scorecardresearch5 rules of dividend-investing you can't afford to miss

5 rules of dividend-investing you can't afford to miss

Updated: 28 Feb 2023, 01:42 PM IST
TL;DR.

  • Dividend investing could be a possible source of passive income. Let's understand how to invest in dividend-yield companies in an efficient way.

Dividend investing can also provide stability to a portfolio, as companies that pay regular dividends are typically more established and financially stable.

Dividend investing can also provide stability to a portfolio, as companies that pay regular dividends are typically more established and financially stable.

Dividend investing is a strategy where you, as an investor, focus on buying stocks that pay regular dividends, where dividends mean a portion of the company's profits that are distributed to shareholders. These dividends can provide a steady stream of income for the investor, making it an attractive option for those looking for a reliable source of passive income.

Dividend investing can also provide stability to a portfolio, as companies that pay regular dividends are typically more established and financially stable. This is because companies that consistently generate profits are more likely to be able to pay out dividends to their shareholders.

Here are 5 basic rules you must follow when planning your investments:

Look for stable and established companies

When investing in dividend-paying stocks, choosing companies with a proven track record of stability and success is important. Look for companies that have a consistent history of paying dividends over time.

Generally, PSU companies tend to give regular dividends along with interim dividends as a reward for staying invested in their companies. Investing in these types of companies helps you generate passive income.

Focus on high-quality companies

Investing in companies with a strong balance sheet, a sustainable business model, and good growth prospects is important. These companies are more likely to continue paying dividends and increase their dividend payments over time.

It is reasonable that if a company is financially healthy, it tends to generate more profits. It ultimately leads to more dividend distribution from the portion of their net profits and reinvesting it in the company's expansion.

Consider the payout ratio

The payout ratio is the percentage of a company's earnings that is paid out as dividends. A high payout ratio can be a sign that the company is paying out more than it can afford, while a low payout ratio may indicate that the company is retaining more earnings for future growth. A good payout ratio is generally between 30% and 60% of earnings.

Always remember that a large payout ratio is also a red flag, as it means the company distributes all the money in dividends instead of reinvesting for expansion. The company is more likely to depend on borrowing when it comes to expansion.

Look for dividend growth

Companies that consistently increase their dividend payments over time are often a good choice for dividend investors. This is a sign that the company is generating strong cash flow and has confidence in its future prospects.

A constant increase in the percentage of dividend growth will also indicate a proportionate increase in capital appreciation too, as when the company's net profit is growing, the company's overall growth strengthens as well.

Diversify your portfolio

Diversification is key to any successful investment strategy, and dividend investing is no exception. By investing in a variety of companies across different sectors, you can spread your risk and increase the stability of your portfolio.

Having a mixture of aggressively growing companies in a portfolio, which helps you in capital appreciation, and dividend-yielding companies, helps you in giving regular sources of income.

Conclusion

Overall, dividend investing can be a valuable strategy for investors looking for income, stability, and potential growth in their investment portfolios. However, it is important to do proper research and analysis before investing in any individual stock, as not all dividend-paying companies may be suitable investments.

 

Anushka Trivedi is a freelance financial content writer. She can be reached at anushkatrivedi.com

 

Article
Understanding dividend reinvestment option in MFs
First Published: 28 Feb 2023, 01:42 PM IST