American Express (NYSE: AXP) looks interesting heading into earnings on July 24.

For one, the company continues to attract high-spending premium customers, is returning significant amounts of cash to shareholders, and two, the stock remains below the highs it reached in December. Another key reason: Unlike many credit card companies that compete primarily on price, Amex focuses on premium consumers who tend to spend more and remain loyal to the brand. That strategy has helped the company deliver strong financial results even in an uncertain economic environment.

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American Express has also demonstrated a strong commitment to rewarding shareholders. Earlier this year, the company announced a 16% dividend increase, raising its quarterly payout to 95 cents per share, beginning with the first quarter of 2026. Dividend growth is especially attractive for retirement investors because it provides a growing stream of income while signaling management’s confidence in the company’s future earnings. 
During the first quarter alone, American Express returned $2.3 billion to investors. Approximately $700 million came through dividend payments, while another $1.7 billion was used to repurchase shares. 

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