Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd's Dividend Analysis

In This Article:

An In-depth Look at Upcoming Dividends and Company Fundamentals

Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd (HOKCF) recently announced a dividend of $0.23 per share, slated for distribution on June 24, 2024, with the ex-dividend date set for June 6, 2024. As investors anticipate this forthcoming payment, it's crucial to explore the company's dividend history, yield, and growth rates. This analysis utilizes comprehensive data from GuruFocus to evaluate the dividend performance of Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd and its sustainability.

Overview of Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd

Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd, known as HKCG, stands as the oldest public utility company in Hong Kong. The company primarily engages in the production and distribution of town gas, holding a monopoly in its distribution and retail sectors within Hong Kong. Expansion into mainland China has seen HKCG undertaking 267 gas distribution projects across 26 provinces. Additionally, the company diversifies its portfolio by investing in water, upstream gas, and new energy sectors, with a significant 15.8% stake in the International Financial Center, a premier office building in Hong Kong's central business district. This diversified business model underpins its financial stability and growth prospects.

Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd's Dividend Analysis
Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd's Dividend Analysis

Examining Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd's Dividend History

Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd has upheld a robust track record of consistent dividend payments since 2004, distributing dividends bi-annually. This consistent payout reflects the company's strong financial management and commitment to returning value to shareholders.

Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd's Dividend Analysis
Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd's Dividend Analysis

Detailed Analysis of Dividend Yield and Growth

As of the latest data, Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd boasts a trailing twelve-month dividend yield of 5.86% and a forward dividend yield of 5.86%, indicating stable dividend expectations over the next year. Over the past three years, the company's annual dividend growth rate was 2.70%, which increased to 5.40% over a five-year period, and reached 8.30% over the past decade. These figures illustrate a promising trend in dividend growth, reinforcing the attractiveness of HKCG as a dividend-paying stock.

Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd's Dividend Analysis
Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd's Dividend Analysis

The Sustainability of Dividends: Payout Ratio and Profitability

To evaluate the sustainability of dividends, it is essential to consider the dividend payout ratio, which currently stands at 1.05 for Hong Kong and China Gas Co Ltd. This ratio suggests a potential concern regarding the sustainability of future dividends if not managed carefully. However, the company's profitability rank of 8 out of 10, alongside consistent positive net income over the past decade, provides a counterbalance, indicating strong earnings capabilities that could support ongoing dividend payments.