"Global Corporate Dividends Reach Record $1.7 Trillion in 2023"

Global dividends reached a record $1.66 trillion in 2023, with Microsoft reclaiming the top spot as the biggest payer. The fourth quarter of 2023 saw strong growth, and Janus Henderson forecasts dividends of $1.72 trillion for 2024. Despite some sectors experiencing lower distributions, corporate cash flow remains strong, providing support for dividends and share buybacks. Europe and Japan were major contributors to global dividend growth, while banks led the way in payouts. Despite the impact of higher interest rates, the outlook for dividends in 2024 remains optimistic.