Dividend stocks to double up on

What happened: Equinor ASA (EQNR) affirmed plans on June 16 to double its 2026 share buyback program to $3 billion, while Walmart, a Dividend King, saw its stock price recently decline despite being a reliable dividend payer. Meanwhile, dividend stocks like AbbVie, Coca-Cola, and Cisco Systems have shown strong performance, with AbbVie posting 12% Q1 revenue growth and Coca-Cola raising full-year EPS guidance.

Market impact: Energy and dividend-focused investors are attracted to EQNR's increased share buyback program, while value investors may see Walmart's dip as a 'buy-the-dip' opportunity. The broader market's interest in dividend stocks remains high, with companies like AbbVie, Coca-Cola, and Cisco Systems drawing attention due to their strong performance and dividend yields.

What to watch next: Investors should monitor EQNR's share price reaction to its increased buyback program and Walmart's earnings report, scheduled for August 15, to gauge the company's performance and dividend sustainability. Additionally, keep an eye on Cisco Systems' earnings on August 17, which could provide further insights into the tech sector's dividend prospects.