Sirius XM Radio Inc. (NASDAQ: SIRI) is doing something that sounds nothing short of silly on the surface. The satellite radio monopoly announced that it would initiate a one-time special dividend of five cents per share and that it would repurchase up to $2 billion worth of common stock. This sounds no different from what other companies have done, but this is odd from Sirius XM, considering that it usually offers no dividend and shares are still close to multiyear highs.
What matters here is that Liberty Media Corp. (NASDAQ: LMCA) is in the process of taking control of Sirius XM. That has yet to occur, but Liberty keeps acquiring more shares, and it should be considered that Mel Karmazin has already announced his intention to retire.
With a $14.4 billion market cap, today’s $2 billion buyback could translate to the Sirius looking to absorb about 14% of its float.
Sirius shares are indicated to open up by about 2.5% at $2.84, against a 52-week trading range of $1.70 to $2.97.
JON C. OGG
In 20 Years, I Haven’t Seen A Cash Back Card This Good
After two decades of reviewing financial products I haven’t seen anything like this. Credit card companies are at war, handing out free rewards and benefits to win the best customers.
A good cash back card can be worth thousands of dollars a year in free money, not to mention other perks like travel, insurance, and access to fancy lounges.
Our top pick today pays up to 5% cash back, a $200 bonus on top, and $0 annual fee. Click here to apply before they stop offering rewards this generous.
Flywheel Publishing has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Flywheel Publishing and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.