Japan dividends heading to record high on chip, AI gains

EquitiesPayouts expected to attract overseas capital and boost household incomesStepped-up dividends are set to lift the total to a sixth consecutive annual high. (Photo by Rie Ishii)CHIAKI NAKATAAugust 13, 2026 06:28 JSTTOKYO -- Japan's listed companies are poised to raise their combined dividends by 6% on the year to a sixth straight record high, with just under half paying out more, amid boosts from chip and artificial intelligence gains.