A dividend is a payment made by a company to its shareholders as a way to distribute a portion of its profits. It is typically paid in cash but can also be in the form of additional shares of stock. Dividends are usually paid regularly, such as quarterly or annually, depending on the company’s dividend policy.

To ensure you receive a dividend, you should aim to buy stocks before the ex-dividend date. The ex-dividend date is the cutoff date set by the company, usually a few days before the dividend payment date. If you purchase stocks before the ex-dividend date, you become eligible to receive the upcoming dividend. However, if you buy stocks on or after the ex-dividend date, you will not receive the current dividend but may be eligible for future dividend payments.

It’s important to note that the stock price may adjust on the ex-dividend date to reflect the dividend payment. This means the stock price may decrease by roughly the amount of the dividend, as the company is distributing its profits to shareholders. Therefore, if your primary goal is to receive the dividend, it’s advisable to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date, but be aware of the potential stock price adjustment.

Remember, investing in stocks involves risks, and it’s always wise to do thorough research, analyze the company’s financial health, and consider consulting with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.