The stock market stumbled in early September as concerns about a slowing economy weighed on investors. With the S&P 500 down 4.2% for the month, many are looking for more stable investment options. One strategy gaining attention is focusing on dividend stocks, which offer consistent income along with potential for growth. Dividend-paying companies, especially those with a track record of growing their payouts, tend to perform well during periods of economic uncertainty. This is because these companies often have strong balance sheets and reliable cash flow, making them less vulnerable to market downturns. Why Dividend Growth Beats High Yield While high-yield dividend stocks may seem attractive, growth-focused dividend stocks could be a better bet. According to Jason Browne, president of Alexis Investment Partners, "Dividend growth is especially appealing when growth slows." He recommends focusing on companies that consistently increase their dividends rather than those of...