Altria Is the New Dividend Leader in the S&P 500. Shares Yield Nearly 8%. - Barron's

1. Altria becomes the S&P 500's dividend leader following Walgreens suspension. 2. Altria yields just under 8% with an 80% payout ratio. 3. Altria raised its dividend 4.1% in August, its 59th increase in 55 years. 4. CFO highlights over $10.2 billion returned to shareholders via dividends and buybacks. 5. Altria plans to boost dividends at mid-single digit rates through 2028.