Altria and Philip Morris International were once the same company. They separated in 2008: Altria kept the US business, and Philip Morris International (PMI) took everything outside the United States. Both sell Marlboro, in different markets, and both pay high dividends.
Altria vs Philip Morris International: Two Tobacco Giants
Altria sells Marlboro in the US and Philip Morris International sells it everywhere else. Compare the businesses, smoke-free bets and dividend risks.
At a glance
Altria Group, Inc.
MO
|
Philip Morris International Inc.
PM
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Exchange | NYSE | NYSE |
| Sector | Consumer Staples | Consumer Staples |
| Industry | Tobacco | Tobacco |
| Founded | 1985 (as Philip Morris Companies) | 2008 (spun off from Altria) |
| Headquarters | Richmond, Virginia, USA | Stamford, Connecticut, USA (operations in Lausanne, Switzerland) |
| Regular dividend | Yes | Yes |
| Dividend lists | — | — |
| Full profile | Read the profile → | Read the profile → |
Price chart
Live data by TradingViewKey differences
Where they sell
Altria sells in the United States. PMI sells in more than 180 countries outside it.
Smoke-free strategy
PMI's growth bet is heated tobacco (IQOS) and nicotine pouches (ZYN). Altria is smaller in smoke-free and relies mainly on US cigarettes, smokeless products and a few alternatives.
Currency exposure
PMI has a lot of currency exposure because it sells in many countries. Altria's sales are mostly in dollars.
History
PMI has existed as a separate listed company since 2008. Altria dates back to Philip Morris Companies in 1985.
Shared risks
Falling smoking rates, regulation, litigation and tax changes.
What to check before choosing
- How comfortable are you with the long-term risks of the tobacco industry?
- How do the current payout ratios and yields compare?
- Do you prefer a US-only business, or global exposure with currency swings?
This is general education, not a recommendation. Fees, yields and prices change, so check current figures with the issuer or your broker.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Altria and Philip Morris International?
They were one company until 2008. Altria sells tobacco in the US, and PMI sells it in the rest of the world.
Which pays a higher dividend?
Both usually have high yields. Compare the current figures, because yields change with the share price.
Are tobacco dividends safe?
They are supported by strong cash flow, but declining volumes, regulation and litigation make the long-term picture uncertain.
Investment Disclaimer
All information and tools on this website are provided for informational purposes only. The calculations, examples, and projections are simplified estimates and may not reflect real-world investment results.
Nothing on this website should be interpreted as financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and any outcomes resulting from them.
Past performance and projected returns do not guarantee future results. Always conduct your own research and consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.