Expanding its program for returning capital to shareholders, Microsoft late Tuesday said its board voted to both boost its quarterly dividend and adopt a new share repurchase program.
Microsoft (ticker: MSFT) raised its quarterly dividend rate by 11%, to 62 cents from 56 cents. It was the 12th straight year that the company has boosted its quarterly payout following its September board meeting. The new rate gives the company a yield of 0.8%. The hike follows increases of 10% last year and 11% in 2019.
The company also announced a new $60 billion stock repurchase program, with no specific expiration date.
Microsoft also said its board has appointed President Brad Smith to the added role of vice chair. “This reflects the unique leadership role that Brad plays for the company, our board of directors and me, with governments and other external stakeholders around the world,” Microsoft CEO and Chairman Satya Nadella said in a statement.
Microsoft in late trading is up 0.9%, to $302.51.
Write to Eric J. Savitz at [email protected]
