How are dividend calculated

Dividends are typically calculated based on a company's net income and can be calculated using different methods. Here's a detailed explanation: 1. **Dividend Payout Ratio Method**: The dividend payout ratio is calculated as a percentage of a company's net income. It represents the proportion of earnings paid out to shareholders as dividends. The formula is: - Dividend Payout Ratio = (Annual Dividend Payments / Annual Net Earnings) * 100 2. **Per-Share Basis Method**: Dividends can also be calculated on a per-share basis. This method involves dividing the total dividends by the number of outstanding shares. The formula is: - Dividend Payout Ratio = Dividends Paid / Net Income 3. **Balance Sheet Method**: If a company does not explicitly state its dividends, they can be calculated using the balance sheet and income statement. The formula is: - Annual Net Income - Net Change in Retained Earnings = Dividends Paid Understanding these methods can help you calculate and compare dividends across different companies and make informed investment decisions.