This week is a big one for income investors, with a number of popular ASX 200 dividend shares scheduled to trade ex-dividend.
When a share goes ex-dividend, it means that the rights to an upcoming dividend payment have been settled. Anyone that buys a share from that day onwards will not receive the dividend, which will stay with the seller instead.
Three ASX 200 shares that are going ex-dividend this week include:
New Hope Corporation Limited (ASX: NHC)
This coal miner's shares are trading ex-dividend this morning for its massive interim and special dividends.
Last month, the company released its half-year results and declared a fully franked interim dividend of 30 cents per share (up 76% year over year) and a 10 cents per share special dividend. Underpinning this was a big rise in coal prices, which gave its profits a material boost over the prior corresponding period.
Eligible shareholders can look forward to receiving these dividends on 3 May.
OZ Minerals Limited (ASX: OZL)
Last week, shareholders of this copper miner gave the thumbs up to the BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) takeover offer. As part of the agreement, the company will be allowed to pay a special $1.75 per share fully franked dividend to shareholders before being taken over.
OZ Minerals shares will trade ex-dividend for this special dividend on Thursday 20 April. After which, eligible shareholders can look forward to receiving this payout at the start of next month. The miner is planning to make its payment on 2 May if all goes to plan.
Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd (ASX: SOL)
Last month, this conglomerate released its half-year results and reported a 38% increase in profit to $475.7 million. This allowed the company's board to increase its interim dividend by 24.1% to 36 cents per share.
If you want to receive this dividend, you will need to act fast and own Soul Patts shares before they trade ex-dividend on Wednesday 19 April.
Like the others, if you're eligible for it, you will then be paid this dividend next month. Soul Patts plan to pay its dividend on 12 May.
