Found this little article on Investopedia.


How Long Is That Dividend Increase Streak?
Emerson Electric (NYSE: EMR) 52-Week Change: 9% Payout Ratio: 52%
Alright, we know what you're thinking. After Emerson Electric's most recent quarterly report, this may look like anything but a quality stock. The industrial conglomerate reported a 27% drop in fourth-quarter profits and doesn't expect a recovery until late 2010.

In addition, Emerson has identified numerous companies for possible acquisitions with $1.4 billion of acquisitions already in process. Emerson also said they expect to do an additional half billion in acquisitions in the fiscal year.

Despite the bad quarter, Emerson reported a record $1.21 billion in free cash flow and that's one reason why Emerson has increased its dividend every year for the last 52 years, one of the 10 longest streaks of any U.S.-listed company. And that's the mark of a quality stock. (Learn more about free cash flow in Free Cash Flow Yield: The Best Fundamental Indicator.)