Keller Group plc (LSE:KLR), a company in the Industrial sector, has announced a dividend payment of £0.166 per share, scheduled for September 13th. Despite this increase, the dividend yield stands at 2.9%, which is below the industry average.
While the yield provides insight for those interested in income, significant movements in the stock price can impact the overall returns. Keller Group’s stock price has surged by 38% over the past three months. This rise in stock price can contribute to a lower dividend yield, reflecting a reduction in yield despite an increase in the dividend amount.
Examining the sustainability of Keller Group’s dividend payments, it is evident that the company’s earnings comfortably cover the dividend. This indicates that a substantial portion of the earnings is being reinvested into the business rather than solely distributed as dividends. Forecasts suggest that earnings per share will increase by 4.3% over the next year, which supports the expectation of a payout ratio of around 28% by next year. This ratio falls within a range considered to be sustainable.
Keller Group has a strong track record of consistent dividend payments with minimal fluctuations. Since 2014, the annual dividend has increased from £0.24 to £0.452, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 6.5% per year. This steady increase, without major cuts, demonstrates a reliable dividend history, enhancing the attractiveness of the stock for income-focused stakeholders.
Looking forward, the potential for future dividend increases is supported by Keller Group's recent earnings performance. The company has achieved a significant annual earnings per share growth of 37% over the past five years. The low payout ratio and increasing earnings provide the flexibility for the company to potentially raise its dividend further.
Keller Group’s dividend payment reflects a stable and growing distribution policy, bolstered by a strong earnings performance and a consistent historical track record. The company’s ability to generate sufficient cash flow to cover dividend payments reinforces its position as a reliable income stock.