Unlocking the Power of Special Dividends: A Guide for Savvy Investors
Special dividends, also known as supplemental dividends, are not your average dividend payments. These irregular and often substantial payouts can add a significant boost to a stock’s regular dividends, enhancing its overall dividend yield. For investors, special dividends represent an added bonus that can provide a temporary increase in returns. While the timing of these payments may be unpredictable, some companies have established a track record of rewarding shareholders with special dividends in the past.
Exploring Three Stocks with a History of Special Dividends
1. Costco: A Giant in Consumer Staples
Costco (NASDAQ:) is a well-known membership-based consumer staples stock that has not only consistently paid regular dividends but has also rewarded shareholders with special dividends. While the company’s regular dividend payment is currently $1.16 per share, its special dividends have been the real showstopper. With special dividend payments in 2015, 2017, 2020, and 2024, Costco has demonstrated a commitment to returning value to its investors.
- In 2015, the special dividend was $5 per share.
- In 2017, it increased to $7 per share.
- In 2020, it jumped to $10 per share.
- Most recently, in 2024, Costco paid a whopping $15 per share as a special dividend.
While Costco’s dividend yield has fluctuated over the years, reaching highs of nearly 6% in 2017, the company’s consistent growth and special dividend payments have contributed to a strong overall yield for investors.
2. ConocoPhillips: Embracing Variable Return of Cash (VROC)
ConocoPhillips (NYSE:) has taken a unique approach to special dividends through its use of Variable Return of Cash (VROC) payments. By incorporating VROC payments alongside regular dividends, the company has shown a commitment to rewarding shareholders more frequently. While the VROC payments may be smaller in size, they provide investors with more consistent returns.
- In Q2, the regular dividend was $0.50 per share, with a $0.28 VROC payment.
- In Q3, the regular dividend combined the two payments for a total of $0.78 per share.
ConocoPhillips’ strategic use of VROC payments signals a potential for larger, less frequent special dividends in the future, offering investors an opportunity for increased returns.
3. Ford: Driving Value Through Special Dividends
Ford (NYSE:) has made a strong comeback in terms of dividend payments, with a regular dividend of $0.15 per share and special dividend payments in recent years. By incorporating special dividends into its payout structure, Ford has been able to provide investors with a higher overall dividend yield.
- In March 2023, Ford paid a $0.65 special dividend, in addition to a $0.18 special dividend in March of the same year.
Despite facing challenges in the market, Ford’s commitment to special dividends has allowed it to offer investors a competitive dividend yield compared to other automakers.
Analysis: Maximizing Returns Through Special Dividends
Special dividends are not just one-time bonus payments; they represent a strategic move by companies to reward shareholders and boost overall returns. By understanding which companies have a history of paying special dividends, investors can position themselves to benefit from these additional payouts. Companies like Costco, ConocoPhillips, and Ford have demonstrated a commitment to providing value to shareholders through special dividends, offering investors an opportunity to maximize their returns.
For investors looking to enhance their portfolio’s dividend yield and capitalize on additional income, special dividends present a unique opportunity to unlock value and drive long-term growth. By staying informed about companies that offer special dividends and understanding their impact on overall returns, investors can make informed decisions that align with their financial goals and objectives.