A U.S. Dollar symbol in gold. hometowncd/iStock via Getty Images A common expression within the dividend growth investing community is as follows: The safest dividend is the one that's just been raised. Upon further thought, this makes plenty of sense. When a Board of Directors ups the dividend, it is usually an admission of confidence in the future direction of the company. There are exceptions to the rule, but few boards, in my opinion, would announce a dividend hike only to take it back shortly thereafte ...