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Archer Daniels Midland Company ADM has announced an extension of its share repurchase program. Initially launched in 2015, the program authorized the repurchase of up to 1 billion shares through Dec. 31, 2019. In 2019, it was extended up to Dec. 31, 2024, with the authorization increased to 2 billion shares.
The program has been extended by another five years, running through Dec. 31, 2029. The board has authorized the repurchase of an additional 1 billion shares under this extended program, bringing the total authorization to 3 billion. Currently, 1.15 billion shares remain available for repurchase under the program, with the timing and quantity of repurchases to be determined at ADM’s discretion.
The expansion of ADM's share repurchase program underscores management's confidence in the company's financial strength and growth prospects. The additional authorization of 1 billion shares through 2029 highlights a significant commitment to returning capital to its shareholders.
By extending the program through 2029, ADM secures a long-term framework to navigate market opportunities and fluctuations in stock prices. The discretionary structure of the program allows the company to strategically balance share repurchases with other capital allocation priorities, such as funding growth initiatives and preserving financial flexibility.
More Insights Into ADM
Apart from its robust share repurchase program, ADM demonstrates a strong commitment to returning value to its shareholders through regular quarterly dividends. The company has increased its dividend twice in the last two years.
In August 2022, the dividend was raised to 40 cents per share, and it has since increased to 50 cents per share, reflecting ADM’s consistent financial performance and shareholder-focused capital allocation strategy. This marks the company's 372nd straight quarterly dividend payment.
Considering yesterday’s closing price of $52.92, its annualized dividend yield is 3.84%. Apart from being attractive to investors, the yield represents a steady income stream. The company has a five-year annualized dividend growth of 8.26% with a dividend payout ratio of 40%.
As of Sept. 30, 2024, ADM’s cash and cash equivalent balance was $784 million. The cash levels are decent to support the ability to invest in the company’s business and return excess cash to its shareholders.
Hence, a decent balance sheet position, along with its earnings strength, indicates that ADM’s capital distributions are sustainable.
Shares of this Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell) company have lost 11.5% in the past month compared with the industry’s decline of 2.2%.