Costco Announces $30 Per Share Special Dividend and New $4 Billion Stock Repurchase Program
Costco Wholesale (COST) has announced its largest special dividend to date, a $30-per-share payment scheduled for distribution on December 4, 2026. To qualify for this payout, shareholders must hold the stock by the close of trading on November 23, with the record date set for November 24. The total cost of this special dividend is estimated at $13.3 billion, reflecting the company's significant cash reserves and robust balance sheet. In addition to the dividend, Costco's board has authorized a new $4 billion common stock repurchase program set to expire in November 2030, replacing the existing program that expires in early 2027. This dual approach of special dividends and aggressive buybacks highlights Costco's strategy of returning excess capital to shareholders while maintaining low long-term debt and strong operational liquidity.
