Dividend devotee: I'd buy Rio Tinto shares for $2,000 of monthly passive income

Here's how I'd aim to receive $24,000 of dividends each year from the iron ore giant.

| More on:
A man in his 30s holds his laptop and operates it with his other hand as he has a look of pleasant surprise on his face as though he is learning something new or finding hidden value in something on the screen.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Key points

  • Rio Tinto offers a 6.2% trailing dividend yield at its current share price – $113.91
  • At that rate, a 3,380-strong parcel of the iron ore giant's stock could provide $24,000 of annual passive income
  • I'd use the power of compounding to build such a holding in Rio Tinto

Interested in bolstering your passive income portfolio with just one S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX XJO) dividend share? Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) could be worth considering.

The iron ore giant currently offers a notable 6.2% dividend yield. That means the stock could be capable of paying out $2,000 a month with a smaller initial investment than many of its ASX 200 peers require.

Here's how I'd aim to build a strong monthly passive income by investing in high-yielding Rio Tinto shares.

I'd buy Rio Tinto shares for $2,000 of monthly passive income

Passive income is just that – income that comes without any active work on your part. I don't know many people who would turn down the chance to earn $2,000 each month for doing nothing.

And that's what's on offer to those holding enough shares in Rio Tinto.

Each of the iron ore favourite's securities has offered $7.10 of dividends over the last 12 months.

At that rate, a 3,380-strong parcel of the ASX 200 giant's stock could bring in $24,000 of passive income annually.

That's before considering potential tax benefits born from the franking credits accompanying the payouts or dividend growth, like that forecasted by Goldman Sachs.

However, Rio Tinto shares don't necessarily come cheap. They're currently trading for around $113.91 apiece.

Thus, my desired 3,380 shares would come with an approximate price tag of $385,000. That's not exactly pocket change. Fortunately, I believe there's a way to lessen the outright cost.

Making the most of compounding

If my goal was to command a parcel of 3,380 Rio Tinto shares but I didn't have quite enough cash, I would work to invest a smaller amount each week and employ the company's dividend reinvestment plan (DRP).

That would allow me to use any dividends I receive to buy more shares without paying a commission. Meanwhile, I would be consistently bolstering my holding on the market.

Thus, my investment could compound over the coming years until it reaches my goal.

Though, it's worth remembering that past performance doesn't indicate future performance. Further, as a materials company, Rio Tinto's earnings – and, as an extension, its dividends – tend to fluctuate alongside commodity prices.

Motley Fool contributor Brooke Cooper has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Dividend Investing

Smiling woman holding Australian dollar notes in each hand, symbolising dividends.
Dividend Investing

2 ASX passive income shares paying 8% and 13% yields

I think both these high yielding ASX dividend stocks offer long-term passive income potential.

Read more »

A woman in hammock with headphones on enjoying life which symbolises passive income.
Dividend Investing

After passive income? Check out these ASX 200 dividend shares

ASX dividend shares can provide a reliable source of passive income

Read more »

Australian notes and coins symbolising dividends.
Materials Shares

BHP is paying $2.30 per share in dividends. Time to buy the stock?

Do analysts think the Big Australian is a buy?

Read more »

A couple sits in their lounge room with a large piggy bank on the coffee table. They smile while the male partner feeds some money into the slot while the female partner looks on with an iPad style device in her hands as though they are budgeting.
Dividend Investing

3 ASX dividend shares named as buys for income investors

Analysts think income investors should be snapping up these stocks.

Read more »

ATM with Australian hundred dollar notes hanging out.
Dividend Investing

Buy these ASX stocks for 6% to 8% dividend yields

Big dividend yields are expected from these shares according to analysts.

Read more »

Accountant woman counting an Australian money and using calculator for calculating dividend yield.
Bank Shares

How much do you need to invest in NAB shares for $12,000 in annual dividends?

Enjoying $12,000 in annual dividend income is no easy feat...

Read more »

Hand holding Australian dollar (AUD) bills, symbolising ex dividend day. Passive income.
Dividend Investing

Here's the Rio Tinto dividend forecast through to 2028

Has the miner's dividend peaked or will it continue to grow?

Read more »

an older couple look happy as they sit at a laptop computer in their home.
Dividend Investing

Buy these ASX dividend shares for passive income

Analysts think these shares could be top options for income investors.

Read more »