This implies that dividends too must rise, but there is no guarantee. However, during periods of recession dividends may fall. Companies do not guarantee the future level of dividends, or indeed, whether any dividends will be paid at all. As most shares are of indefinite term, the dividend stream is indefinite. Shareholders will continue to be entitled to dividends for as long as they own the shares, and the company continues to exist.
Shareholders hold their shares with a view to benefiting from capital appreciation.
However, the value of a particular share is whatever that share is worth on sale. There is no guarantee. The income stream from shares in large, well-managed companies is generally considered to be quite secure. However, during the recession of 1990-92 in Britain, a large number of UK companies cut their dividend payments. It is important to know that income from equities is less secure than the interest payments on corporate debt.