Discussion:
1. What has occurred with Wal Mart's dividend payout, dividend yield, and dividend per share over the past three years (2012-2014)? Do you have any explanations for what has occurred?
2. How does Wal Mart dividend payout, dividend yield, and dividend per share compare to other companies in its industry? Has the company's dividend strategy been similar to other companies in its industry?
3. You are now to use Excel and plot your Wal Mart's earnings anddividends over the past three years. Do you notice any patterns?
4. What is your estimate for Wal Mart's dividend per share next year? Please justify why you made that decision.
5. Would you estimate that Wal Mart has an effective cash managementstrategy? Why or why not? Please justify your decision.