London, Jan 12, 2026, 08:30 GMT — Regular session
- Reckitt shares edged slightly in early London trading following a new buyback announcement
- On Jan. 9, the company repurchased 48,415 shares, paying an average of 6,196.07p each
- Investors are watching closely ahead of the Jan. 27 vote on a 235p special dividend and a share consolidation
Reckitt Benckiser Group plc (RKT.L) shares slipped slightly on Monday following a fresh update on its share buyback programme. By 0830 GMT, the stock had dipped 0.03% to 6,174 pence.
The buyback announcement comes as investors brace for a major one-off cash payout linked to the company’s revamped portfolio. Reckitt is seeking shareholder approval for a special dividend of 235 pence per share—roughly £1.6 billion total—along with a 24-for-25 share consolidation. The dividend is slated for Feb. 20.
On Monday, Reckitt disclosed it repurchased 48,415 shares on January 9, paying a volume-weighted average price of 6,196.07 pence. The shares were acquired within a price range of 6,134 to 6,260 pence. The company confirmed these shares will be held in treasury.
The batch cost about £3.0 million at the average price. The broker carried out the buyback on several venues, including the London Stock Exchange and Aquis.
Reckitt is paying a special dividend after wrapping up the sale of its Essential Home division to Advent International on Dec. 31. The company still holds a 30% stake in the buyer’s vehicle. CEO Kris Licht described the deal as “a major step forward in our strategy” as Reckitt hones in on a smaller portfolio of faster-growing brands. reckitt.com
UK equities saw gains as the FTSE edged up in early trade. This lifted defensive consumer stocks, which held steady despite weakening risk appetite.
A share consolidation, also known as a reverse split, reduces the number of shares outstanding to help the price adjust after cash leaves the company. While it doesn’t alter the underlying value by itself, it can smooth out the price movements following a dividend payout.
Still, the mechanics can catch traders off guard. Selling during the record-date rally or unexpected outcomes from the vote can push the stock lower, even as buybacks continue.
After the dividend play, all eyes turn to the earnings calendar. Reckitt will unveil its full-year 2025 results on March 5. Investors are expected to scrutinize growth trajectories, margins, and return rates closely on that day.
The next key date is the Jan. 27 general meeting in London, where shareholders are set to vote on the special dividend and the share consolidation.
