Colgate-Palmolive (CL) DIvidends Date & History

Key Takeaways

• Colgate-Palmolive offers a forward dividend yield of approximately 2.5%, providing reliable income for investors.
• The company pays a quarterly dividend of $0.53 per share, equating to an annual payout of $2.12.
• CL has raised its dividend for 63 consecutive years, earning Dividend King status, with uninterrupted payments since 1895.
• Payout ratio stands at around 78%, indicating solid coverage by earnings.
• Strong free cash flow supports dividend sustainability amid stable consumer staples demand.
• Recent ex-dividend date was April 20, 2026, with payment on May 15, 2026.

Dividend Overview

Colgate-Palmolive (CL), a leading global consumer goods company, maintains a consistent quarterly dividend policy. The current quarterly dividend is $0.53 per share, up from $0.52, resulting in a forward annual dividend of $2.12 and a yield of about 2.5% based on recent stock prices around $84. Payments occur every three months, with the latest ex-dividend date on April 20, 2026, and payment on May 15, 2026. This profile positions CL as a dividend growth stock rather than a high-yield play, appealing to investors seeking reliable, inflation-hedging income from essential products like toothpaste and soaps.

Dividend History and Growth

Colgate-Palmolive has an exemplary dividend track record, paying uninterrupted dividends since 1895 and increasing them annually for 63 consecutive years, making it a Dividend King. Recent history shows steady growth: in 2025, the total annual dividend was $2.08 ($0.52 quarterly), rising to include a $0.53 payment in 2026. Earlier years reflect gradual hikes, from $1.98 in 2024 to $1.91 in 2023. This long-term strategy underscores CL's commitment to shareholders, supported by resilient demand for its household essentials.

Dividend Sustainability and Payout Ratio

The dividend appears highly sustainable, with a payout ratio of 78.33%, meaning about 78% of earnings are distributed, leaving room for reinvestment and growth. Earnings per share comfortably cover the $2.12 annual dividend, while robust free cash flow—exceeding $3 billion annually in recent years—provides additional buffer. Low debt levels relative to cash flows and consistent operating margins in the consumer staples sector further bolster stability. No cuts have occurred in over a century, signaling strong financial health.

Dividend Compared to Industry Peers

In the household products subsector of consumer staples, CL's 2.5% yield is competitive. Peer Procter & Gamble (PG) offers around 2.9%, while Kimberly-Clark (KMB) provides a higher 5.2%. The broader S&P 500 Consumer Staples sector averages about 2.67%, placing CL near the midpoint—attractive for balanced income without excessive risk.

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Is This Stock Attractive for Dividend Investors?

Colgate-Palmolive appeals to dividend growth investors valuing long-term consistency over high yields. Its 63-year streak of increases and Dividend King status suit conservative, income-oriented portfolios seeking stability in essential goods. Long-term holders benefit from compounding via modest 2.5% yield and organic growth potential. However, those chasing ultra-high yields may look elsewhere, as CL's payout trails some peers amid premium valuation. Balanced investors appreciate earnings coverage and free cash flow resilience, though sector headwinds like inflation could pressure margins. Overall, it fits patient strategies prioritizing reliability in volatile markets.

Disclaimer

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