RE: RE: RE: RE: BCE StatementWell, nobody knows at this point - but my guess is that you're wrong.
I think we'll see the dividend reinstated and slightly increased. That's all.
No share buyback. No special dividend. There is no long-term, sound reason to do either.
People are expecting miracles. They will be disappointed.
I see no reason for BCE to distribute a big part of it's cash as some kind of symbolic gesture to appease unhappy shareholders. It would be fiscally irresponsible of them. You do distributions when earnings are extraordinary or special positive events happen (like a spinoff). How does a FAILED deal qualify??? It does not. Also, the current shareholders are not necessarily the ones that missed the two dividends, so it especially makes no sense to give it to NEW shareholders. Dividends are not owed nor are they guranteed. If cash is to be deployed, then it should be used prudently - to strengthen the company and/or for future growth.
We are heading into a nasty recession/depression. This is not the time to deplete cash positions! Ho wmany companies have reduced or eliminated their dividends altogether? BCE does not have to do that, due to it's terrific cashflow. But the company needs to be cautious. Continue cutting out the waste. Get as lean as possible. And stay financially strong until this storm passes.
Shareholders should stop looking at this as if they are owed something. They should look past the last 18 months and beyond the next 6! BCE needs to do what is best for her future - not a quickie to satisfy disgruntled shareholders.