Monetary payment a stock shareholder receives from the company. The dividend, which is allocated from the company`s earnings, is paid on a pro-rated basis in a fixed amount for each share of stock held. Dividends are usually paid quarterly. Dividends are not guaranteed, but many companies with consistent earnings pay them on a regular basis.
Distribution of earnings to shareholders that may be in the form of cash, stock, or property. Mutual fund dividends are paid out of income, usually on a quarterly basis, from interest generated by a fund's investments. Also known as a dividend distribution.
The distribution of earnings to stockholders and shareholders. The per-share amount is decided by the board of directors and on individual stocks is usually paid quarterly. Mutual fund dividends are paid out of net income, usually monthly (for fixed income funds) or annually (for equity funds).
Income derived from a stock, as declared periodically by the company’s board of directors. (See also: interest income) Return to Previous
A portion of a company's profit paid to its bondholders and common and preferred shareholders, often at regular intervals (e.g. quarterly or annually).
The share of a company's profits distributed to a shareholder. Generally, the policy and rate for common share dividends are set by the board of directors. Preferred share dividend rates usually are established in the terms of the issue and can only be suspended under unusual circumstances.