Microsoft, which sells the Surface Pro line of tablets, announced its 15th
straight annual dividend increase this week.
Photo: Flickr.com/Mack Male

This week brought some nice dividend increases from a technology company and a worldwide restaurateur.  Microsoft and McDonald’s announced their 15th and 41st year of dividend growth, respectively, with increases in the 7 – 8% range.  Meanwhile, defense contractor Lockheed-Martin deferred their dividend announcement to next week.

Dividend Increases Announced This Week

Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)

Industry: Technology

Dividend Payment: 42 cents per share – up 7.7% from prior level of 39 cents

Dividend Paid On: 12/14

Stock Goes Ex-Dividend (own the stock before this date to collect the dividend): 11/15

Number of Years of Dividend Increases: 15

Current Forward Yield: 2.26%

McDonald’s (MCD)

Industry: Restaurants

Dividend Payment: $1.01 per share – up 7.4% from prior level of 94 cents

Dividend Paid On: 12/15

Stock Goes Ex-Dividend (own the stock before this date to collect the dividend): 11/30

Number of Years of Dividend Increases: 41

Current Forward Yield: 2.54%

Dividend Increase Announcements Expected Next Week

Lockheed-Martin Corporation (LMT)