Earlier this week, the Walt Disney board approved an increase to its annual dividend of $.05, bringing the total dividend per share to $.40 for 2010. The dividend will be payable on January 18, 2011 to shareholders of record as of close of business, December 13, 2010.
2010 will mark the 55th consecutive year that Disney shareholders have received a dividend, with an increase this year of more than 14% over the dividend paid last year.
Disney president and CEO Robert A. Iger attributes the increase to more than just good financial performance.
“The Walt Disney Company had a strong year both creatively and financially in 2010,” said Iger. “We are pleased to be able to raise our shareholder dividend while continuing to invest for future growth.”
Disney also announced that its annual shareholders’ meeting will be held Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Disney stock closed up 1.7% on Wednesday, the day of the announcement, to top out at $37.12. The stock closed out the week at $37.59.
