Hoping to bag the next Wesfarmers dividend? Here's what you need to do

The Wesfarmers ex-dividend date is fast approaching.

| More on:

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Key points
  • Wesfarmers shares remain relatively unchanged since the company's release of its full-year results 
  • The Wesfarmers share price is set to trade ex-dividend on Wednesday 
  • Eligible shareholders will receive a payment of $1 per share on 6 October 

Shares in Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) have remained steady since the company reported its full-year results on 26 August.

Despite delivering a mixed financial scorecard, the Wesfarmers share price shrugged off the negative sentiment on the ASX that day.

This is because the conglomerate's earnings beat the consensus estimate among a number of brokers.

At the time of writing, the conglomerate's shares are 0.72% higher to $47.74 apiece for the day.

An excited male investor looks at some Australian bank notes held in his hand with an astounded look on his face

Image source: Getty Images

Wesfarmers shares gear up to trade ex-dividend

As the market reels from its heavy losses, investors are sending the Wesfarmers share price into positive territory.

It appears that investors are eager to quickly secure the Wesfarmers dividend as the ex-dividend date fast approaches.

In case you weren't aware, you'll have till the end of the day to buy the company's shares and lock in the dividend.

Although, you can expect the share price to fall tomorrow as when a company reaches its ex-dividend day, investors tend to offload their holdings for a quick profit.

When is payday for Wesfarmers shareholders?

For those who lock in the upcoming Wesfarmers dividend, you'll receive a payment of $1 per share on 6 October.

The dividend is fully franked and is 11.1% higher than the previous corresponding period (90 cents per share).

This brings the total FY 2022 dividend to $1.80 per share, representing a slight increase on last year's total $1.78 per share dividend.

Wesfarmers acknowledged that a key component of total shareholder return is the dividends paid to shareholders. After all, investors are highly drawn to quality blue-chip shares that pay dividends.

Wesfarmers' dividend distributions are based on franking credit availability, current earnings, cash flows, future cash flow requirements and targeted credit metrics.

In that respect, management said that the final dividend reflects a strong second-half net profit after tax result.

It is also the highest final dividend to be paid since September 2018.

Furthermore, shareholders can elect for the dividend reinvestment plan (DRP) which will add a portion of shares to their portfolio instead.

There is no DRP discount rate and the last election date for shareholders to opt in is on 2 September.

Wesfarmers share price snapshot

In 2022, the Wesfarmers share price has fallen 20% on the back of tough macroenvironmental conditions in recent months.

The company's shares reached a year-to-date low of $40.03 on 17 June, before treading higher in the following weeks.

Wesfarmers commands a market capitalisation of roughly $53.74 billion and has a dividend yield of 3.55%.

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Wesfarmers Limited. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Dividend Investing

Man holding fifty Australian Dollar banknotes in his hands, symbolising dividends.
Dividend Investing

3 star ASX dividend income stocks for the rest of 2026

I rate these businesses as strong income buys.

Read more »

Children skipping and jumping up a hill.
Dividend Investing

Want passive income? These ASX dividend shares offer 5%+ yields

These companies grow their payouts over time.

Read more »

A golden egg with dividend cash flying out of it
Dividend Investing

These ASX dividend shares keep giving investors a pay rise

I think these businesses are excellent options for regular payout growth.

Read more »

A graphic of a pink rocket taking off above an increasing chart.
Dividend Investing

$1,000 buys 23 shares in an incredibly reliable ASX 200 dividend stock

This business offers incredible reliability with dividends.

Read more »

A happy elderly man wearing a red cape smiles as he jumps up like a hero from a massage table.
Dividend Investing

3 ASX dividend stocks I'd buy if I were a retiree

Reliable dividends often come from predictable demand. These three stocks highlight where that stability can be found.

Read more »

Beautiful young couple enjoying in shopping, symbolising passive income.
Dividend Investing

3 ASX dividend shares to build a passive income

Looking for passive income? These shares have been named as buys by analysts.

Read more »

One hand giving $100 notes to another hand, symbolising ex-dividend date.
Dividend Investing

An ASX dividend stalwart every Australian should consider buying

This is the right time to invest in this impressive stock.

Read more »

ATM with Australian hundred dollar notes hanging out.
Dividend Investing

How to dollar-cost average your way to passive income with ETFs

You don't need a lump sum to build a dividend income stream, just a plan and the discipline to stick…

Read more »