For dividend investors, the month kicks off with a bang next week as a slate of major companies line up to shower stockholders with cash payouts. But timing is critical - buying the wrong side of these stocks' ex-dividend dates could leave you empty-handed come distribution time.
That's why we're delivering this can't-miss Dividend Playbook spotlighting 8 high-profile picks investors need to pull the trigger on before their upcoming July 8th ex-dividend cutoffs. From hard-hitting utility plays to brand-name entertainment juggernauts, these stocks run the gamut in delivering steady income streams.
Let's dive into the crucial details you need to get positioned correctly:
Edison International (EIX) - The West Coast utility titan behind SoCal Edison is firing off a $0.78 per share quarterly dividend on July 31st. With an over 4% annual yield backing rock-solid operations, EIX belongs among any self-respecting income portfolio's core holdings.
Roper Technologies (ROP) - This diversified niche tech player may offer just a 0.53% yield, but its mission-critical software and data analytics solutions print cash relentlessly. Roper's $0.75 per share payout hits shareholder accounts on July 22nd.
Quest Diagnostics (DGX) - Healthcare is a perennial dividend stalwart, and the lab testing giant's $0.75 per share distribution arriving July 22nd generates a tidy 2.2% yield from current levels. An ideal defensive holding for uncertain markets.
Sylvamo Corp (SLVM) - The newly-minted paper products pure play is already delivering serious income firepower, dishing out $0.45 per share on July 29th at a lofty 2.65% yield. SLVM is a freshly-public cash cow for dividend mavens.
Walt Disney Co (DIS) - Even after re-establishing its dividend at just $0.45 per share, the Mouse House's July 25th payout commands attention. With Disney+ finally turning profitable and parks surging, that distribution has ample room to grow.
McCormick & Co (MKC) - This globally-renowned spice and flavorings titan is as rock-solid a consumer staples holding as they come. MKC has amassed a stellar 37-year dividend growth streak that shows no signs of stopping with its $0.42 per share July 22nd payout at a 2.4% yield.
OGE Energy (OGE) - For utility buffs, the regulated Oklahoma-based electric power provider is a must-own thanks to its beefy 4.7% annual dividend yield. Mark those calendars for OGE's $0.42 per share distribution landing on July 26th.
Main Street Capital (MAIN) - The high-yielding 8% payout from this business development company always packs a punch. With $0.25 per share income headed shareholders' way on September 13th, MAIN is a prime target for income investors to build a position in.
From dominant companies writing the big dividend checks to more speculative high-yielders, this cupboard is stocked with income opportunities. But move quickly - Monday July 8th is the ex-dividend cutoff date where procrastination gets severely punished.
Whether you're an income investor or simply looking to juice your portfolio's returns, studying this Dividend Playbook could have you ringing the cash register alongside Wall Street's heavy hitters in just a few short days. Careful planning means never missing out on a distribution again.