Ford Motor (F) DIvidends Date & History

Key Takeaways

• Ford offers a trailing dividend yield of 4.81% and forward yield of 4.85%, paid quarterly at $0.15 per share for an annual total of $0.60.
• Payout ratio stands at 64.10%, indicating moderate coverage by earnings, supported by positive free cash flow.
• Higher yield than peers like GM (0.9%) and TSLA (0%), positioning F as a standout for income in the auto sector.
• Dividend has been stable at current levels since 2021, following a pandemic-era cut and resumption.
• Sustainability bolstered by adjusted free cash flow generation, though earnings volatility warrants monitoring.
• Recent ex-dividend date was February 13, 2026, with payment on March 2, 2026.

Dividend Overview

Ford Motor Company (F) maintains a consistent quarterly dividend policy, distributing $0.15 per share each quarter, equating to an annual payout of $0.60. This delivers a trailing annual dividend yield of 4.81% and a forward yield of 4.85%, making it an attractive option for yield-seeking investors in the automotive industry. The company resumed regular dividends in 2021 after suspending payments during the COVID-19 crisis, reflecting a commitment to returning capital to shareholders amid operational challenges. Ford is best classified as a high-yield stock rather than a dividend growth contender, given the flat payout in recent years. With a market capitalization of approximately $49.66 billion, the dividend provides a reliable income stream, though subject to the cyclical nature of the auto sector.

Dividend History and Growth

Ford's dividend history reflects the volatility of the automotive industry. The company paid consistent quarterly dividends pre-2020 but suspended them amid pandemic disruptions, resuming in 2021 at a reduced $0.10 per share before increasing to the current $0.15 level later that year. Since then, payments have remained steady without increases, lacking a formal dividend growth streak like Dividend Aristocrats. Historical data shows long-term variability, with special dividends issued in prior boom years. The most recent declaration was for the first-quarter 2026 dividend, ex-date February 13, 2026, and paid March 2, 2026. Ford's strategy prioritizes sustainable payouts over aggressive growth, balancing reinvestment in electric vehicles (EVs) and shareholder returns.

Dividend Sustainability and Payout Ratio

Ford's trailing payout ratio of 64.10% suggests the dividend consumes a significant but manageable portion of earnings, with forward estimates implying improved coverage as 2026 EPS is projected at $1.51. Free cash flow (FCF) has been positive, with adjusted FCF supporting distributions—recently distributing about 25% of FCF as dividends. Despite trailing P/E of 11.84 indicating profitability pressures, financial stability is underpinned by $6-7 billion in expected adjusted FCF for recent years. Debt levels are elevated due to industry norms, but cash generation and cost controls enhance sustainability. Investors should watch earnings volatility from EV transitions and economic cycles, yet current metrics indicate the dividend remains secure in the near term.

Dividend Compared to Industry Peers

In the auto sector, Ford's nearly 5% yield significantly outpaces many peers. GM offers around 0.9%, prioritizing growth and buybacks, while TSLA pays no dividend, focusing entirely on reinvestment. STLA (Stellantis) boasts a higher 9-10% yield but with greater risk due to variability. Honda (HMC) yields about 3%, closer to the industry average of 2-3%. Ford's profile appeals to those seeking higher income relative to Detroit rival GM, though peers' lower yields reflect differing capital allocation amid EV shifts.

AI Screener

Tickeron’s AI Screener is an AI-powered stock and ETF discovery tool that helps traders and investors filter the market based on technical patterns, fundamentals, trends, volatility, and AI-driven signals. Users can scan thousands of stocks and ETFs using customizable filters such as industry, market capitalization, technical indicators, price patterns, and performance metrics. It efficiently identifies dividend stocks, income-focused investments, trending stocks, breakout candidates, and market opportunities more effectively than manual screening. Explore the AI Screener to streamline your research today.

Is This Stock Attractive for Dividend Investors?

Ford Motor Company (F) may appeal to income-oriented dividend investors prioritizing high current yield over growth, particularly those comfortable with cyclical industries. Its nearly 5% payout exceeds sector norms, offering substantial income potential for retirees or yield-focused portfolios. Conservative investors might appreciate the quarterly cadence and FCF backing, though earnings fluctuations from auto sales and EV investments introduce moderate risk. It suits long-term holders betting on Ford's Blue Oval revival but less so for dividend growth enthusiasts awaiting raises, absent since 2021. Compared to growth-heavy peers like TSLA, F provides tangible returns today. Balanced portfolios could allocate modestly, monitoring macroeconomic factors like interest rates and consumer demand.

Disclaimer

The information on this webpage is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as investment advice, a recommendation to purchase or sell any security, or an offer or solicitation related to investments. It does not consider your personal financial situation, goals, or risk profile, and all investing carries inherent risks, including the possibility of losing your entire investment. For more details, please review our full disclaimer. Disclaimers and Limitations