AstraZeneca PLC (LSE:AZN) has announced it is to increase its annual dividend this year by 7%, lifting it to $3.10 (£2.5) per share.
It marks the highest annual dividend increase in recent years, having only shifted its payout from $2.8 to $2.9 between 2019 and 2023.
Chairman Michel Demaré said: "The board is delighted to announce a 7% increase to the dividend… This uplift is in line with our progressive dividend policy, which remains unchanged, and reflects the continuing strength of AstraZeneca's investment proposition for shareholders."
The increase comes on the day of the pharma giant’s AGM, when shareholders will vote on an increase to the executives’ annual remuneration; and where opinion is sharply divided on the matter.