BMO(US:BMO) 247Wallst·2026-02-11 13:09Core Viewpoint - Bank of Montreal (BMO) has increased its quarterly dividend by 5% to $1.67 CAD per share for Q1 2026, maintaining a strong dividend history despite rising leverage concerns [1]. Financial Performance - BMO's annual dividend is $6.44 per share, with a current yield of 4.61% and a 27-year history of uninterrupted payments [1]. - The earnings payout ratio is 77%, calculated from annual dividends of $6.44 against trailing twelve-month earnings per share of $8.36, indicating manageable levels [1]. - For fiscal 2025, BMO paid $5.03 billion in dividends against $8.51 billion in free cash flow, resulting in a 59% free cash flow payout ratio, which is considered healthy [1]. Cash Flow and Coverage - Operating cash flow for BMO was $10.24 billion, exceeding the dividend outlay by more than 2 times, demonstrating strong coverage [1]. - The bank maintained its dividend even during quarters with negative operating cash flow in Q2 and Q3 2025, relying on cash reserves [1]. Balance Sheet and Leverage - BMO's balance sheet shows $88.1 billion in shareholder equity against $1.48 trillion in total assets, with a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.71x, which is elevated but typical for large banks [1]. - The CET1 ratio stands at 13.3%, indicating a well-capitalized position despite a slight decrease from the previous quarter [1]. Management Confidence - CEO Darryl White expressed confidence in future growth and shareholder returns, highlighting the bank's share repurchase of 8 million shares during Q4 2025 [1]. - The combination of buybacks and dividends returned nearly all free cash flow to shareholders in fiscal 2025, reflecting management's confidence [1]. Dividend Sustainability - BMO's dividend appears secure, supported by earnings and free cash flow, with a 59% FCF payout ratio providing room for economic softness [1]. - The 27-year payment streak and recent 5% increase indicate management's confidence in sustaining the dividend through normal business cycles [1].