Why did Wells Fargo downgrade Eastman Chemical stock?

Wells Fargo downgraded Eastman Chemical due to concerns about 'trough-like conditions' in the chemicals sector, citing slow recovery in China and weak housing markets.

What is Eastman Chemical's new quarterly dividend amount?

Eastman Chemical's new quarterly dividend is $0.84 per share, an increase from the previous $0.83 per share.

How long has Eastman Chemical been increasing its dividend?

Eastman Chemical has increased its quarterly dividend for 16 consecutive years.

Home / Business and Economy / Wells Fargo Dims Outlook, Yet EMN Boosts Shareholder Payout

Wells Fargo Dims Outlook, Yet EMN Boosts Shareholder Payout

24 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Eastman Chemical's dividend was raised for the 16th consecutive year.
Wells Fargo downgraded Eastman Chemical due to sector-wide 'trough-like conditions'.
The company's dividend increased to $0.84 per share, effective January 8, 2026.

Wells Fargo Dims Outlook, Yet EMN Boosts Shareholder Payout

Eastman Chemical Company (EMN) has announced a modest increase in its quarterly dividend, raising it to $0.84 per share from $0.83. This dividend, scheduled for payment on January 8, 2026, to shareholders of record as of December 15, 2025, represents the 16th consecutive year the company has enhanced its shareholder payout. This action underscores the board's confidence in the company's ability to generate consistent earnings and maintain strong cash flow, even amid a difficult operating environment.

However, this positive shareholder update followed a significant analyst downgrade. On December 19, Wells Fargo revised its rating for Eastman Chemical to Equal Weight from Overweight, maintaining a $70 price target. This decision was part of a broader reassessment of the chemicals sector, with Wells Fargo downgrading four companies due to industry checks indicating "trough-like conditions" that may persist into the first half of 2026.