This paper examines dividend policy of Thai listed companies from 2002 to 2008 in order to test the free cash flow and
life-cycle hypotheses. Based on the comparisons of firm characteristics between higher payout firms and lower payout
firms, the correlation analysis, and the regression analysis, the evidence from this research provides much support for the
free cash flow and life-cycle hypotheses. Specifically, the free cash flow and earned equity (RE/TE), the main variables
in this paper, appear to have positive influences on dividend payouts of Thai firms. These findings consistent with those
of DeAngelo et al. (2006) and Denis and Osobov (2008) who document the positive impact of retained earnings to
equity, a proxy for firm’s life cycle, on dividend policy.
Throughout this paper, it is interesting to observe a significantly positive relationship between financial leverage and
dividend payouts, which casts doubt whether Thai firms finance their dividend payments with debt. This issue, however,
beyond the scope of this study but provides an exciting area for future research regarding the link between capital
structure and dividend policy in Thailand