Formula
Dividend per Share (DPS) = Total Ordinary Dividends Paid / Number of Ordinary Shares Outstanding
Where:
Total Ordinary Dividends = Cash dividends declared for ordinary shareholders
Ordinary Shares Outstanding = Number of ordinary shares entitled to dividends
Preference dividends are excluded because DPS focuses only on ordinary shareholders.
Explanation
Dividend per Share measures the cash dividend received by each ordinary share.
It shows how much profit is distributed to shareholders rather than retained in the business.
A higher DPS indicates:
- Strong cash position
- Shareholder-friendly dividend policy
- Stable earnings
A lower or zero DPS may indicate:
- Profits are retained for expansion
- Cash flow constraints
- Losses or conservative dividend policy
Satisfactory Level
There is no fixed “ideal” DPS. A satisfactory DPS:
- Is consistent or growing over time
- Is supported by earnings and cash flows
- Matches the company’s dividend policy and growth strategy
Investors often prefer stable dividends rather than high but irregular dividends.
Industry Norms (General Guidance)
DPS varies significantly by industry and company maturity.
| Industry | Typical DPS Pattern |
|---|---|
| Utilities | High and stable DPS |
| Banking & Finance | Moderate, consistent DPS |
| Manufacturing | Moderate DPS |
| Technology | Low or no DPS |
| Start-ups / Growth firms | Usually no DPS |
⚠️ DPS should always be analysed together with EPS and Dividend Payout Ratio.
Example
Modern More Berhad
- Total Ordinary Dividends Paid: RM200,000
- Ordinary Shares Outstanding: 1,000,000 shares
Step: Calculate DPS
DPS = 200,000 / 1,000,000 = RM0.20
Interpretation:
Each ordinary shareholder receives 20 sen per share as dividend for the year.
Summary
- DPS measures actual cash return to shareholders
- A company can have high EPS but low DPS (retained earnings)
Always assess DPS with:
- EPS
- Dividend Payout Ratio
- Cash flow from operations

