Biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca plc (STO:AZN) (LON:AZN) (Nasdaq:AZN) announced on Thursday a 7% increase in its annualised dividend for 2024, raising it by USD0.20 to USD3.10 per share.

This decision reflects the company's confidence in its performance and cash generation, taking into account other capital allocation priorities as well as acquisitions and business development.

The dividend payment schedule remains unchanged, with announcements made alongside half-year and full-year results and paid in September and March, respectively.

The board also reaffirmed its commitment to AstraZeneca's progressive dividend policy.