It surprised no one, but it was still welcome news for investors to see. Last week, (NASDAQ: PEP) announced it was increasing its dividend, just as it has dozens of times as part of its yearly fourth-quarter earnings update. The payout hike marked the 52nd consecutive annual boost for the beverage and snack giant, in fact.

There will be more payout increases ahead for this dominant business. But the higher dividend reflected both good and bad news about its recent operating trends. Here's what investors need to know about Pepsi's new quarterly cash payout.

Pepsi raised its annual dividend by 7% to $5.42 per share, which translates into a 3.2% forward yield. As generous as that hike might sound, it's a slowdown compared to last year, when management issued a 10% raise to shareholders.

Continue reading

Source Fool.com