[wskinner]

If you as a shareholder receive a dividend of X% of the share price, you owe tax on it. But if the company buys back stock and as a result the share price increases by X%, you do not owe tax on that unrealized gain until you choose to sell your stock. That’s good for investors.

[bobbylarrybobby]

Also, dividends are taxed as ordinary income whereas stock buybacks lead to capital gains, which almost always have a lower tax rate.

[e_y_]

Qualified dividends are taxed at the same rate as long term capital gains, although the rules for what qualifies can be tricky (special one-time dividends in particular).

[HDThoreaun]

Only if youve held the stock for less than 6 months. Most dividends are taxed at capital gains rate.

[creativeSlumber]

but there is no guarantee of a stock buyback increasing the stock price by x%, correct?