: One-time, non-recurring payments often triggered by exceptional company performance or asset sales.

: The most critical date; you must purchase the stock before this date to be eligible for the upcoming payment.

: The actual day the cash or shares are distributed to shareholders. 3. Essential Metrics for Evaluation How to Develop a Dividend Investing Strategy - VanEck

: Issuance of additional shares to existing shareholders, which increases their total holdings without immediate tax consequences.

: Rarer forms where shareholders receive physical assets, inventory, or promissory notes for future cash payments. 2. Key Dividend Dates