The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday edition that Enbridge raised its dividend by 10 per cent in early January and expects to announce a second hike -- for a total increase of 15 per cent in 2017 -- after its acquisition of Spectra Energy closes. The Globe's John Heinzl writes that Enbridge also reiterated plans to raise its dividend at an annual rate of 10 per cent to 12 per cent from 2018 through 2024. Given the company's solid dividend outlook, Mr. Heinzl boosted his position in Enbridge in his model dividend portfolio. Canadian Utilities also announced a 10-per-cent dividend increase. Canadian Utilities' parent, Atco, announced an even bigger hike, of 15 per cent. Mr. Heinzl says when a company announces a dividend increase, it sends a strong signal of confidence about the future. Desjardins analyst Mark Jarvi says the dividend boosts from Canadian Utilities and Atco "show management's conviction in the companies' ability to continue to grow their adjusted [free cash flow]." Mr. Jarvi says both companies "can comfortably sustain the elevated dividend payments" in light of their conservative payout ratios of 58 per cent for Canadian Utilities and 34 per cent for Atco.