Top Wall Street analysts prefer these dividend stocks for stable returns

Market Overview - Volatile markets are prompting investors to seek stability through dividend stocks, which offer both upside potential and solid income [1] - Recent U.S.-China tariff agreement provides some relief, but concerns about steep duties under the Trump administration persist [1] Chord Energy (CHRD) - Chord Energy is highlighted as a top dividend pick, reporting solid Q1 2025 results due to better-than-expected well performance and strong cost control [3][4] - The company returned 100% of its adjusted free cash flow to shareholders through share repurchases and declared a base dividend of $1.30 per share, resulting in a 6.8$125, citing attractive assets and strong free cash flow [5][8] - Chord Energy reduced its 2025 capital expenditure outlook by $30 million while maintaining production guidance, supported by operational efficiencies [6][7] Chevron (CVX) - Chevron reported Q1 results reflecting lower oil prices, with a slowdown in stock buybacks expected in Q2 2025 due to tariff issues and OPEC+ supply increases [9][12] - The company returned$6.9 billion to shareholders in Q1 through share repurchases of $3.9 billion and dividends of$3.0 billion, offering a 4.8% dividend yield [11] - Analyst Neil Mehta from Goldman Sachs trimmed the price target to $174 but reaffirmed a buy rating, highlighting strong free cash flow generation from major projects [12][13] EOG Resources (EOG) - EOG Resources reported strong Q1 2025 earnings, returning$1.3 billion to shareholders, including $538 million in dividends and$788 million in share repurchases [15][16] - The company declared a dividend of $0.975 per share, resulting in a 3.4$145, noting a 3% reduction in capital budget and a 0.6% decrease in organic oil production [17][20]