$COST · COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW
Costco's board declared a $30 per-share special cash dividend (~$13.3 billion total), payable December 4, 2026 to holders of record November 24, 2026. The board also reauthorized a $4 billion common-stock repurchase program expiring November 2030, replacing the 2023 $4 billion program (expiring January 2027) under which $3.1 billion had been purchased. Separately, director Helena B. Foulkes resigned effective November 7, 2026, citing her election as governor of Rhode Island, not any disagreement.
- Special cash dividend of $30 per share, approximately $13.3 billion total.
- Payable December 4, 2026 to shareholders of record November 24, 2026.
- New $4 billion buyback reauthorized, expiring November 2030.
- Replaces 2023 $4 billion program under which $3.1 billion was purchased.
- Director Helena B. Foulkes resigned after being elected governor of Rhode Island.
Extended-hours last trade $1083.00, up +1.58% vs regular close and +1.59% vs price at filing, signaling a positive reaction to the special dividend and buyback reauthorization.
A $13.3 billion special dividend plus a fresh $4 billion buyback signals strong cash generation and shareholder-return commitment at a $472B market cap.
Costco's special dividend follows its pattern of large one-time payouts (e.g., $15/share in 2023), returning excess cash to shareholders alongside a refreshed buyback.
The $13.3 billion payout is a substantial cash outlay; forward-looking statements flag inflation, tariffs, geopolitical conditions, and consumer spending as risks to future results.