1. Applied Materials announced a 15% increase in its quarterly cash dividend, marking eight consecutive years of higher dividends. 2. The company also approved a new $10 billion share repurchase authorization. 3. The move reflects confidence in the company's business prospects and its ability to distribute excess cash to shareholders.

1. Broadcom reported a bottom line beat, 51% revenue growth, and strong free cash flow in its Q4 earnings report, driven by AI spending. 2. The company announced a partnership with Apple to develop custom AI server chips, enhancing its position in the growing AI hardware market. 3. Broadcom raised its dividend by 11% and provided strong revenue guidance for Q1 FY 2025, indicating continued growth potential.

1. Philip Morris International has raised its dividend by 3.8% to $5.40/share annually, but the author rates the stock as a Hold due to limited upside potential. 2. Despite $49.15 billion in debt, PM's dividend is safe, supported by strong free cash flow. 3. Smoke-free products now contribute 38.3% of revenues, with a goal of over two-thirds by 2030, driving future growth.