Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: All Information: Cash Dividends Charged to Retained Earnings This Quarter

QFR120INFUSNO • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

29,504.00

Year-over-Year Change

81.44%

Date Range

10/1/2009 - 1/1/2025

Summary

This economic indicator tracks the total cash dividends charged to retained earnings by U.S. corporations in a given quarter. It provides critical insight into corporate financial health, profitability, and shareholder distribution strategies.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

The metric represents the amount of corporate profits distributed to shareholders as cash dividends, which reflects companies' financial performance and strategic decisions about capital allocation. Economists and investors use this data to assess corporate financial strength and broader economic trends.

Methodology

Data is collected through comprehensive quarterly financial reports submitted by U.S. corporations to regulatory agencies, aggregated and analyzed by the Federal Reserve.

Historical Context

This trend is used by policymakers, investors, and economic analysts to understand corporate financial behavior, investment trends, and potential economic momentum.

Key Facts

  • Represents total cash dividends across all U.S. corporate sectors
  • Provides quarterly snapshot of corporate profit distribution
  • Reflects broader economic and corporate financial health

FAQs

Q: What do cash dividends indicate about a company's financial health?

A: Cash dividends suggest a company is profitable and confident enough to return money to shareholders. Consistent dividend payments often signal financial stability and strong earnings.

Q: How do cash dividends impact stock prices?

A: Dividend announcements can positively influence stock prices, as they demonstrate corporate profitability and commitment to shareholder returns. Investors often view regular dividends as a sign of financial strength.

Q: How is this data collection method verified?

A: The Federal Reserve uses standardized reporting requirements and cross-verification techniques to ensure accuracy and consistency in corporate financial reporting.

Q: How do policymakers use this dividend data?

A: Policymakers analyze dividend trends to understand corporate investment behavior, economic sentiment, and potential signals of economic expansion or contraction.

Q: How frequently is this data updated?

A: This data is typically updated quarterly, providing a regular snapshot of corporate financial distributions and economic trends.

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Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: All Information: Cash Dividends Charged to Retained Earnings This Quarter [QFR120INFUSNO], retrieved from FRED.

Last Checked: 8/1/2025