Simon Property Group, Inc. - SPG STOCK NEWS

On June 21, 2021, Simon announced a 7.7% increase in its common stock dividend for Q2 2021. Shareholders will receive a $1.40 cash dividend per common share, payable on July 23, 2021, to those on record as of July 2, 2021. This decision reflects Simon's ongoing commitment to return value to its investors amid market uncertainties.

Simon Property Group (NYSE: SPG) addresses the environmental impact of both Bitcoin mining and online shopping. The company emphasizes that in-store shopping is a more sustainable option, claiming that shoppers can help the environment by choosing local retail outlets. Simon has reduced its carbon footprint by over 50% since 2003 and plans to lower emissions by an additional 68% by 2035. The company also highlights initiatives such as increased EV charging stations and solar energy systems aimed at promoting sustainability.

S&P Global and IHS Markit announced plans to divest IHS Markit's Oil Price Information Services (OPIS) and Coal, Metals and Mining businesses due to regulatory feedback. This strategic move aims to facilitate the timely closing of their proposed merger, expected in H2 2021, pending regulatory approvals. Both companies are collaborating with regulators to ensure compliance and anticipate that this divestiture will address any concerns raised.

On May 11, 2021, C3 (Creating Culinary Communities) announced the opening of Citizens, a lifestyle food hall, in New York City and Atlanta, part of its expansion strategy. Citizens will feature ghost kitchen concepts, operating brands like Krispy Rice and Sam's Crispy Chicken. The first location opens in July 2021 at Manhattan West, while Atlanta's Phipps Plaza will follow in 2022. C3 aims to revitalize urban dining with immersive experiences, leveraging partnerships with Brookfield Properties and Simon Property Group, the latter being a minority investor.

Simon reported Q1 2021 net income of $445.9 million ($1.36 per share) and FFO of $934.0 million ($2.48 per share). Despite an 8.4% decline in combined NOI due to COVID-19, portfolio NOI rose 4%. Occupancy reached 90.8%, with a 0.6% increase in base minimum rent per square foot. The company issued $1.5 billion in senior notes and €750 million in Euro notes to strengthen its balance sheet. Simon raised its 2021 guidance with an anticipated FFO per share of $9.70 to $9.80. A quarterly dividend of $1.30 per share was paid on April 23, 2021.

On April 22, 2021, Simon emphasized sustainability by urging shoppers to return online purchases to physical stores instead of using couriers or mail. This practice can cut carbon emissions by up to 40%. In 2020, online returns soared to $102 billion, with apparel returns reaching 40%. Aharon Kestenbaum, Head of Sustainability, highlighted the environmental and economic advantages of in-store returns. Despite these benefits, only 7% of retailers encourage this method, even though customers prefer the convenience and immediate refunds associated with in-person returns.

Simon Property Group, a global leader in premier shopping and entertainment destinations, is set to release its first-quarter 2021 earnings on May 10, 2021, after market close. A conference call will follow at 5:00 p.m. EDT, allowing stakeholders to discuss the financial results. Interested participants can access the live webcast at investors.simon.com or dial in using specific numbers for U.S. and international participants. An audio replay will be available from May 10 to May 17, 2021.

Simon has declared a $1.30 per common share cash dividend for Q1 2021, payable on April 23, 2021, to shareholders recorded by April 9, 2021. This announcement reinforces Simon's commitment to returning value to its shareholders amid ongoing challenges in the retail sector. However, the company faces uncertainties related to the COVID-19 pandemic, potential tenant bankruptcies, and competitive market pressures, which could impact its financial performance moving forward.