Can small-cap dividend growers outperform again in 2014?

Solid results from a solid four-point strategy.

Rising dividends indicate a company's health, confident management and may be a better indicator of success than earnings alone.

Raising dividends year after year can be a good indicator of financial health and confident management.

Stepan Company (NYSE:SCL) hit a new 52-week high Friday as it is currently trading at $94.14, above its previous 52-week high of $94.11 with 36,071 shares traded as of 2:56 p.m. ET. Average volume has been 33,100 shares over the past 30 days.

Stepan Company (NYSE:SCL) hit a new 52-week high Thursday as it is currently trading at $93.85, above its previous 52-week high of $93.43 with 14,059 shares traded as of 11:45 a.m. ET. Average volume has been 31,400 shares over the past 30 days.

The combination of steady share-price appreciation and dividends is the optimal long-term investment.

Stepan Company (NYSE:SCL) hit a new 52-week high Tuesday as it is currently trading at $88.99, above its previous 52-week high of $88.96 with 17,522 shares traded as of 11:06 a.m. ET. Average volume has been 31,200 shares over the past 30 days.

Stepan Company (NYSE:SCL) hit a new 52-week high Tuesday as it is currently trading at $82.78, above its previous 52-week high of $82.75 with 22,126 shares traded as of 1:45 p.m. ET. Average volume has been 43,700 shares over the past 30 days.

Why are so many Americans having issues with their credit scores? Here's why -- and what to do if you need to build up your credit score.

The Democrats have just pulled off an unprecedented coup that will displease investors and financiers.

This may make it easier for you to sail with your kids.