Kimberly-Clark raises dividend for 54th year amid $48.7B Kenvue acquisition, testing payout sustainability.

Kimberly-Clark extended its dividend increase streak to 54 years while pursuing a $48.7 billion acquisition of Kenvue. The company currently pays over $1.6 billion annually in dividends, raising concerns about whether it can maintain this payout alongside the large deal. Despite the acquisition adding debt and cash demands, the board raised the dividend again, signaling confidence. Investors will watch leverage levels, free cash flow coverage, and future dividend raises to see if the streak continues.