Apple: A Good Dividend Stock with Low Dividend Yield

Apple Dividend Stock Analysis

Apple dividend growth has been attractive in recent years. And, Apple stock continues to trade at a high price.

So, let’s take a close look at all of the Apple dividend metrics and its stock too. I will do this by walking through an Apple dividend stock analysis.

Some questions I want to answer…

Disclosure: At no cost to you, I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Is Apple a dividend stock? And if so, is Apple a good dividend stock?

What about Apple dividend growth and safety? Is it time to buy Apple stock? Or, is the stock price too high?

These are just a few questions I want to address. And I will do so with the aid of my Simply Investing report.

I subscribe to the Simply Investing Report & Analysis Platform. And you may like to read my review: The tools Simply Investing provides a dividend investor.

But before we dig into Apple’s details, I want to point out a few highlights for you from this article…

Apple Stock Review: Key Takeaways

1. Having paid increasing quarterly cash dividends since 2012, yes, Apple is a dividend stock.

2. However, because of the rapid rise in Apple’s stock price, its dividend yield is low. Thus, not providing much income per dollar invested.

3. On the other hand, the combination of regular, rising dividends and large increases in the stock price has made Apple an excellent investment for long-term total returns.

4. But, the rise in the stock comes at a price. That being valuation. Leaving me to debate if now is the right time to add to my shares.

5. Regardless, and in my opinion, Apple stock represents a solid long-term stock to hold in a dividend portfolio.

Ready to buy or sell Apple? Or any stock for that matter?

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There’s much more. So let’s dive in. We will start with a brief review of the company’s operations.

Apple: Company Background

Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Apple is in the business of mobile communication devices, media devices, and personal computers.

In addition, they sell a variety of products related to software, services, accessories, networking solutions, and third-party digital content and applications.

The company’s hardware products include the:

iPhone smartphone
iPad tablet computer
Mac personal computer
Apple Watch
Apple TV

Apple’s software includes:

macOS, iOS, watchOS, and tvOS operating systems
iCloud
Apple Pay

Digital content and services are composed of the:

Apple Music
iTunes Store
App Store
Mac App Store
TV App Store
iBooks Store

Now, a few words about Apple stock. Then we will move on to the Apple dividend.

Apple Stock Split History

Apple stock has split 5 times during its history as a public company. The most recent Apple stock split was on a 4 for 1 basis. This was done in August 2020.

Stock splits have little economic consequence. They merely function to bring the stock price down to a lower level.

At the same time increasing the number of shares outstanding. Therefore, market capitalization, reflecting the companies value, remains the same.

What about a shareholder at the time of the split? Once again, nothing happens that has an economic consequence.

Using my Apple shares held in August as an example…

After the stock split, I had 4 times as many shares. With a per-share value of 25% of the pre-split stock price. And now receive dividends worth 25% of the old Apple dividend rate per share.

Thus, the same amount of cash is in my pocket from dividend payments.

To emphasize, as a current shareholder. A stock split has little to no economic value.

Apple Stock Symbol

Finally, Apple stock trades on the Nasdaq stock exchange. It trades under the ticker symbol AAPL (NASDAQ: AAPL).

Next up. Let’s review all the knowledge needed about dividends on Apple stock.

Does Apple Pay A Dividend?

Yes. Apple pays a dividend.

There are 2 rules here at Dividends Diversify. First of all, we only review stocks that pay dividends. Furthermore, I personally invest in every stock that we review.

Only investing in dividend-paying stocks is one of my money management philosophies. Other money rules I live by are to manage my money proactively, online, and for free.

To do this, I use Personal Capital. You can too. Since Personal Capital is free to sign up and use.

Next, let’s work through the dividend metrics. Then we will know exactly how Apple’s dividend works.

Apple Dividend Per Share

Like most any stock that pays dividends, Apple has an annual forward dividend rate per share.

The forward dividend is the most recent quarterly dividend paid. Multiplied by the 4 calendar quarters the company pays dividends each year.

By taking the forward dividend and dividing it by the stock price we get the Apple dividend yield…

Apple Dividend Yield

Historically, Apple has had a very low dividend yield.

And when a stock’s dividend yield is so low. It makes me question whether there are better dividend investments for passive income to invest in.

Let’s explore this thought a bit more…

Why Is The Apple Dividend So Low?

There are 2 things that change a stock’s dividend yield. First of all, a change in the annual dividend rate per share. That is authorized by the company’s board of directors. Or, a change in the stock price.

Furthermore, changes to a stock’s annual dividend rate are infrequent. So, most changes to the dividend yield are due to fluctuations in a stock’s price.

Finally, a stock’s dividend yield moves in the opposite direction of the stock price.

Apple’s stock price has risen dramatically over the long run. What is the result? Apple’s dividend percentage has decreased.

I prefer to purchase stocks with higher dividend yields. The best dividend stocks for me have yields between 3%-5%. But, I do make exceptions to this rule. Especially for such a high-quality company as Apple.

Let’s continue our Apple stock analysis. And review a few other facts about the Apple dividend.

How Often Does Apple Pay Dividends?

Apple’s dividend frequency is every 3 months or 4 times per year. Each quarterly dividend payment is one-fourth of the annual rate.

What Is The Apple Dividend Schedule?

Here are some of Apple’s key dividend dates. That you want to be aware of.

First of all, Apple pays dividends in the following months: February, May, August, and November.

Furthermore, during these months, the Apple dividend is paid on or around the 15th day.

Finally, historically the dividend is always paid on a Thursday.

So, the actual payment date can range between the 12th day and the 18th day. During the month’s Apple pays dividends.

Since Apple’s dividend payable dates can vary. It is a good practice to check its investor relations website.

Or, their latest dividend announcement press release. These sources will provide the exact date for each quarterly dividend that is approved and upcoming.

When Is The Apple Ex-Dividend Date?

As a potential new shareholder or one looking to make an add-on buy, you may want to receive the next dividend payment from Apple. To do so, you must complete your investment before the ex-dividend date.

Apple’s ex-dividend date falls on Friday prior to when its dividend is paid.

Once again, refer to Apple’s website for the precise date. Or its quarterly press release announcing the next dividend.

On the other hand, by being a long-term buy-and-hold investor in Apple stock. Then you will be sure to receive every dividend the company approves, declares, and pays.

So, let’s talk about the dividend history of Apple next…

When Did Apple Start Paying Dividends?

The answer to his question is, it depends. Depends on what?

Whether you want to know the first time Apple started paying dividends. Or, the second.

I will assume we are talking about the second time. That being the case, Apple’s recent dividend history started in 2012.

Apple Will Likely Become A Dividend Achiever

Also, Apple management has increased the dividend each year since it was reinitiated in 2012.

I expect Apple to become a Dividend Achiever in the near future. Dividend Achievers are stocks with increasing dividends for 10 years in a row or more.

But there is a little more to Apple’s dividend history. Versus what has happened since 2012. Let me explain…

Apple Dividend History

Prior to 2012, the company paid a dividend to its shareholders. They did so from 1987 to 1995.

After 1995, the Apple dividend was suspended. Until it was reinstated in 2012.

It is clear management has debated. The benefits and drawbacks of paying dividends.

Apple Dividend Growth Rate

We know that Apple’s dividend percentage is very low. When this is the case, I want this stock to have fast dividend growth.

Let’s say 8% each year or more.

Table 1: Apple Compound Annual Dividend Growth Rate

1 Year	3 Years	5 Years	7 Years
6.9%	7.7%	9.3%	9.4%

Because organic dividend growth is important. It’s 1 of the 3 concepts in building dividend wealth.

As the table above shows, over the long run, Apple’s dividend growth has met my expectations.

But what about the last 1 or 2 Apple dividend raises?

Recent Apple Dividend Increase

First of all, I thought the last couple of Apple dividend increases were on the low side.

So, I am anxious to learn about the next Apple dividend increase and the new payout rate.

For the record, Apple typically announces its dividend increases in late April. Or early May.

This company’s business fundamentals and cash flow are strong. So, I think investors deserve larger dividend increases than what has been offered the last few years.

Can dividend policy give us any clues? About the future of Apple’s dividend? Let’s see…

Apple Dividend Policy

To the best of my knowledge, Apple does not communicate a formal dividend policy to the public. On the other hand, I prefer it when a company is transparent about its intentions for dividends.

But, Apple’s approach is not a red flag. Many companies operate this way.

I do know this. This company is very proud of the cash returned to shareholders in the form of dividends and share repurchases. They routinely update and present a schedule on their website that shows their history in this area.

But Apple does have a dividend policy. Even if they choose not to communicate it to us. And from looking at Apple’s actions, I can put together a dividend policy statement on their behalf.

These are my words. Not Apple’s…

The dividend policy of Apple is to:

1. Pay recurring cash dividends quarterly

2. Announce an increase to the quarterly dividend annually during the 2nd calendar quarter of the year.

3. Share approximately 15-25% of accounting earnings to reward stockholders in the form of dividend payments.

Actions speak louder than words, as the saying goes. And this is how Apple has been operating. Since it reinitiated the dividend in 2012.

On the other hand, it is important to understand one thing as it relates to dividend policy.

Specifically, companies are not required to pay dividends. And a company may change its dividend policy at any time.

Apple Dividend Growth Is Supported By Revenue Gains

Apple’s revenue hit a historical peak in 2015 at $234 billion. During 2016, as revenue declined there were concerns about the future revenue-generating capacity of the company.

Chart 1: Apple 7-Year Revenue Trend

First Revenue Uncertainty

At the time, the iPhone accounted for a very large portion of the company’s revenue and profit. The smartphone market was maturing. And their competition was catching up.

In addition, customers were upgrading their phones less frequently. This was mainly due to the annual changes from phone to phone becoming less dramatic.

As sales slumped, so did the stock price. The stock made a bottom in the low $20s per share (split-adjusted) in early 2016.

Then Apple Revenue Growth Resumes

Since then, revenues and the stock have taken off. The company has gone through a fundamental transformation.

They have turned a business centered on how many devices it ships. Into one built around high-end features and services for those devices.

Revenue peaked again in fiscal 2018 checking in at a little over $265 billion. After a pause in revenue growth for 2019. Revenue growth has been dramatic!

Revenue & Product Pricing

Finally, Apple has implemented a premium pricing strategy with its newer iPhones.

High prices may protect and even enhance their profit margins. On the other hand, higher prices may come at the expense of lower unit volumes in future years.

Apple Dividend Payout Ratio Based On Earnings

Apple’s earnings have been strong. They have grown nicely in the past 7 years. As the chart below shows.

Chart 2: Apple Dividends And Earnings Per Share

Based on earnings, Apple’s dividend payout ratio is running about 15%. This is certainly a very secure level from my perspective.

A lower dividend payout ratio, like Apple’s, is a positive metric. It shows the company has ample room to raise the dividend in the coming years. Or, withstand an earnings drop without having to reduce the dividend.

Apple Dividend Payout Ratio Based On Cash Flow

Apple generates plenty of free cash flow. Most recently the dividend consumed just a small fraction of that cash.

Chart 3: Apple Dividends And Cash Flows

Management directs most of their excess cash toward share repurchases. That’s another shareholder-friendly practice along with paying dividends.

However, I would prefer if some of that cash was directed toward dividend increases. Since the company has more than enough dividend payment capacity to do so.

So let’s discuss the future of Apple’s dividend.

With all of the dividend metrics, we have reviewed. And the business fundamentals, I’m in a position to take a shot at predicting Apple’s dividend future.

Apple Dividend Growth Forecast

Given the modest payout ratios, the Apple dividend rate has room to be increased even if earnings growth stalls out.

But, I do not expect profits to falter. Earnings may not grow as fast as they have over the past seven years. But they should grow 8-10% annually.

Then by holding the dividend payout ratio constant. Shareholders would be rewarded with a similar amount of dividend growth.

So, for my planning purposes, I am going to assume an 8-9% annual Apple dividend growth rate in future years.

I think this is a very sustainable level of dividend payment growth. And will bring it more in line with the past 5 and 7-year compound annual growth rate trends. Versus the last 2 Apple dividend increases that were lower.

But, we need management to make it happen. Easier said than done, I suppose.

Maybe I will be surprised by higher dividend growth. Unlike other slower growth technology stocks that pay dividends.

Next, let’s check on Apple’s financial position. I have a feeling it will be very strong. But let’s complete our due diligence.

We will look at credit ratings. And, capital structure in the form of debt to equity.

Apple Credit Rating

Apple carries an Aa1 and AA+ credit rating from Moody’s and S&P, respectively. This is a very strong credit rating of “investment grade – very low credit risk.”

It’s a good idea to check the credit ratings for the stocks you own. Just like it is a good idea to check your personal credit score.

You can check your credit score for free. Using Credit Karma.

Table 2: Credit Rating Evaluation Grid

Apple’s credit rating is nearly triple-A. A company with AAA credit represents the highest possible rating awarded.

Only two US companies hold the highest triple-A credit rating. They are Johnson & Johnson and software company, Microsoft.

So, based on the credit rating, it is pretty clear that Apple will be able to meet both its short-term and long-term obligations as they come due.

Apple Balance Sheet

Strictly speaking, Apple carries a debt-to-equity ratio of 2 to 1. As of the end of its last fiscal year. But that doesn’t tell the full story.

What I mean by that is Apple also carries a large amount of cash and short-term marketable securities on its balance sheet. If the company management chose to, they could pay off a larger portion of the debt with these liquid assets.

So, taking the credit ratings and capital structure from the balance sheet into account, Apple has a very strong financial position.

And what does this strong financial position provide? Dividend safety. A few words on that topic next…

Apple Dividend Safety

The Apple dividend appears very safe from a reduction in the foreseeable future. I base this assessment on a number of areas we have reviewed so far.

Specifically,

The company’s solid business fundamentals
Apple’s dividend rate compared to earnings and cash flow (payout ratios)
Apple’s dividend history and a low dividend yield
High credit ratings and strong balance sheet

So, we have spent a lot of time on Apple’s dividend.

But an Apple stock analysis would not be complete without looking at the stock’s valuation.

We will check that area next. And then wrap this up.

Apple Stock Valuation

I like to judge a stock value with several methods and sources. Then draw my own conclusions about value.

So, we will review:

Apple dividend discount model
Apple stock price to earnings ratio
Morningstar fair value estimate of Apple stock
Simply Investing Report

Note that this valuation discussion is at the time of this article update. Furthermore, value metrics can change quickly as stock prices and business circumstances shift.

So, the Simply Investing Report is a great resource. For an always up-to-date call on valuation.

Apple Dividend Discount Model

The single-stage dividend discount model considers several factors we have covered thus far. And one item we have not. They are…

Current annual dividend payment
Projected Apple dividend growth
My desired annual return on investment

Using the dividend discount model assumptions above, the calculation indicates Apple stock is overvalued.

This is not surprising to me. Because of Apple’s low dividend percentage.

Morningstar Fair Value Analysis Of Apple Stock

The investment analysis firm Morningstar believes Apple stock is fairly valued at $130 per share.

Source: Morningstar

Simply Investing Report

The Simply Investing report assesses stock valuation using these metrics:

Stock price to earnings ratio
The current dividend yield versus historical dividend yield
Stock price to book ratio

Stocks meeting their criteria using these metrics are considered to be undervalued and trading at an attractive price for purchase.

But based on my last check of the Simply Investing report. Apple stock is considered overvalued.

Apple Stock Price to Earnings Ratio

The Apple stock price to the last year’s earnings sits in the high 20’s. Not bad given the company’s impressive track record of growth.

But, it doesn’t seem that long ago when Apple’s price to earnings was in the teens. Back in the day when its growth prospects were being questioned.

Is It A Good Time To Buy Apple Stock?

We have looked at several valuation methods. And it appears the stock is overvalued at the time of this article update.

Furthermore, the low dividend yield is an additional consideration for me. Leading to my investment conclusion…

Apple Stock: Buy Or Sell Or Hold

I have no plans to buy Apple stock at this time. On the other hand, Apple is a great company.

So, I am happy to be a long-time Apple shareholder. And intend to hold my shares. Having no intention to sell anytime in the foreseeable future.

Apple Stock Analysis Conclusions & Wrap Up

Apple stock has grown to a mid-size dividend stock holding in my dividend investing portfolio. But the low dividend yield and the recent sub-par dividend increases during the last few years lead me to this question…

Is Apple A Good Dividend Stock?

Apple isn’t a typical dividend stock, in my opinion. First of all, it doesn’t operate in a traditional steady demand industry like consumer staples or utilities. Thus, you probably won’t be able to fund your retirement expenses from Apple’s dividend payments.

Furthermore, the company’s growth is partly dependent on managing short product life cycles. Also, continual and consistent product and service innovation are required for growth.

However, I believe Apple is a good dividend stock. It can be a solid holding in a dividend portfolio for regular income.

Finally, the company is building a long track record of dividend increases. But, the Apple dividend percentage is lower than I prefer. And, lower than more traditional dividend stocks. But, dividend growth and share price appreciation have more than made up for that.

So, I will let this winner ride on in my portfolio. But look to put new money in other dividend investment ideas for now. There are many other good dividend-paying stocks in the market for me to consider before adding to Apple at this time.

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Disclosure & Disclaimer

Author Bio, Disclosure, & Disclaimer: Please join me (Tom) as I try to achieve my goals, find my next place to live, and make the most of my money. But understand, I am not a licensed investment adviser, financial adviser, real estate agent, or tax professional. I’m a 50-something-year-old guy, CPA, retired finance professional, and part-time business school teacher with 40+ years of DIY investing experience. I’m just here because I enjoy sharing my findings and research on important topics. However, nothing published on this site should be considered individual investment advice, financial guidance, or tax counsel. Because this website’s only purpose is general information & entertainment. As a result, neither I nor Dividends Diversify can be held liable for any losses suffered by any party because of the information published on this blog. Finally, all written content is the property of Dividends Diversify LLC. Unauthorized publication elsewhere is strictly prohibited.