Figures from Link Group show dividend payouts by UK companies have rocketed—but one expert warns that they may not be the best option.

As UK government proposals increase responsibilities for directors, our latest podcast discusses the impact on internal controls and dividends.

The reforms will place renewed scrutiny on boards, audit committees and their work—and it’s essential that boards review the key issues.

Analysts predict UK firms are likely to pay out £32.7bn in dividends between now and June 2021—although many boards are debating the ethics.

The Covid-19 crisis saw dividend payments cut by 57% in the second quarter of this year, as many companies took action to protect balance sheets.

UK politicians have urged the chancellor to exclude businesses using tax havens from state aid, with a moratorium on dividends and curbs on CEO pay.

The current challenging context will reveal to companies which of their shareholders have a long-term view—and which do not.

Schroders and Hermes EOS warn boards that top executives must “share the pain” of the economic downturn, with pay “aligned with the experience of the wider workforce”.

Open letter from the Investment Association details how members will help to “keep corporate Britain working”, with guidance on executive pay, dividends and financial reporting.

Watchdog says investors expect companies “to articulate their expectations of the possible impacts on their specific business” amid Covid-19 crisis.