Qualcomm Announces $20 Billion Buyback, Boosts Dividend

The chipmaker plans to repurchase shares and increase quarterly payouts to shareholders.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:18pm

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Qualcomm Inc., the largest maker of smartphone processors, has announced a new $20 billion share repurchase program and is raising its quarterly cash dividend from $0.89 to $0.92 per share. The San Diego-based company's board has approved the buyback, which adds to previous repurchase plans, and the increased dividend payout will take effect after March 26.

Why it matters

The move signals Qualcomm's confidence in its long-term outlook and ability to generate strong cash flows. Share buybacks and dividend increases are common ways for mature tech companies to return capital to shareholders and boost their stock price.

The details

Qualcomm, a leading supplier of chips for smartphones and other mobile devices, is undertaking the $20 billion share repurchase program in addition to previous buyback plans announced in November 2024. The company is also raising its quarterly dividend payment to shareholders from $0.89 to $0.92 per share, increasing the annualized payout to $3.68 per share.

  • Qualcomm's new $20 billion buyback program was approved by the company's board.
  • The increased quarterly dividend of $0.92 per share will take effect after March 26, 2026.

The players

Qualcomm Inc.

The largest maker of smartphone processors and a leading supplier of chips for mobile devices.

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The takeaway

Qualcomm's decision to significantly increase its share buybacks and dividend payouts demonstrates the company's financial strength and confidence in its ability to continue generating substantial cash flows, even as the smartphone market faces increasing competition and economic uncertainty.