Shareholder Value

Abbott announced its 406th consecutive quarterly dividend of $0.59 per share, payable August 15, 2025. This marks 53 consecutive years of dividend increases, highlighting Abbott’s financial strength and its inclusion in the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats Index. The consistent payouts, starting in 1924, underscore the company’s commitment to shareholder value.

Carnival Corporation & plc will release its Q2 2025 earnings on June 24, 2025, with a call at 10 AM EDT. The results, affecting brands like Carnival Cruise Line and Princess Cruises, will be accessible via website. Investors will analyze the performance of the world’s largest cruise company within the leisure travel market.

SWZ (formerly The Swiss Helvetia Fund) underwent a strategic shift in February 2025, embracing a total return objective under Bulldog Investors. The $92.4 million portfolio, as of May 2025, now includes Swiss, U.S., and a significant cash component (50.3%). A $3.00 special dividend was distributed in April. The fund’s performance reflecting its new strategy will be closely watched.