The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Announces Quarterly Dividend Payment

Rhea-AI Summary

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG) has approved a cash dividend of $0.66 per share, payable on March 8, 2024, to shareholders of record as of February 23, 2024.

Insights

Financial Analyst

The announcement by The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company to pay a cash dividend of $0.66 per share represents a significant event for shareholders and can be indicative of the company's current financial health. From a financial analysis standpoint, the declaration of a dividend typically signals confidence by the company's management in its profitability and cash flow stability. Investors often view such distributions as a positive sign, reinforcing the attractiveness of the stock as an income-generating investment.

However, it is essential to evaluate the dividend yield, which is the dividend per share divided by the stock price. If the yield is higher than average for the industry or the broader market, it could suggest that the company is prioritizing returning capital to shareholders, possibly at the expense of reinvesting in growth opportunities. Conversely, a lower yield could indicate that the company's stock price has been appreciating, which might be a sign of market confidence in its growth prospects.

Additionally, it's crucial to analyze the payout ratio, the percentage of earnings paid to shareholders as dividends. A sustainable payout ratio is generally below 60%, as it implies the company retains sufficient funds for reinvestment. A payout ratio that is too high can be unsustainable in the long term and may point to a potential reduction in future dividends if earnings decrease.

Market Research Analyst

As a market research analyst, it is important to contextualize the dividend announcement within the broader industry trends. The lawn and garden sector, as well as the indoor and hydroponic growing product markets, are subject to seasonal fluctuations and consumer spending patterns. The company's ability to maintain and potentially grow its dividend over time can be a reflection of its market position and operational efficiency.

Competitive analysis would involve comparing Scotts Miracle-Gro's dividend policy with its peers. A higher or rapidly increasing dividend might indicate a strong market position or a strategy to attract income-focused investors. On the other hand, if competitors are not offering similar dividends, it could either suggest that Scotts Miracle-Gro is outperforming its peers or taking a different approach to capital allocation.

Furthermore, the impact of macroeconomic factors such as interest rates, inflation and consumer confidence on disposable income and spending on non-essential items should be considered. These factors can influence the demand for home gardening and hydroponic products, thus affecting the company's revenue and its ability to sustain dividends.

MARYSVILLE, Ohio, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG), the world’s leading marketer of branded consumer lawn and garden as well as indoor and hydroponic growing products, announced that its Board of Directors has approved the payment of a cash dividend of $0.66 per share. The dividend is payable on Friday, March 8, 2024, to shareholders of record as of Friday, February 23, 2024.

About ScottsMiracle-Gro
With approximately $3.6 billion in sales, the Company is the world’s largest marketer of branded consumer products for lawn and garden care. The Company’s brands are among the most recognized in the industry. The Company’s Scotts®, Miracle-Gro®, and Ortho® brands are market-leading in their categories. The Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, The Hawthorne Gardening Company, is a leading provider of nutrients, lighting, and other materials used in the indoor and hydroponic growing segment. For additional information, visit us at www.scottsmiraclegro.com. 

For investor inquiries:
Aimee DeLuca
Sr. Vice President
Investor Relations
(937) 578-5621

For media inquiries:
Tom Matthews
Chief Communications Officer
Corporate Affairs
(937) 644-7044

FAQ

What is the dividend amount approved by The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG)?

The approved dividend amount is $0.66 per share.

When will the dividend be payable to shareholders of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG)?

The dividend will be payable on March 8, 2024.

When is the record date for shareholders to receive the dividend from The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG)?

The record date for shareholders to receive the dividend is February 23, 2024.