How do you figure dividends from consolidated balance sheet?

Answer 1

Answer:Generally, you can't, because the balance sheet is drawn at a point in time, whereas dividends that were paid over the period (quarter, year) are subtracted from retained earnings (part of equity).

However, it could be the case that the dividend has been declared, but not yet been paid. In that situation the balance sheet may include a liability 'dividends payable'. However, when you see such a liability, you can't tell whether or not any dividends are already paid before the end of period.

The statement that shows dividends is the statement of retained earnings (sometimes this statement comes with a different name, for example 'movements in equity'). The statement of retained earnings will show the beginning of year retained earnings, plus net income minus dividends, which equals end of year retained earnings.