Stellantis shareholders approved a $2.3 billion dividend Tuesday, even as the company announced a pause on stock buybacks due to continued financial and geopolitical headwinds.
The automaker will issue a dividend of 0.68 euros (77 cents) per share on May 5, totaling approximately 2 billion euros. During the company’s annual general meeting in Amsterdam, leadership acknowledged that 2024 had been a disappointing year, largely due to internal missteps and challenges in key markets.
Stellantis reported a net profit of $5.8 billion (5.5 billion euros) in 2024, marking a 70% decline from the previous year. Performance in North America and Europe—its two largest markets—was cited as a primary driver of the downturn.
In 2025, the automaker is navigating new U.S. tariffs that are compounding costs on imported vehicles, aluminum, steel, and auto parts. While the company has made progress on inventory issues, improved pricing, and is preparing for new vehicle launches, tariff pressure remains a major concern.
Stellantis leadership expresses cautious optimism after President Donald Trump suggested that he might consider temporary exemptions for automakers. However, they acknowledge that European emissions regulations and other trade barriers are increasing pressure on manufacturers operating in both the U.S. and Europe.
The growing dominance of the Chinese auto market is also a concern. China is expected to surpass the combined size of the U.S. and European markets for the first time in 2025, placing additional competitive pressure on Western automakers.
Additionally, the company’s recent struggles have set the stage for a leadership transition. Stellantis plans to appoint a new CEO in the first half of the year, following Carlos Tavares’s departure in late 2024. Reports indicate that two internal candidates—North America head Antonio Filosa and procurement chief Maxime Picat—are under consideration, alongside three external candidates.