January Review / February Review, 2018

Relaxed Gremlin / Winter Gremlin here to discuss this past month.  I am grateful for the holidays and massive amount of birthdays to be over.  It is a good time to look forward to a new year, one where the little dude starts moving (and probably talking back), and one where our savings and financial side will be pressed to flourish.  My wife will not be making any meaningful income for at least 8 more months, which means that we need to be smarter than ever.  So far, we are off to a good start, and I predict we will only do better as the year progresses.  So far my personal spending has almost dropped off a cliff, and I will do my part to keep us marching towards financial freedom.

January:

This month I made one purchase, adding Dominion Energy (D) to my taxable account.

Last month I brought in a total of $74.41 in dividends ($65.41 taxable, $9 Roth, and $0 IRA).  This is an increase from last year ($67.05 total) by 10.9%.  My new investment in Leggett and Platt (LEG) pushed my dividend growth inspite of the General Electric (GE) dividend cut.

In terms of dividend increases, I realized* two this month from from Realty Income (O) and Disney (DIS).  The raises range from 0.2% to 11%.  These are first two increases of 2018, added to that is one cut of 50% from GE.

Next month I will realize four raises from O, Abbott Labs (ABT), AT & T (T), and Omega Healthcare (OHI).  The increases range from 1% to about 5%.

* I only count increases when realized, because until that money is delivered any statements or declarations are simply conjecture.

February:

The mortgage continues, so at least part of our 'rent' counts towards our house. Our debts currently outstrip our assets.  Outside of our house, we still have very low interest auto debt (1.9 and 1.5% for our cars).  Both my car and house are receiving slightly out-sized payments monthly.  We are effectively eliminating debt, while still building and assets.  Even with a new Gremlin in the lair. This is a long game, and I am nothing if not patient.

My next buy will likely be in March.

Next month should produce around $219 in dividends, which is a 0% YOY increase.  Several holdings are transitioning to paying in the 3rd month of the quarter from the second, which may impact my numbers on the surface, but not from an annual perspective.

My portfolio page is currently up to date.

Hope everyone has a great February.
- Dividend Gremlin
- Long all stock tickers mentioned