American Eagle Outfitters Inc. reported Wednesday that profit for the quarter ended Feb. 2 soared to $94.8 million from $51.3 million in the year-ago period, aided by few markdowns.

Family Dollar increased its annual dividend by 24%. The annual payout now totals $1.04 following a decision by the retailer’s board to elevate the quarterly dividend to 26 cents a share from 21 cents a share.

Dick’s Sporting goods will pay $2 special dividend before year end in a move to help investors avoid what are presumed to be higher dividend tax rates in 2013 and beyond.

Costco Wholesale Corp. said it will pay a special dividend worth some $3.0 billion to investors, sending cash to its shareholders ahead of a likely increase in the dividend tax.

The Kroger Co. said Thursday it will increase its quarterly dividend by 30% to 15 cents per share, payable Dec. 1.

American Eagle Outfitters Inc. said that its board declared a special cash dividend of $1.50 and a regular quarterly dividend of 11 cents.

RadioShack Corp. reported its worst quarter since 1996, posting a loss of $21 million in the second quarter compared with a profit of $24.9 million in the same quarter last year.

Costco Wholesale Corp. said it has acquired partner Controladora Comercial Mexicana’s 50% share interest in Costco Mexico for approximately $760 million, funded by dividend proceeds, cash and investment balances.

Dollar Tree has approved a 2-for-1 stock split in the form of a 100% common stock dividend.

Target Corp. anticipates that its annual dividend may hit $3 per share or more by 2017, if its annual earnings are at $8 per share or more by that time.

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. said Thursday it is continuing its annual tradition of increasing shareholder payout by raising its dividend by 9%.

General Growth Properties said its board approved the spinoff of its Rouse Properties Inc. subsidiary, to consist of 30 regional shopping centers in 19 states.