JNJ and Linde Earnings Ahead: Analysts Back Dividend Aristocrats with Strong Buy Ratings

Two top dividend aristocrats, Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) and Linde (LIN), are garnering attention from analysts ahead of their Q3 2026 earnings reports in late October. Both companies have consistently raised their dividends for at least 25 years, making them prized by investors seeking regular income.

JNJ, the world's largest pharma company by revenue, has seen its shares rally by 33% year-to-date. However, LIN offers a bigger upside potential of 19%. JNJ is known for blockbuster treatments such as Stelara and Darzalex, while LIN processes atmospheric gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and argon, and provides ultra-low-temperature cooling systems.

The companies' dividend payout ratios are 60.73% for JNJ and 40.03% for LIN. Their last dividend issuances were $1.34 per share for JNJ and $1.60 per share for LIN, with respective dividend yields of 1.93% and 1.30%. LIN's average price target is $568.33, indicating a 19% upside potential.

Both companies will report their Q3 2026 earnings on October 20 (JNJ) and October 22 (LIN).