Kimberly-Clark extends its 54-year dividend growth streak while offering one of the highest yields among Dividend Kings at 4.7%.
Kimberly-Clark (NASDAQ: KMB) has increased its dividend for 54 consecutive years, qualifying as a Dividend King with a current yield of 4.7%. The stock is up 11% year-to-date, though total returns over the past 12 months are down 10%.
The company’s long-term performance has been modest, averaging a 1% annual decline over five years and a 1% total rise over the past decade. Its primary appeal has been steady dividend income and downside protection during market downturns.
A recent strategic shift may improve returns. Kimberly-Clark partnered with pulp supplier Suzano (NYSE: SUZ) to form Arbex, offloading lower-margin paper towel and tissue businesses to focus on higher-margin products.