Gary, Indiana's decline mirrors the Midwest's industrial collapse, with abandoned factories and rising poverty. Offshoring and job losses fueled economic divides and political change. Re-shoring U.S. manufacturing faces hurdles like labor shortages, but tariffs and global risks are driving long-term opportunities in infrastructure and logistics. My stock picks target construction, energy, and transport sectors poised to benefit from America's industrial revival, offering steady growth potential.

I invest almost everything I earn into dividend growth stocks. They offer steady income, (potentially) market-beating returns, and help reduce volatility over time. While FIRE is about retiring early on a shoestring budget, I'm aiming higher. Fat FIRE means building enough passive income to retire in comfort, not just survival. To reach Fat FIRE, I focus on quality dividend stocks with solid yields and growth. I share two of my all-time favorites that help me stay on that path.

AM's Q1 earnings and revenues top estimates due to higher processing volumes and increased average fees realized across major segments.

Antero Midstream's free cash flow and earnings growth have exceeded expectations over time. Strategic acquisitions have enhanced profitability and operational volumes. They also lowered the capital budget over the years. Cash flow from operations is growing. The same goes for free cash flow.

One has grown its dividend for 48 consecutive quarters and just authorized a buyback of 7.5% of its outstanding shares. The other trades at a 17% discount to NAV and is backed by a legendary billionaire investor. Both yields are comfortably covered by cash flow and supported by strong balance sheets.

The 50/50 strategy blends the simplicity of ETFs with the customization of individual dividend stocks, optimizing returns while managing risks. This approach suits a wide range of investors, from beginners to experienced, aiming to balance quality dividend growth with exposure to long-term trends. Investing should be creative, like playing with Lego bricks, allowing for personalized portfolios that align with specific financial goals.

Antero Midstream expects roughly $1.1 billion in adjusted EBITDA in 2025, 5% above 2024 levels. This was also around 3% above my expectations, as it expects low-single digits throughput growth along with inflation adjustments to its fixed fees. Antero Midstream may generate $295 million in free cash flow after dividends.

DENVER , April 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Antero Midstream Corporation (NYSE: AM) ("Antero Midstream" or the "Company") today announced that the Board of Directors of Antero Midstream declared a cash dividend of $0.225 per share for the first quarter of 2025. The Company also repurchased approximately 1.7 million shares during the first quarter.

The "cash trap" isn't a trap at all. It's a strategic advantage. With trillions in money market funds, many investors are waiting for the right time to deploy capital. In volatile markets, a smart strategy is to buy the dip, especially for those holding cash reserves. Investors should focus on long-term growth, avoiding impulsive moves. Opportunistic plays, including resilient dividend stocks and investment-grade bonds, remain attractive. Even with market uncertainty, there are solid opportunities for growth.

Last week, I experienced my worst portfolio performance yet, dropping from a +7% return to -7%. Despite this, I'm still outperforming the market by 700 basis points. Though macroeconomic risks have increased, I believe the current volatility is temporary. I remain confident, with a sizable cash position, and continue to look for buying opportunities. In volatile markets, I avoid panic-selling and instead focus on acquiring quality stocks at discounted prices. This strategy aligns with my long-term dividend growth goals.