4/6/2026
By Charles Payne, CEO & Principal Analyst

Corporate is stepping in as a flurry of stock-buyback announcements filled the Street in the first quarter of 2026 (Q126). Fintech companies signaled optimism despite a recent decline in share prices. Walmart (WMT) replaced its $20 billion authorization with a $30 billion program. Salesforce (CRM) went even bigger, with a $50 billion repurchase. This activity can make investors have high expectations for shareholder returns heading into the earnings season. 

The first quarter of 2026 so far has been the strongest quarter for dividend announcement increases since the first quarter of 2019 (Q19). It suggests optimism about cash flows in 2026, as corporations enter the year with positive earnings guidance and a stronger balance sheet.

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Karina Hernandez
Wall Street Strategies