by Alimat Aliyeva
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. announced on Friday that its board
of directors had approved shareholder returns for 2026 totaling
between 90 trillion won and 110 trillion won, equivalent to
approximately $65 billion–$79.5 billion. The company described the
planned returns as the largest ever announced by a South Korean
company.
The package includes around 30 trillion won, or about $21.7
billion, in cash dividends for the third quarter. The remaining
amount will be determined by the board at a meeting scheduled for
January 2027.
Samsung said the record-breaking shareholder returns are
intended to ensure that the company’s growth provides tangible
benefits to investors. The strategy is designed to create a
positive cycle in which stronger business performance leads to
greater shareholder value and, in turn, supports long-term
confidence in the company.
The board also approved a 15 trillion won ($10.8 billion) share
buyback program to support employee compensation. Share buybacks
can reduce the number of shares in circulation, potentially
increasing the value of the remaining shares.
The announcement highlights Samsung’s strong financial position
and its growing focus on returning cash to investors. It also comes
as the company continues to invest heavily in semiconductors,
artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing
technologies.
Samsung is one of the world’s largest semiconductor
manufacturers, meaning its financial decisions can have an impact
far beyond South Korea. The company’s investments and spending
plans are closely watched by global technology and chip markets,
particularly as demand for AI-related hardware continues to
grow.