Mondelez International (MDLZ) DIvidends Date & History

Key Takeaways

• Mondelez International offers a forward dividend yield of 3.47%, above the consumer staples sector average.
• Quarterly dividend of $0.50 per share, with the most recent ex-dividend date of March 31, 2026, and payment on April 14, 2026.
• 12 consecutive years of dividend increases, positioning it as a reliable dividend achiever.
• Trailing payout ratio of 102.65%, but supported by strong expected free cash flow of approximately $3 billion in 2026.
• Annual dividend has grown from $1.33 in 2021 to $1.94 in 2025, reflecting consistent growth.
• Suitable for income-focused investors seeking defensive consumer staples exposure.

Dividend Overview

Mondelez International, Inc. (MDLZ), a leading global snacking company known for brands like Oreo and Cadbury, maintains a quarterly dividend policy with a current payout of $0.50 per share, equating to an annual dividend of $2.00. The forward dividend yield stands at 3.47%, with a trailing yield of 3.36% and a five-year average of 2.44%. Payments occur quarterly, typically mid-month following the ex-dividend date at quarter-end. The most recent ex-dividend date was March 31, 2026, with payment on April 14, 2026. This profile classifies MDLZ as a dividend growth stock rather than a high-yield play, appealing to investors prioritizing steady income in the consumer staples sector.

Dividend History and Growth

Mondelez has demonstrated consistent dividend growth, with 12 to 14 consecutive annual increases. Annual dividends have risen steadily: $1.62 in 2023, $1.79 in 2024, and $1.94 in 2025, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of around 9-10% over recent three- to five-year periods. Quarterly payouts have advanced from $0.315 in 2021 to the current $0.50. No cuts have occurred in over a decade, underscoring a long-term strategy of returning capital to shareholders amid stable snacking demand.

Dividend Sustainability and Payout Ratio

The trailing payout ratio of 102.65% appears elevated, potentially signaling pressure from recent earnings. However, forward estimates suggest improvement to around 66%, supported by projected EPS growth and robust free cash flow (FCF) of about $3 billion in 2026. FCF dividend payout stands at 78%, indicating coverage despite moderate debt levels typical for the industry. Earnings and cash flow trends affirm sustainability, with no imminent cut risks even in economic slowdowns.

Dividend Compared to Industry Peers

In the consumer staples sector, particularly packaged foods and snacks, MDLZ's 3.47% forward yield exceeds the sector ETF average of around 2.5% and outperforms peers like Hershey (HSY) at ~2.5% while trailing higher-yield names such as Conagra Brands (CAG) at 7.36% or Kraft Heinz (KHC) at 6.52%. Compared to General Mills (GIS) and Kellanova (K) at similar ~3-4%, MDLZ offers competitive yield with superior growth history, making it attractive relative to industry norms.

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Is This Stock Attractive for Dividend Investors?

Mondelez International (MDLZ) suits income investors seeking defensive exposure to consumer staples, where snacking demand remains resilient across economic cycles. Its 3.47% yield, combined with 12 years of consecutive increases, appeals to those prioritizing growing payouts over ultra-high yields. Long-term holders may value the stability, backed by global brand strength and FCF generation, though the elevated trailing payout ratio warrants monitoring earnings recovery. Conservative investors could appreciate the quarterly cadence and sector defensiveness, contrasting higher-risk high-yield peers. Balanced portfolios might allocate to MDLZ for reliable income without excessive volatility, though yield chasers may look elsewhere amid sector variability.

Disclaimer

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