Maiden dividend

The gaming machine supplier Ainsworth Game Technology has declared a maiden dividend of 3¢ a share. The board said that after considering growth opportunities and a commitment to return profits to shareholders, it would initially target a dividend payout ratio in the range of between 40 per cent and 60 per cent of net profit. Net profit for the six months to December 31 was $21.98 million, down 46 per cent, but including an income-tax expense of $8.2 million. Profit before tax was up 60 per cent at $30.14 million. Ainsworth expects market share and revenue in North America to grow.