Costco's Last Stock Split Was in 2000. Is Its Board Close to Another?

Costco Wholesale has not split its stock since 2000, and the company's board may not be close to approving another split. Analysts and shareholders have asked about a split on earnings calls and annual meetings, but Costco has not announced any plans for a split. CFO Gary Millerchip stated that a split is not currently on the table and that the economic arguments for splits are less clear due to the availability of fractional shares for retail investors and employees.

CEO Ron Vachris echoed this sentiment during the company's annual meetings, stating that there is no update on a split and that the topic is regularly reviewed with the board. Costco's stock price has increased significantly since the last split in 2000, and the company's earnings growth is accelerating, which could make a split less appealing to shareholders.

Additionally, Costco's dividend yield is relatively low, making a special dividend payout the more attractive option for shareholders at this time. While a split is not impossible, it does not seem to be a priority for Costco's leadership at this moment.