Blue Chip DRiP Portfolio: March Dividend Income = A Silver Lining

Summary

• March brought more stock market madness and it doesn't look to end any time soon.  In fact, it's likely to get worse.  What am I doing about it?
• Sticking to the plan.  March dividend income was our best ever. We received $1955.05 from 32 different stocks. In addition, 2 dividend raises were announced.
• All-time dividends received are up to $12,876.86 since we began this portfolio in February 2019.
• We made 4 cash buys, 9 DRiPs, and no sales in February. These transactions add $224.93 annually, bringing our total forward estimated annual dividend income to $17,973.09.

This Too Shall Pass

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The volatility of the markets has become mind-numbing over the last month. Everyone has an opinion on the conflicting projections of the COVID-19 outbreak. All of the near-term and long-term, direct and indirect implications of this pandemic are truly vexing. Economic speculation and noise have reached a fever pitch, and the markets absolutely dread the uncertainty. How are prudent investors supposed to cope? Do nothing, stay ahead?

For the most part, I'm drowning out the wanna-be prophets while keeping the spidey senses activated. I'm hoarding more cash than normal, and proceeding with caution. But I am proceeding. I'm still putting in weekly buys and staying engaged. And if the brown goop hits the fan, I'll really jump in. I don't think we are there yet.

I'll tell you what I'm not doing. I'm not selling or trying to time this bear market. I'm not jumping for joy on any short-lived rallies. Some fine businesses are already suspending or cutting dividends and many more will be following suit. Although I'd never welcome it, it's no surprise either. Our brains cannot entertain negative and positive thoughts at the same time. So I'm consciously filling these times with enriching activities and family fun. I'm guessing if you're on Seeking Alpha and reading this article, you're ahead of most people. Times may be tough right now, but we've sure got it good compared to most. Just sayin'...

In upcoming months, as uncertainty transitions to the reality of weakened earnings, Mr. Market will likely cower in the corner even more. No matter. Stay in the game, even if you have to make adjustments. Many people, including myself and probably you, are out of work and we need to prioritize our limited financial resources during these times. But do whatever you can to not stand on

Analyst’s Disclosure:I am/we are long EVERY STOCK IN THIS ARTICLE. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

This is not stock advice. These are purely my opinions. I'm not a professional. Do your own research. Best of luck in your investing journey!