Morozoff Adjusts Dividend Policy Amid Earnings Decline

Morozoff Limited, a Japan-based confectionery manufacturer listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market under securities code 2217, has adjusted its dividend policy. The company's board approved an interim dividend of 5 yen per share, with a record date of July 31, 2026, and a total payout of approximately 101 million yen funded from retained earnings.

This payment matches the most recent forecast but is lower than the 6 yen interim dividend paid for the previous fiscal year. Morozoff noted that applying its usual payout guidelines would have required a substantial dividend reduction for the year ending January 31, 2027.

To mitigate this impact on shareholders, management has temporarily raised its target payout ratio to about 70% for the current fiscal year and plans an annual dividend of 10 yen per share, down from 16 yen last year. This balance between higher near-term cash returns and investment needs is aimed at ensuring financial soundness.