Baidu authorises $5 billion share buyback, expects to pay maiden dividend in 2026 (updated)

Baidu

05/02/2026 24:21

Adds further details from paragraph 2 onwards

Feb 5 (Reuters) - Baidu Inc 9888.HK, China's largest search engine operator, said on Thursday its board had approved a new $5 billion share repurchase programme running through December 31, 2028, and the adoption of its first-ever dividend policy.

Signalling a sharper focus on shareholder returns as growth in its core advertising business slows, the move underscores Baidu's strong cash position as it continues to invest in artificial intelligence and autonomous driving.

Baidu said the share buyback programme might be adjusted over time and that repurchases could be made in the open market or through other legally permissible means, subject to market conditions.

The board also said it expected to declare its first dividend in 2026, marking a shift towards more regular shareholder returns.

Any future dividend payments will be determined at the board's discretion, it said.

 (Reporting by Roushni Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Subhranshu Sahu)

 ((Roushni.Nair@thomsonreuters.com;))