With the coronavirus second wave putting pressure on Australia's economic recovery, a number of companies may be forced to hold back on dividend payments in the short term
As a result, if you're looking for dividend payments in the near term, then you might want to take a look at the safe and strong ASX dividend shares listed below.
Here's why I would buy them for income:
Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)
The first safe and strong dividend share to consider buying is Coles. I think the supermarket giant is one of the best options for income investors due to its invaluable defensive qualities. These have been on display for all to see during 2020. At a time when the pandemic is causing many companies to defer or cancel dividends, Coles looks well-positioned to continue growing its dividend.
Beyond the pandemic I believe this positive form can continue thanks to its solid growth prospects, expansion opportunities, and its focus on automation. Coles' current dividend policy aims to pay out between 80% and 90% of its earnings to shareholders. Based on this and the current Coles share price, I estimate that it currently offers investors a fully franked ~3.3% FY 2021 dividend.
Telstra Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLS)
Another safe and strong ASX dividend share to consider buying is Telstra. As with Coles, I think its defensive qualities are one of the main reasons to invest in its shares. These have also been on display during the pandemic, with Telstra able to reaffirm its guidance for FY 2020. Another reason to invest is its T22 strategy. This strategy is cutting costs materially and making Telstra a simpler and more efficient business. Combined with the easing NBN headwind, I believe a return to growth could be on the horizon in the coming years.
Until then, I'm confident Telstra's 16 cents per share dividend is sustainable from its current free cash flows. Based on the current Telstra share price, this equates to a fully franked 4.7% yield. Incidentally, we won't have long to wait to see if Telstra pays a 16 cents per share dividend in FY 2020. It is due to release its results on Thursday morning.
