Pfizer declares first-quarter dividend

Pfizer has declared a $0.32 (0.21 pounds) first-quarter dividend.

Unchanged from the fourth-quarter, it is set to be payable to shareholders on March 3rd next year, of record at the close of business on February 6th.

The company has a yield of 7.6 per cent and so Pfizer’s dividend is the highest in the drug industry, though investors of the organisation are trading at ten-year lows.

Earlier this month, Pfizer and Sigma-Tau entered into a license and supply agreement.

The deal is set to see the marketing of Eurartesim, a novel fixed dose artemisinim-based combination therapy.

A phase III product candidate, the drug is for the treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria in adults and children – and reduces the potential for re-infection.

Speaking at the time, Jean-Michel Halfron, president and general manager of emerging markets at Pfizer, said the company was “excited” about its collaboration agreement with Sigma-Tau.

He added: “The effective treatment of malaria, a preventable and treatable disease, is an essential need for patients in many countries.”

Mr Halfron went on to say the agreement “supports Pfizer’s vision to serve the needs of patients”.

In 2007, Pfizer’s revenues were $48.4 billion (32.3 billion pounds).