Microsoft is reviewing what to do with its cash pile. Microsoft is considering paying a special dividend of $10 billion, the largest corporate payout on record, to slim down its cash reserves of more than $46 billion. It has also been reviewing other options, including acquisitions - and while there is frequently speculation concerning takeovers, it could be a risky strategy for Microsoft to take. Under pressure from shareholders anxious to extract greater value from the world's best performing major company, Microsoft is reported to be mulling over four options. It is looking at a share buyback, acquisitions, a higher annual dividend or a "special dividend" that could top the $10 billion mark. This could come in a single lump or may be spread over several quarters.
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