Aramco's Dividend Boost Despite 25% Profit Fall

Saudi oil giant Aramco reported a 25% decline in profit to $121.3 billion in 2023, down from $161.1 billion in 2022, but still representing its second-highest net income on record. Despite the earnings decline, Aramco raised its dividend payout to $31 billion, with the Saudi government receiving a significant portion. The company also transferred an additional 8% of shares to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, strengthening the fund's financial position and boosting its ability to invest on behalf of the Saudi state. Aramco confirmed it would halt plans to raise its oil production capacity and instead focus on increasing gas production and growing its liquids-to-chemicals business.