AGNC Investment has a 12% dividend yield, but its dividend has been trending lower for over a decade.

The dividend histories of these high-yielding stocks can teach us a lot.

August's top monthly pay (MoPay) dividend equities offer yields up to 19.25% and projected net gains of 13.01% to 92.64% by 2027. Analyst estimates for MoPay stocks show an average net gain of 32.65% with risk/volatility 3% below the market, highlighting contrarian opportunities. Fifty-seven MoPay equities were screened for positive returns and yields above 9%, with 21 identified as ‘IDEAL' for safer dividends and strong free cash flow.

The Dividend Harvesting Portfolio has achieved a 45.78% ROI, growing annualized income from $7.44 to $3,238.12 over 285 weeks. AI infrastructure buildout is accelerating, with major financing secured and longer asset utilization, undermining bearish depreciation arguments. Portfolio allocation emphasizes income generation, with 60.29% in REITs, ETFs, CEFs, and BDCs, yielding 79.48% of forward income.

Retirement income investors face a familiar tension in August 2026: the 10-year Treasury yield sits at 4.63%, in the 92.7th percentile of the past year, which raises the bar for every income-paying equity.

AGNC Investment preferred shares are currently overpriced, with none meeting my buy criteria at present valuations. AGNCO stands out for its 9.03% stripped yield and strong 4.993% floating spread, but remains about 2.5% above my buy target. Call risk is a critical factor. AGNCO is less exposed than AGNCN, but both present negative worst-cash-to-call scenarios at current prices.

AGNC Investment's 13.5% yielding monthly dividend is very tempting. The REIT has a higher risk profile compared to Ladder Capital.

BETHESDA, Md., Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- AGNC Investment Corp. (Nasdaq: AGNC) announced today that its Board of Directors has declared a cash dividend of $0.12 per share of common stock for August 2026.

AGNC's 13.2% dividend yield draws income investors, while liquidity, leverage and lower mortgage rates shape its sustainability.

If you are buying stocks with 10% yields, you have to make sure you appreciate the risks you are taking on.