The first European dividend hikes in 2025
Sweden and UK listed stocks kick off busy dividend season
With European companies beginning to report their annual results, dividend announcements are emerging across the region. Unlike the quarterly payment model common in the U.S., many European firms pay dividends just once a year.
However, semi-annual or even quarterly payouts are becoming more common in some markets, particularly in Scandinavia and the UK. This article takes a closer look at some of the early 2025 dividend announcements.
Early Dividend Announcements
United Kingdom
The UK remains a hotspot for early announcements, reflecting its mix of quarterly, semi-annual, and variable dividend schedules.
Primary Health Properties PLC: This healthcare property investment company announced a new quarterly dividend with an annualized yield of 7.8%, despite a year-to-date total return of -2.2%.
Gateley (Holdings) PLC: Offering a semi-annual dividend, Gateley boasts an impressive yield of 7.0%. The ex-dividend date is set for February 20, 2025.
Aviva PLC: One of the standout names, Aviva’s semi-annual dividend offers a yield of 6.9%, with an ex-dividend date on April 10, 2025. The company has also posted a positive YTD total return of 5.4%.
M Winkworth PLC: This real estate company declared a quarterly dividend yielding 6.2%.
Sweden
Swedish companies often adhere to an annual dividend structure but are increasingly introducing flexibility.
Avanza Bank Holding AB: Continuing its robust track record, Avanza announced an annual dividend of SEK 11.75, yielding 3.6%, with an ex-dividend date set for April 25, 2025. The company’s YTD total return is an impressive 18.1%.
TF Bank AB: Returning to dividends after a two-year break, TF Bank announced a special dividend of SEK 5.00 per share, yielding 1.3%.
Germany
In Germany, dividends are typically paid once per year, and early announcements reflect this trend.
Dinkelacker AG: The company continues its tradition of a regular and special dividend, totaling €32 per share, yielding 3.8% at the current stock price.
Deutsche Beteiligungs AG: With a yield of 4.1%, Deutsche Beteiligungs continues to deliver solid dividend returns for investors. The stock price however is doing poorly in the last couple of years.
Other Notable Announcements
France’s Vetoquinol SA: While offering a modest yield of 1.3%, the company’s YTD total return is currently -10.9%. Vetoquinol announced the ex-dividend date but has not yet announced the annual payment for 2025. In 2024 the company paid a €0.85 per share dividend.
B&M European Value Retail SA: Announced a 15 pence special dividend with the stock now yielding an estimated 4.7%, though its YTD total return stands at -8.5%. B&M pays annual special dividends. The ex-date was Jan. 16.
A Wave of Announcements Still to Come
This flurry of early announcements sets the stage for a busy dividend season. With hundreds of companies yet to report their results, there’s much more to come in the weeks ahead.
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Disclaimer: The information provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Investors should conduct their own research or consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
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