than major fundamental changes.

Looking at the broader picture, February actually saw a clear majority of winners in my portfolio. Roughly two-thirds of the holdings posted gains, while the remaining positions ended the month lower. This positive ratio of winners versus losers is encouraging, especially considering the mixed performance of global indices.

The portfolio therefore slightly outperformed the general market direction in terms of individual stock performance. While U.S. indices declined modestly, many of my holdings—particularly in defensive sectors, industrials, and commodities—managed to post solid gains. This highlights the benefit of diversification across sectors and geographies within a dividend-focused portfolio.

Dividend Income – Year-over-Year Comparison

The most striking change in February is the sharp increase in dividend income compared to last year. In February 2026, total dividends after tax reached €6,323, compared to €203 in February 2025. At first glance, this represents a massive +3008.8% increase year over year.

However, this large jump is primarily driven by a one-time dividend from Brink, which accounted for the majority of the income this month. Without that payment, the comparison would look far more modest.

Looking at the recurring dividends, the USD subtotal increased from $235 to $239, representing 1.6% growth. This steady increase reflects the gradual dividend growth from companies like BMY, KMI, AOS, and others in the portfolio.

Final Thought

Dividend investing is often less about dramatic market moves and more about steady progress over time. As the legendary investor John D. Rockefeller once said:

“Do you know the only thing that gives me pleasure? It’s to see my dividends coming in.”

Month after month, that steady stream of income continues to grow—one dividend at a time.

Monthly report: January 2026

The new year started on a positive note for global markets. January delivered solid gains across most major indices, setting a constructive tone for 2026. European markets led the way, with the AEX rising +3.5% and the Euro Stoxx 50 gaining +1.7%. Global equities also moved higher, as IWDA advanced +0.8% over the month.

In the United States, performance was steady rather than spectacular. The Dow Jones Total Return increased +1.1%, while the S&P 500 finished January up +1.2%. Overall, it was a healthy start to the year, driven by optimism around earnings, easing inflation concerns, and a general “risk-on” sentiment in equity markets.

Portfolio Movers – Top Gainers and Losers

Against this favorable backdrop, my portfolio saw some strong individual stock movements. The three biggest gainers in January were:

• ASML (+23%) – A very strong start to the year for ASML, benefiting from renewed confidence in the semiconductor cycle and AI-related demand.
• TXN (+22%) – Texas Instruments rebounded sharply, likely reflecting improving sentiment around industrial semiconductors.
• MPWR (+20%) – Monolithic Power Systems delivered an impressive rally, recovering from earlier weakness as growth expectations improved.

On the downside, the three weakest performers were:

• V (–7%) – Visa pulled back modestly after a strong prior period, likely due to short-term profit-taking rather than any fundamental deterioration.
• AD (–5%) – Ahold Delhaize declined slightly during the month, a relatively normal move for a defensive consumer-staples stock after a period of stability.
• CNI (–4%) – Canadian National Railway saw a mild correction, typical for a defensive, dividend-focused name after a strong run.

These moves highlight how sector momentum—especially in semiconductors—played a major role this month.

January showed a clear skew toward winners in my portfolio. A large majority of holdings posted positive monthly returns, with several double-digit gainers. Compared to the general markets, which delivered solid but relatively modest gains, the portfolio exhibited higher volatility but also stronger upside in certain positions.

For a dividend investor, this is a reminder that price fluctuations are secondary. While it’s nice to see capital appreciation, the portfolio’s main job is to keep producing reliable income—regardless of short-term market swings.

Dividend Income – Year-over-Year Comparison

Dividend income in January looks dramatically lower compared to last year at first glance. Total income dropped from €8,168 after tax in January 2025 to €170 in January 2026, a decline of –97.9%. However, this comparison is heavily distorted by a the annual dividend from Brink received in January last year, which did not repeat in 2026. I expect to receive dividends this year, but it will be somewhat further down the road due to our companies restructuring last year. 

Looking at the recurring income instead, the picture is much healthier. The USD dividend subtotal increased by 6.4% year over year, reflecting steady dividend growth from core holdings like MRK, PM, WMT, and ADP. This underlying growth is what really matters for long-term dividend investors.

Final Thought

To close, a simple reminder that fits moments like these perfectly:

“Dividends turn volatility into patience, and patience into progress.”

January was a strong start to the year—both for markets and for the long-term dividend journey ahead.

Recent Buy: Automatic Data Processing (ADP)

I recently added to my position in Automatic Data Processing (ADP) with the purchase of 7 shares at around $260 per share. ADP is a company I’m happy to continue building over time given its exceptional dividend track record and highly durable business model.

This was not a new position for me. I first initiated my ADP holding in June 2024, when I purchased 8 shares. That initial buy was about getting exposure to one of the highest-quality dividend growth companies in the market, and this recent purchase builds on that foundation.

My total ADP position now stands at 15 shares.

Business Performance Since My First Purchase

Since my initial buy in mid-2024, ADP has continued to execute well operationally and strategically.

The company has benefited from:

• Ongoing demand for payroll and human capital management (HCM) services, supported by high client retention and recurring revenue.

• Growth in employer services and PEO offerings, which continue to expand margins over time.

• Product and platform enhancements, including increased use of data analytics, automation, and AI-driven tools to improve client efficiency and stickiness.

• Strategic acquisitions, such as the WorkForce Software deal, which strengthened ADP’s workforce management capabilities and supported long-term growth expectations.

ADP’s business model remains highly resilient, with strong free cash flow generation across economic cycles — a key reason it remains a core dividend holding for me.

Dividend Growth Update

Dividend growth is the main reason I own ADP.

Since my first purchase in 2024, ADP has continued its long-standing tradition of annual dividend increases. The quarterly dividend has risen from $1.54 per share at the time of my initial purchase to $1.70 per share, bringing the annual dividend to $6.80 per share.

That represents an increase of 10%, since I first bought the stock.

ADP has now raised its dividend for more than 50 consecutive years, firmly placing it among the elite dividend growth companies. This consistency is exactly what I look for when building long-term income streams.

Valuation Thoughts

At around $260 per share, ADP is not a bargain-basement stock, but quality rarely is. At this price, the stock offers:

• A dividend yield in the mid-2% range

• Reliable mid-single-digit to high-single-digit dividend growth

• Exceptional business stability and predictability

For a Dividend King with ADP’s track record, this valuation feels reasonable for long-term investors focused on income growth rather than short-term price movements.

Impact on My Dividend Income

This purchase increases my forward annual dividend income from ADP by approximately $47.60 (7 shares × $6.80).

With 15 shares total, ADP now contributes over $100 per year in dividend income to my portfolio — income that I fully expect to continue growing year after year.

Final Thoughts

Adding to ADP was an easy decision. The company continues to deliver steady earnings growth, consistent dividend increases, and strong cash flow generation. While the stock may not always look cheap, its reliability and income growth make it a cornerstone holding for a dividend-focused portfolio.

I’m happy to keep accumulating shares over time and letting compounding do the heavy lifting.

Monthly Report: December 2025

December ended the year on a positive note for global markets. After the mixed performance earlier in the autumn, equities broadly moved higher across regions. European markets performed well, with the AEX Gross Return Index rising +0.4% and the Euro Stoxx 50 gaining a solid +2.3%. Global equities followed suit, as IWDA increased +0.7% over the month.

The strength was even more pronounced in the United States. The Dow Jones Total Return climbed +2.4%, while the S&P 500 advanced +1.2%. Overall, December was a constructive month, supported by year-end optimism, easing financial conditions, and expectations for a more stable macro environment going into 2026.

Portfolio Movers – Top Gainers and Losers

My portfolio reflected the positive market backdrop, although individual stock movements varied widely. The three strongest performers in December were:

• BMY (+10%) – Bristol Myers Squibb rebounded strongly, likely helped by renewed confidence in its pipeline and valuation support.
• BHP (+10%) – The mining giant benefited from higher commodity prices and improving sentiment toward cyclicals.
• V (+6%) – Visa delivered a solid month, continuing to show resilience as a high-quality compounder in the financial sector.

On the downside, the three biggest decliners were:

• MPW (–11%) – The weakest performer this month, reflecting ongoing concerns around leverage and the healthcare REIT space.
• HASI (–8%) – Renewable infrastructure stocks remained under pressure, despite their long-term income appeal.
• MDT (–7%) – Medtronic pulled back after previous strength, possibly due to profit-taking toward year-end.

These moves underline how even in rising markets, individual stocks can behave very differently depending on sector dynamics and company-specific news.

Despite a few notable laggards, the overall ratio of winners versus losers was reasonably balanced, with a slight tilt toward positive performers. Many holdings posted modest gains of 1–3%, which may not grab headlines but are perfectly acceptable for a dividend-focused portfolio.

Compared to the broader indices—which all finished firmly positive—my portfolio showed more dispersion but remained well aligned with the market’s direction. This reinforces an important point: dividend investing is not about winning every month, but about steady participation in market growth while collecting income along the way.

Dividend Income – Year-over-Year Growth

December also delivered encouraging news on the income front. Total dividends grew from €446 in December 2024 to €455 in December 2025, representing a +2.1% year-over-year increase after tax. On a constant FX basis, income rose even more strongly, highlighting healthy underlying dividend growth across the portfolio.

An earlier purchase of BIPC shares is the reason for the big increase in dividend income. 

Another reason for the dividend income growth is a new position in Next Era Energy (NEE). Earlier in April and September I purchased shares in this company.

Dividend income from Visa increased compared to last year primarily because I recently bought more shares as discussed in my recent buy post from December. 

Currency effects continue to influence reported results, but the long-term trend remains intact: dividends are growing, and that growth compounds over time.

Final Thought

To close the year, a simple reminder that fits dividend investing perfectly:

“Price is what you pay, income is what you keep.”

December was a fitting end to the year—solid markets, growing dividends, and another step forward on the long journey toward financial independence.

Monthly report: November 2025

November turned out to be a relatively quiet month for global markets, with most major indices drifting slightly lower. Europe in particular showed some weakness: the AEX Gross Return Index slipped –2.1%, while the broader European index SX5E dipped –0.2%. Global equities reflected a similar muted tone, with IWDA declining –0.9%.

Across the Atlantic, the picture was mixed. The Dow Jones Total Return inched up by +0.1%, while the S&P 500 fell –0.6%. In short, markets were neither euphoric nor panicked—just mildly negative to flat. For dividend investors like me, that usually means a good time to monitor valuations rather than chase momentum.

Portfolio Movers – Top Gainers and Losers

While the overall markets were subdued, my portfolio saw a much broader spread of returns. The three strongest performers in November were:

• MRK (+27%) – A standout month driven by strong earnings sentiment and continued confidence in its pharma pipeline.
• HASI (+22%) – The sustainable infrastructure REIT rebounded sharply, benefiting from stabilizing interest-rate expectations.
• MDT (+17%) – Medtronic posted a solid recovery, likely supported by improving medical device demand and positive guidance.

On the other side, the three biggest laggards were:

• MPWR (-8%) - The weakest performer this month, likely due to short-term volatility in the semiconductor sector.
• BEPC (–6%) – Renewable energy names struggled again, pressured by bond yields and slower sector momentum.
• ASML (–2%) – A modest pullback after a strong prior run, in line with the weakness seen in European markets overall.

These movements reflect a clear theme: healthcare and infrastructure led, while the chip sector lagged. One of the more encouraging aspects of this month was the ratio of winners to losers in my portfolio. The list contains more names with positive price changes than negative ones—around two-thirds of holdings posted gains. That’s a much stronger showing than the global indices, which mostly hovered around zero or slightly negative.

This tells me two things:

• My portfolio composition is currently benefiting from sector rotation, especially toward healthcare and quality dividend names.
• Stock-specific fundamentals mattered more than broad index performance this month. Even while Europe and global markets dipped, many of my holdings still posted meaningful gains.

For dividend investors, this is a reminder that a diversified, long-term portfolio doesn’t always move in lockstep with the benchmarks—and that’s a good thing.

Dividend Income – Year-over-Year Update

Looking at income, November 2025 delivered €233 in dividends at constant FX, a 3.2% increase compared to last year. However, due to currency effects, the actual income received was €220, which is –4.9% lower year-over-year. While the currency-driven decline isn’t ideal, the underlying dividend growth is what matters most. The fact that my holdings collectively raised their payouts reinforces the long-term compounding engine of the portfolio.

Final Thought

To close, here’s a favorite bit of dividend-investing wisdom:

“Dividends are the market’s way of paying you to wait.”

And November was another quiet but steady reminder of exactly that.

Adding to My Visa Position: A Long-Term Bet on a Market Giant

On November 26th, I made my second purchase of Visa shares—adding 5 shares at $335 each. My first investment in Visa dates back to November 2021, when I bought 10 shares at around $195. Looking back, that initial purchase has performed extremely well. Strong earnings growth, relentless share repurchases, and about 18% annual dividend growth have all combined to deliver a terrific total return over the past few years.

Despite the run-up in price since 2021, I’ve been wanting to increase my Visa position for a while. Visa never really looks “cheap,” and maybe that’s simply the premium you pay for a business that dominates global payments and continues to grow even at its massive scale. With a current price-to-earnings ratio of around 32x, the stock is certainly not a bargain on paper—but it’s also trading closer to its 52-week low than its high, which gave me enough confidence to buy a bit more.

What ultimately pushed me to make this second purchase is the long-term nature of Visa’s business. Its model benefits from global spending growth, digital payment adoption, and network effects that only strengthen over time. Even though the stock has climbed over the past few years, I still expect meaningful growth ahead.

For me, adding these 5 shares wasn’t about timing the market—it was about continuing to build a position in a company I believe will keep compounding value for many years to come.