High Quality, High Yielders (MCD, PEP, CLX, PFE, DD)

Despite the run that the stock market has had in the last 6 months, there are still some very high quality companies offering very attractive yields. These are the kind of stocks that long-term conservative investors should be taking a very hard look at, as they should offer relatively safe, consistent returns going forward. Here is a look at five leading companies whose stocks all yield over 3% at current levels. McDonald's MCD - This is one of the most recognizable brands in the world, with an outstanding management team and a very long track record of rewarding shareholders. In addition, McDonald's has significant exposure to fast growing emerging markets. The stock trades at a reasonable valuation of around 13.5 times next year's earnings estimates. MCD also currently yields 3.20%. Pepsi PEP - Similar to McDonald's, Pepsi has a tremendous brand and a very consistent, profitable business. The company is also leveraged to growth in international markets, which should allow it to increase its top and bottom lines steadily in the coming years. The stock trades at a trailing P/E of 16.33, a forward P/E of 13.05, and a PEG ratio of 1.66. The stock yields 3% at current levels. Clorox CLX - Billionaire investor Carl Icahn has been building a substantial stake in this company. It is not too difficult to figure out why he thinks this is an attractive opportunity. Clorox has a steady, profitable business and a strong competitive moat with its quality brands. The stock may also be cheap at current levels. The shares trade at a trailing P/E of 16.90, a forward P/E of 15.51, and a PEG ratio of 1.99. The stock yields 3.30% at current levels. Pfizer PFE - This is one of the highest quality pharmaceutical companies in the world, and at current levels it offers a dividend yield far in excess of a 10-Year Treasury Note. The stock is also trading at a very cheap valuation. PFE trades at a trailing P/E of 19.38, and a forward P/E of just 8.69. The shares yield 4% at current levels. DuPont DD - Like the other names covered here, DuPont is a premier company with a track record of success. Over the last year, the stock has risen nearly 40%. The stock trades at a trailing P/E of 16.23, a forward P/E of 12.83 and a PEG ratio of 1.82. At current levels, DD yields 3.10%.