Tech Stocks Boosting Dividends

Fresh on the heels of Dell Inc.’s decision to start paying dividends, Moody's Investors Service says payouts from the entire tech sector are on course to rise this year more than usual. Despite the fragile recovery, dividend payments are expected to approach $26-billion (U.S.) this year, up 14.3 per cent from 2011. Over the last four years, tech dividends have grown at an annual average of 10.9 per cent, Moody’s says.

Among the biggest dividend payers in tech last year, Microsoft Corp. paid $5.7-billion, Intel Corp. paid $4.1-billion and IBM Corp. paid $3.4-billion. Apple will make its first payment for its quarter ended Sept. 30. Based on current numbers, Apple’s payout over a full year would reach nearly $10-billion, higher than Exxon-Mobil's estimated $9-billion dividend and just behind AT&T's $10.2-billion dividend, Moody’s notes.

Source: Globe and Mail

Related Articles:
- 7 Dividend Stocks Sporting A Five-Star Rating
- 10 Dividend Stocks Ignoring The 4% Rule
- Dividend Stock Bubble: Is It Even Possible?
- 8 Dividend Stocks To Consider While Waiting on Apple to Pay Its First Dividend
- Holding Bonds Could Push Your Portfolio Into The High Risk Category