Bank OZK Announces Increase to Quarterly Common Stock Dividend and Announces Preferred Stock Dividend

Rhea-AI Summary

Bank OZK (Nasdaq: OZK) announced a quarterly cash dividend on its common stock of $0.38 per share, up 2.70% from the prior quarter. The company has increased its quarterly cash dividend for 54 consecutive quarters and is included in the S&P High Yield Dividend Aristocrats® index since January 2018. Bank OZK is a regional bank with over 240 offices in eight states and $32.77 billion in total assets as of September 30, 2023.

Insights

Financial Analyst

The announcement by Bank OZK of an increased quarterly cash dividend on its common stock represents a sustained growth in shareholder returns, which is a positive signal for investors. The increment, although modest, is indicative of the bank's financial health and its confidence in maintaining a steady stream of income. The consistent rise over fifty-four quarters aligns with a strategic approach to attract and retain investors seeking stable dividend income.

Moreover, inclusion in the S&P High Yield Dividend Aristocrats® index underscores the bank's commitment to a managed-dividends policy. This distinction can enhance the bank's visibility among income-focused investors and may contribute to a more favorable perception in the market, potentially impacting the stock's liquidity and demand. It is important to note that dividend policies are often interpreted as signals by the market; thus, a consistent increase could be seen as a reflection of the bank's optimistic outlook and sound financial management.

Market Research Analyst

Bank OZK's strategic positioning within the S&P High Yield Dividend Aristocrats® index can be seen as a move to capitalize on the growing trend of investors seeking reliable dividend-paying stocks amidst market volatility. The bank's ability to increase dividends consecutively over such an extended period is noteworthy and may be leveraged as a competitive advantage to differentiate itself from other regional banks.

Furthermore, the bank's extensive operations across various states and its significant total assets as of the latest quarter suggest a robust regional presence. This diversified geographical footprint could mitigate risks associated with regional economic downturns and provide a stable foundation for continued financial performance and dividend growth.

Fifty-four consecutive quarters of increased quarterly cash dividend on its common stock

LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Jan. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bank OZK (the “Bank”) (Nasdaq: OZK) announced its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend on the Bank’s common stock of $0.38 per share, up $0.01, or 2.70% from the prior quarter. The common stock dividend is payable on January 23, 2024 to shareholders of record as of January 16, 2024. Bank OZK has increased its quarterly cash dividend on its common stock in each of the last fifty-four quarters.

The Board of Directors also declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.28906 per share on the Bank’s 4.625% Series A Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock (“Series A Preferred Stock”) (Nasdaq: OZKAP) for the period covering November 15, 2023 through, but excluding February 15, 2024. The Series A Preferred Stock dividend is payable on February 15, 2024, to the holders of record of the Series A Preferred Stock at the close of business on February 1, 2024.

Bank OZK’s consistent track record of increasing its common stock dividend has led to it being included in the S&P High Yield Dividend Aristocrats® index (Ticker: SPHYDA) since January 2018. The index consists of members of the S&P Composite 1500® that have followed a managed-dividends policy of consistently increasing common stock dividends every year for at least 20 years, and that meet minimum float-adjusted market capitalization and liquidity requirements. For more information on the index, visit www.spglobal.com/spdji.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Bank OZK (Nasdaq: OZK) is a regional bank providing innovative financial solutions delivered by expert bankers with a relentless pursuit of excellence. Established in 1903, Bank OZK conducts banking operations with over 240 offices in eight states including Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, Texas, New York, California and Mississippi and had $32.77 billion in total assets as of September 30, 2023. For more information, visit www.ozk.com.

The Bank files annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy materials, and other information required by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”), copies of which are available electronically at the FDIC’s website at https://efr.fdic.gov/fcxweb/efr/index.html and are also available on the Bank’s investor relations website at ir.ozk.com. To receive automated email alerts for these materials please visit https://ir.ozk.com/other/email-alerts to sign up.

Investor Relations Contact: Media Contact:		Jay Staley (501) 906-7842 Michelle Rossow (501) 906-3922

FAQ

What is the latest quarterly cash dividend announced by Bank OZK?

The latest quarterly cash dividend announced by Bank OZK is $0.38 per share on its common stock.

How many consecutive quarters has Bank OZK increased its quarterly cash dividend?

Bank OZK has increased its quarterly cash dividend for 54 consecutive quarters.

What is the ticker symbol for Bank OZK?

The ticker symbol for Bank OZK is OZK.

What is the total assets of Bank OZK as of September 30, 2023?

The total assets of Bank OZK as of September 30, 2023, were $32.77 billion.

Where can I find more information about Bank OZK?

You can find more information about Bank OZK on their website at www.ozk.com or on their investor relations website at ir.ozk.com.