Japan Inc. to return record $165bn to shareholders as profits rise

TOKYO -- Payouts to shareholders by listed companies in Japan are expected to reach an all-time high of about 25 trillion yen ($165 billion) for the fiscal year ending this month, amid growing earnings as well as pressure to use capital more effectively.

The total, which includes dividends and share repurchases, was calculated by Nikkei from 2,300 companies that close their books in March. The dividends are based on QUICK Consensus analyst forecasts for companies that have not provided estimates, and account for stock splits and reverse stock splits. The buybacks cover tender offers and plans disclosed since last April.