In Days, Coca-Cola Announces Its Next Dividend Increase: What Can Investors Expect?

Core Insights - Coca-Cola has maintained a dividend growth streak for 63 years, making it one of only 56 companies globally recognized as Dividend Kings as of December 2025 [1][2] - There are indications that Coca-Cola may announce a significant dividend increase, potentially in the double digits, as the last substantial hike over 10% occurred in 2007 [2] Dividend Growth Analysis - Over the past decade, Coca-Cola's average annual dividend growth was 3.94%, which has generally outpaced inflation but is considered modest [3] - The dividend hikes from 2021 to 2025 have been relatively low compared to historical performance, with cumulative growth of 25.5% since 2021, which barely matches the 24.3% inflation during the same period [4][7] Historical Performance - From 1994 to 1998, Coca-Cola's dividend growth was robust, with increases of 14.7% in 1994 and a cumulative rise of 76% over five years, significantly outpacing the cumulative inflation rate of 12.8% [5][7] Current Financial Performance - Recent earnings reports show a substantial adjusted quarterly earnings growth of 29.8%, compared to just 5% growth a year prior [8] - Coca-Cola's operating margin has increased to 32% from 21.2% a year earlier, indicating improved profitability and greater cash availability for dividends, share buybacks, or acquisitions [9]