TotalEnergies announces increased dividends and share buybacks

TotalEnergies has announced an expansive financial strategy focused on increasing shareholder returns. The company plans to raise its annual dividend by more than 5% annually from 2026 through 2030. Additionally, the group has scheduled significant share buybacks, including a $2.5 billion program set for the fourth quarter of 2026.

CEO Patrick Pouyanné highlighted the exceptional performance of the company's European refineries, describing them as “gold mines” this year. The facilities are operating at full capacity to meet high global demand for diesel and aviation fuel. To maximize output, the company has even decided to postpone certain maintenance operations, such as those planned for the Normandy refinery.

While the company aims to strengthen its balance sheet by reducing its debt ratio to below 10%, the announcement of high profits and rising dividends comes amid rising fuel prices for consumers, sparking public debate regarding the gap between corporate profitability and household costs.