Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO) remains a cornerstone holding for Warren Buffett, who has described the beverage giant as one of Berkshire Hathaway’s (NYSE: BRK.A) ‘forever’ stocks.
Buffett first built a significant position in KO in 1988 and has never sold a share since, frequently citing the company’s brand strength.
At present, Berkshire Hathaway owns 400 million KO shares worth about $26.5 billion, accounting for nearly 10% of the portfolio.
Indeed, KO stock remains a key dividend source for Buffett, even after he stepped back from the day-to-day leadership of the investment conglomerate.
As of the market close on February 9, KO shares traded at $77.97, down 1.34% on the day, while over the past year, Coca-Cola shares have rallied more than 20%.
KO stock dividend payment
For regular investors, KO continues its renowned dividend track record, with 64 consecutive years of increases qualifying it as a Dividend Aristocrat.
Notably, dividends are distributed quarterly, and the trailing yield stands at 2.62%, surpassing the consumer staples sector average of around 1.89%.
The forward annual payout is $2.04 per share, supported by a sustainable payout ratio of 58.96%. The average price recovery period after ex-dividend dates is 11.1 days.
Coca-Cola’s next regular quarterly dividend is estimated at $0.51 per share, unchanged from the prior declaration paid on December 15, 2025. The payment is scheduled for April 1, 2026, to shareholders of record as of the relevant ex-dividend date.
For a holder of 100 shares at current price levels, the upcoming April 1 dividend would deliver $51 in cash. On an annual basis, those 100 shares would generate approximately $204 in dividends, providing a 2.62% yield.
Coca-Cola’s performance continues to be supported by its appeal as a defensive, high-quality name in uncertain markets.
Coca-Cola Q4 2025 results
As things stand, investors are now looking ahead to the company’s Q4 2025 earnings, slated for release after the market close on February 10.
Ahead of the report, Coca-Cola is also set to enter a leadership transition, with longtime Chief Operating Officer Henrique Braun preparing to take over as CEO, succeeding James Quincey after a nine-year tenure. Braun is scheduled to assume the role on March 31.
The company is expected to post fourth-quarter revenue of about $12 billion, representing a 4% increase from a year earlier. Adjusted earnings per share are projected to rise by $0.02 to $0.57, reflecting modest profit growth.
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