Coca-Cola's share price rises 27% in 2026. Are dividends still worth investing?

Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) performed well in 2026, with its share price up about 27% year-to-date. The company's operating cash flow in the first quarter of 2026 reached US$7.5 billion, and free cash flow was US$6.9 billion. Management has raised its full-year free cash flow forecast to US$12.4 billion. Coca-Cola increased its quarterly dividend to $0.53 per share in February and an annual dividend of $2.12, marking the 64th consecutive year the company has increased its dividend. Although the current yield of 2.4%-2.5% is not high, Coca-Cola's stable income and continued dividend growth expectations still attract income-oriented investors.