Despite the US market trading on a negative territory in the afternoon session, several companies declared their future dividend plans. Some notable dividend payers are discussed here.
Shares of Procter & Gamble Co. (NYSE: PG) added 1.06 percent or 66 cents to $62.86 as the company raised its dividend by 9 percent to 52.5 cents per share from its previous 48.2 cents a share. The dividend is payable on May 16, 2011 to shareholders of record on April 29, 2011.
Maximus, Inc (NYSE: MMS) shares were down 1.18 percent or 93 cents to $77.90 despite the company declaring a quarterly cash dividend of 15 cents per share. The dividend is payable on May 31, 2011 to shareholders of record on May 13, 2011.
Seagate Technology Plc (Nasdaq: STX) declared to restore its dividend policy, which was suspended in April 2009. The company used to pay a quarterly cash dividend of 3 cents per share. The dividend is payable on June 1, 2011 to shareholders of record on May 2, 2011. However, shares of the company lost 0.51 percent or 8 cents to $15.66.
Walgreen Co. (NYSE: WAG) shares were down 65 percent or 25 cents to $41.09 despite declaring a regular quarterly dividend of $0.175 per share. The dividend is payable on June 11, 2011 to shareholders of record on May 20, 2011.
Shares of Fastenal Co. (Nasdaq: FAST) slipped 3.99 percent or $2.69 to $64.81 although declaring a dividend of 26 cents per share. The dividend is payable on April 28, 2011 to shareholders of record on April 12, 2011.
Pitney Bowes Inc (NYSE: PBI) announced a quarterly cash dividend of 37 cents per share, payable on June 12, 2011 to shareholders of record on May 13, 2011. Shares of the company lost 0.44 percent or 11 cents to $25.07.
AO Smith Corp. (NYSE: AOS) declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of 14 cents per share. The dividend is payable on May 16, 2011 to shareholders of record on April 29, 2011. Shares of the company slipped 0.45 percent or 19 cents to $41.96.