#United States #Columbus #dividend increase #Financial Services #Aflac Inc

Aflac Incorporated Increases First Quarter 2026 Dividend

Aflac Incorporated (NYSE: AFL) recently made headlines by announcing a 5.2% increase in its dividend for the first quarter of 2026. The company’s Board of Directors has declared a dividend of $0.61 per share, which will be payable on March 2, 2026. The record date for shareholders is set for the close of business on February 18, 2026. This significant increment marks a continued commitment to shareholder value, as it is the latest addition to Aflac's impressive record of 43 consecutive years of dividend increases.

Chairman and CEO Daniel P. Amos expressed his satisfaction with the Board's decision. He highlighted Aflac's dedication to sustaining a robust dividend, aligning it with the company's solid capital and cash flow situation. “We treasure our record of consecutive dividend growth and balance our financial strength with our responsibility to fulfill promises to policyholders,” said Amos. He underscored the importance of maintaining strong capital ratios, which, in turn, allows the company to effectively manage liquidity and apply capital wisely.

Aflac Incorporated, a Fortune 500 company, has played a pivotal role in providing financial protection and peace of mind to millions of policyholders over its 70-year history. In the United States, Aflac stands as the number one provider of supplemental health insurance products, while in Japan, it holds the top position in cancer and medical insurance policies. This dual market presence complements Aflac's mission to support policyholders when they need assistance the most.

The company's reputation for ethical business practices is evidenced by its inclusion in the World's Most Ethical Companies list by Ethisphere for 19 consecutive years, alongside being recognized in Fortune's World's Most Admired Companies for 24 years. These accolades reflect Aflac's dedication not only to its customers but also to the broader principles of corporate responsibility and effective governance.

Furthermore, Aflac has made strides in sustainability as a signatory of the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) since 2021 and has been a consistent member of the Dow Jones Sustainability North America Index for the last 11 years. This commitment to sustainable practices aligns with contemporary investment principles and community expectations regarding corporate conduct.

Looking forward, Aflac's management remains optimistic about future performance; however, they recognize the unpredictable environment surrounding global capital markets, inflation concerns, and the inherent risks of credit downgrades. They aim to navigate these challenges while continuing to uphold the company’s strong financial foundations and supporting their policyholders.

In conclusion, Aflac Incorporated's recent announcement of a dividend increase not only reflects its solid financial standing but also reinforces its long-term commitment to shareholders. The company's track record of consistent growth, ethical practices, and dedication to policyholder needs continues to position Aflac favorably within the competitive financial services landscape.