Yum Brands increases dividend by 19 percent and shares jump to 52-week high

Yum bumps dividend and shares hit 52-week high

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Yum Brands Inc. has increased its quarterly dividend by 19 percent, the company said Tuesday.

The operator of KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Long John Silver’s said its consistent performance and substantial free cash flow enabled it to increase its dividend from 21 to 25 cents per share.

On Tuesday, shares quickly hit a new 52-week high of $46.25.

The dividend will be distributed Nov. 5 to shareholders of record as of Oct. 15.