Microsoft announces quarterly dividend increase and new share repurchase program

Rhea-AI Summary

Microsoft (MSFT) has announced a 10% increase in its quarterly dividend to $0.83 per share, payable on Dec. 12, 2024. The company's board also approved a new share repurchase program of up to $60 billion with no expiration date. Additionally, Microsoft set the date for its 2024 Annual Shareholders Meeting on Dec. 10, 2024, which will be held virtually. The meeting will be hosted by key executives including CEO Satya Nadella and CFO Amy Hood. These announcements reflect Microsoft's commitment to returning value to shareholders and its confidence in the company's future prospects.

Positive

• Quarterly dividend increased by 10% to $0.83 per share
• New share repurchase program authorized for up to $60 billion
• Share repurchase program has no expiration date, providing flexibility

Negative

• None.

Financial Analyst

Microsoft's latest financial moves signal robust confidence in its financial health and future prospects. The 10% dividend increase to $0.83 per share is a strong indicator of the company's steady cash flow and commitment to shareholder returns. This raise outpaces inflation, offering real value to income-focused investors.

The new $60 billion share repurchase program is particularly noteworthy. With no expiration date, it provides flexibility and demonstrates long-term faith in the company's valuation. This program could potentially boost earnings per share by reducing the number of outstanding shares, although its effectiveness will depend on execution timing and stock price movements.

These actions, combined with Microsoft's leading position in AI and cloud computing, paint a picture of a company balancing growth investments with shareholder rewards. However, investors should monitor how these financial decisions impact Microsoft's cash reserves and its ability to fund future innovations and potential acquisitions.

Tech Industry Analyst

Microsoft's financial maneuvers reflect its strong position in the tech industry, particularly in AI and cloud services. The dividend increase and share buyback program indicate that despite significant investments in AI development, the company maintains robust cash flows. This financial strength could provide Microsoft with a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

The emphasis on AI in the company description suggests a strategic pivot, positioning Microsoft as an AI-first company. This aligns with industry trends but also sets high expectations for AI-driven growth and innovation. Investors should watch for concrete AI product launches and their market reception to gauge the success of this strategy.

While these financial decisions are positive signals, they also raise questions about the balance between returning capital to shareholders and investing in R&D or strategic acquisitions, which are important in the fast-paced tech sector. Microsoft's ability to maintain this balance will be key to its long-term competitiveness against other tech giants.

Annual shareholders meeting set for Dec. 10, 2024

REDMOND, Wash., Sept. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft Corp. on Monday announced that its board of directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.83 per share, reflecting an 8 cent or 10% increase over the previous quarter's dividend. The dividend is payable Dec. 12, 2024, to shareholders of record on Nov. 21, 2024. The ex-dividend date will be Nov. 21, 2024.

The board of directors also approved a new share repurchase program authorizing up to $60 billion in share repurchases. The new share repurchase program, which has no expiration date, may be terminated at any time.

In addition, the company announced the date for the 2024 Annual Shareholders Meeting, to be held Dec. 10, 2024. Shareholders at the close of business on Sept. 30, 2024, the record date, will be entitled to vote their shares.

This year's annual shareholders meeting will be held virtually and hosted by Satya Nadella, chairman and chief executive officer; Amy Hood, executive vice president and chief financial officer; Brad Smith, vice chair and president; and Sandra E. Peterson, Microsoft lead independent director.

Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT" @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/microsoft-announces-quarterly-dividend-increase-and-new-share-repurchase-program-302249565.html

SOURCE Microsoft Corp.

FAQ

What is Microsoft's new quarterly dividend amount for MSFT stock?

Microsoft's new quarterly dividend is $0.83 per share, representing a 10% increase from the previous quarter.

How much is Microsoft's new share repurchase program worth?

Microsoft's board has approved a new share repurchase program authorizing up to $60 billion in share repurchases.

When is Microsoft's 2024 Annual Shareholders Meeting for MSFT stockholders?

Microsoft's 2024 Annual Shareholders Meeting is scheduled for December 10, 2024, and will be held virtually.

What is the record date for voting at Microsoft's 2024 Annual Shareholders Meeting?

Shareholders of record at the close of business on September 30, 2024, will be entitled to vote at the 2024 Annual Shareholders Meeting.