Coca-Cola Keeps Dividend Payout Streak Alive for 64 Years

Coca-Cola's dividend has been increased for an impressive 64 consecutive years. The company raised its quarterly payout to $0.53 per share in February, bringing the annual dividend to $2.12 per share. This represents a 3.9% increase and solidifies Coca-Cola's position among the elite list of Dividend Kings.

The underlying business is growing faster than the dividend, with Q2 revenue up 7%, comparable EPS up 11%, and unit case volume up 5%. The company has shifted its focus towards placing fewer and larger bets rather than chasing every trend. Coca-Cola Zero Sugar has emerged as a growth engine, with global unit case volumes up 14%.

The CEO, Henrique Braun, has emphasized the need for innovation and getting closer to consumers. He acknowledged that the company needs to improve speed to market and increase its presence in functional nutrition categories. To achieve this, Coca-Cola is expanding its product offerings and marketing across price points and pack sizes.