Effect of Dividend Policy on Firm Performance and Stockholders Wealth: Evidence from Listed Firms on Pakistan Stock Exchange

Abstract

The study investigates the relationship between dividend policy, firm performance, and stockholders’ wealth in the context of listed firms on the Pakistan Stock Exchange. Dividend policy decisions are critical for firms as they directly affect shareholders’ wealth and provide insights into a company’s financial health and management’s confidence in prospects. The study utilizes a comprehensive dataset comprising financial information, Data collected for companies from the DataStream for the period 2010 and 2020. A sample of 100 corporations listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange was chosen by including firms that have paid dividends for ten years in a row and have consistent payout practices. Various financial indicators such as return on equity (ROE), earnings per share (EPS), and dividend per share (DPS) and Dividend Yield (DY) are employed to measure firm performance and stockholders’ wealth. Using advanced econometric techniques, including descriptive analysis, correlation analysis and regression analysis, the study assesses the impact of dividend policy on firm performance and stockholders’ wealth. The study’s outcomes have implications for investors, managers, and policymakers in Pakistan, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding dividend distributions and their potential impact on various stakeholders. By gaining insights into the relationship between dividend policy and these key performance indicators, firms can make more informed decisions regarding dividend distributions and develop strategies to maximize stockholders’ wealth while maintaining financial stability.