Novartis AG Boosts Dividend Payment to $3.70, Exceeding Last Year's Rate

Novartis shareholders will receive a $3.70 dividend on March 12, an increase from last year's comparable dividend. The dividend yield is 3.1%, above the industry average. Earnings per share is forecast to rise 38.7% over the next year, indicating a sustainable payout ratio of 38% by next year. The company has a solid track record of paying stable dividends and growing its distributions at a yearly rate of 6.5% over the past 10 years.