What to do with $50,000 now

According to Pat Dorsey, director of equity research at Morningstar (and a Money columnist), high-quality blue chips present the best opportunities now. He likes these 10, all of which offer above-average dividends.

Stock: Abbott Labs
Why now? Diversification -- plus few patents set to expire -- equals good prospects for the drugmaker.

Stock: BB&T
Why now? Unlike some other financial firms, this plain-vanilla regional lender has a conservative balance sheet.

Stock: Diageo ADR
Why now? As consumers worldwide resume spending, the owner of brands like Tanqueray and Smirnoff should profit.

Stock: Exxon Mobil
Why now? Its sheer scale, plus great capital-allocation skill, positions the energy giant well.

Stock: Novartis ADR
Why now? Novartis has a top-tier new-drug pipeline plus a good record of returning cash to shareholders.

Stock: Paychex
Why now? This payroll company offers good pricing power and strong margins.

Stock: Philip Morris
Why now? Growth is slowing, but Big Mo still has fat margins and a healthy dividend.

Stock: Realty Income
Why now? This retail landlord offers a high yield combined with consistent, modest income growth.

Stock: Southern Co.
Why now? An electricity producer and distributor, Southern Co. is a reliable juggernaut that's positioned well for growth.

Stock: Sysco
Why now? This strong food-products marketer and distributor delivers high returns on capital.

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