The investment seeks to maximize total return by emphasizing high current income with long term appreciation as a secondary objective, consistent with preservation of capital. The fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets, plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes, in dividend-paying equity securities, including common stock and preferred stock, of companies. It normally invests at least 65% of its net assets in equity securities that have consistently increased dividends for a period of at least 10 years. The fund may invest up to 30% of its net assets in foreign equity securities.