EQUITY (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2020

EQUITY [Abstract]

Shares Purchased and Retired

in thousands, except average cost	2020	2019	2018
Shares Purchased and Retired
Number	214	19	1,192
Total purchase price	$        26,132	$        2,602	$    133,983
Average cost per share	$        121.92	$      139.90	$      112.41

Cash Dividends Per Share of Common Stock

in thousands, except per share data	2020	2019	2018
Dividends
Cash dividends	$      180,216	$     163,973	$     148,109
Cash dividends per share	$            1.36	$           1.24	$           1.12