Here are my four top monthly-paying ASX shares. One of them yields as high as 9.7%.

Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8)

Plato is a listed investment company (LIC) that targets income-focused investors, including retirees and SMSF investors. It actively manages a portfolio of mature ASX-listed equities, cash, and listed futures but focuses its attention on major ASX dividend shares with strong dividend payouts.

Plato is long-standing too. It was the first Australian LIC to target monthly dividends to its shareholders, which it has paid consistently since 2017. Since April 2022, it has paid consistent fully-franked dividends of 0.55 cents per share every month. That comes to an annual running total of 6.6 cents per share in fully-franked passive income, which translates to a dividend yield of around 4.8% at the time of writing.

Betashares Dividend Harvester Active ETF (ASX: HVST)

Betashares HVST ETF invests in 40 to 60 dividend-paying companies selected from the top 100 largest shares listed on the ASX. It selects these companies based on their dividend forecasts, franking credits, and expected future gross dividend payments.

As of the 29th of May, the HVST ETF pays a 12-month gross distribution (dividend) yield of 7.4%, and a net yield of 5.8%. Its franking level is 63.2%, and it has an annual management fee of 0.72%. HVST ETF has paid around $0.06 per share since January 2024, and is due to pay its shareholders $0.06 cents per share to investors next week. 

BetaShares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (ASX: YMAX)

The Betashares YMAX ETF is an ASX-listed exchange-traded fund (ETF) that gives its shareholders exposure to the 20 largest blue-chip shares listed on the ASX. The fund is heavily weighted into the financial sector, which accounts for 57% of its allocation at the time of writing. The materials sector is second, accounting for 25% of its allocation.

The fund moved to monthly payouts earlier this year after previously paying shareholders a quarterly dividend. As of the 29th of May, YMAX ETF has a 12-month gross distribution yield of 9.7%, and a net yield of 8.2%. The total franking level of 41.3%.

The fund is due to pay its shareholders a $0.04 per share dividend next week. It also paid $0.04 per share in May and April.

Metrics Master Income Trust (ASX: MXT)

The Metrics Master Income Trust is a listed investment trust (LIT), which holds a portfolio of corporate loans and private credit investments rather than a portfolio of other ASX dividend shares, an area currently dominated by regulated banks. Metrics Master Income Trust targets a return of the Reserve Bank cash rate plus 3.25% p.a. (net of fees) through every stage of the economic cycle.

Its latest payout was 1.37 cents per share unfranked in April, payable next week. That means that over the past 12 months, Metrics Master Income Trust has paid out 12 dividends totalling around 16 cents per share. At the time of writing, this gives the LIT a dividend yield of around 8.3%.

The post 4 ASX shares that pay a monthly dividend to shareholders appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

There are still decent yields to be found, of course. But many of these hail from the more volatile end of the market. Miners and energy stocks can pay out big for investors, but they are also highly cyclical and therefore rather unreliable dividend shares.

However, if you are looking for your next ASX income stock, there's a name that I think merits a look from any dividend-hungry investor today. It is Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8).

Plato is a listed investment company (LIC), meaning it owns and manages a portfolio of underlying investments on behalf of its shareholders. This portfolio consists of many ASX income stocks. At the latest count, it included all of the shares mentioned above, as well as BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN), National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL), and many more.

An ASX income stock with a lot to show

Plato collects the income these stocks pay out and passes it on to its shareholders through dividend payments. This Plato does monthly, which many income investors will no doubt find incredibly useful.

The ASX income stock has doled out 12 dividends over the past year, each worth 0.55 cents per share. At the current Plato share price of $1.39 (at the time of writing), this ASX income stock has a trailing dividend yield of 4.75%.

Many income-focused investments have a tendency to sacrifice overall returns for a higher upfront yield. But this is not a trap Plato falls into, at least yet. As of 30 April, Plato has delivered an overall return (share price growth plus dividends) worth 9.9% per annum since its inception in 2017. That's slightly above the 9.8% that the broader market has delivered over the same period.

Fortunately, Plato's dividends tend to come with full-franking credits attached too. This combination of monthly dividends, a relatively large starting yield, and those full-franking credits makes Plato a formidable ASX income stock. As such, I think it's well worthy of consideration for anyone searching for yield today.

The post This ASX income stock has a 4.75% yield and pays out monthly appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here are my three top picks, and one of them yields as high as 9.2%.

BetaShares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (ASX: YMAX)

The Betashares YMAX is an ASX-listed exchange-traded fund (ETF) that provides exposure to the 20 largest blue-chip ASX-listed shares.

At the time of writing, the fund is heavily weighted into the financial sector, which accounts for 47% of its allocation. The materials sector is second, accounting for 21.4% of its allocation.

The fund has been paying quarterly dividends to its shareholders since April 2013. But in January, its payment frequency was amended to monthly.

As at 30th April 2026, the YMAX ETF has a 12-month gross distribution yield of 9%, and a 12-month distribution yield of 7.6%. The total 12-month franking level is 41.2%.

The fund most recently paid a $0.047623 per unit dividend to shareholders on Monday this week.

Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8)

Plato is a listed investment company (LIC) that targets income-focused investors, including retirees, SMSF investors, and other investors seeking a dependable income stream.

The company actively manages a portfolio of mature ASX-listed equities, cash, and listed futures. It mostly focuses on ASX dividend shares with strong dividend payouts, such as major banks, mining giants, and energy firms. 

Metrics Income Opportunities Trust (ASX: MOT)

The Metrics Master Income Trust is an LIT with a diversified portfolio of private credit and related opportunities. 

This means the Trust can give investors direct exposure to private credit investments, which is becoming an increasingly popular asset class for income-focused investors.

It said its investment objective is to provide monthly cash income, preserve investor capital, and manage investment risks. It also seeks to provide upside potential through investments in private credit and other assets. These "other assets" include warrants, options, preference shares, and equity.

The Trust targets a cash yield of 7% per year, with a total target return of 8% to 10% per year. The yield is net of fees and expenses. 

Dividend distributions are paid monthly. The Trust also has a distribution reinvestment plan (DRP), which allows its unitholders to reinvest monthly income distributions.

The ASX dividend share's latest payout was 1.22 cents per unit in late April. The Fund also paid out 1.09 cents per unit in March, 0.92 cents in February, and 1.22 cents in January. 

Over the past 12 months, Metrics Income Opportunities Trust has paid out 12 dividends totalling 15.92 cents per share (unfranked). This means the LIT has a dividend yield of around 9.2% at the time of writing.

The post 3 ASX dividend shares yielding up to 9%, and with monthly payouts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This is great news for investors looking for a stable fund which pays a reliable income, and offers long-term growth potential.

I've previously written about monthly-paying ASX dividend stocks such as BetaShares Dividend Harvester Active ETF (ASX: HVST), Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8), and Metrics Master Income Trust (ASX: MXT). They all offer a reliable monthly income at an attractive rate.

But I think the BetaShares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (ASX: YMAX) trumps them all.

Here's why.

How does YMAX work?

The Betashares YMAX is an ASX-listed exchange-traded fund (ETF) which targets the 20 largest Australian companies listed on the ASX.

The fund uses what's called a 'covered call' strategy. This is expected to generate an income significantly exceeding the dividend yields of the underlying share portfolio over the medium term. 

It generally offers lower volatility than a direct investment in the underlying shares. It does not aim to track an index.

What does its portfolio look like?

The ASX dividend stock invests in a portfolio that provides exposure to the largest 20 blue-chip Australian shares listed on the ASX, combined with call options written on the securities in the share portfolio.

The portfolio is passively managed. This means the weighting of each security generally mirrors the weighting of the security within the Solactive Australia 20 Index.

The share portfolio also aims to generate dividends, franking credits, and capital growth. 

At the time of writing, the fund is heavily weighted into the financial sector (47%) and the materials sector (21.4%). 

And as of the 30th of April, the top two holdings in its portfolio are Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) at 17.5% of the portfolio, and BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) which accounts for 16%. Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) at 8%, and National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), which around for 7.4% of the portfolio, complete the top four.

ANZ Banking Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ), Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG), Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS), CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) and Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) make up the remainder of the top 10 exposures in the fund.

What ASX dividends does the stock pay its shareholders?

YMAX has paid quarterly dividends to its shareholders since April 2013. But in January this year, its payment frequency was amended to monthly.

As at 30th April 2026, the YMAX ETF has a 12-month gross distribution yield of 9%. It's 12-month distribution yield is 7.6%. The total 12-month franking level is 41.2%.

The fund most recently paid a $0.047623 per unit dividend to shareholders on Monday this week. This translates to an annual distribution return of 8.26%.

The post Here's a 9% ASX dividend stock to consider for a monthly passive income appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Yet that's exactly what this week has brought income investors. Yesterday saw the debut of the Plato Global Shares Income Fund – Active ETF (ASX: PGI2).

If that name seems familiar to you, it might be thanks to Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8). This listed investment company (LIC), which has been around for a few years, is a popular income investment on the ASX. That's thanks, in no small part, to its habit of paying out monthly dividends.

Unlike the Income Maximiser, PGI2 is an ASX ETF. Let's dive into how it works.

How does this new ASX dividend ETF work?

Put simply, the Plato Global Shares Income Fund is an active ETF that aims to deliver more income than its benchmark index, the MSCI World ex Australia, Net Returns Unhedged Index.

This ETF has only been on the ASX for a day and a half. However, Plato also offers an unlisted iteration as a managed fund, which has been available for investment since 1 March 2016.

As of 30 April, this fund has returned an average of 10% per annum since that time. 5.7% of that 10% per annum came from dividend income distributions. That's also the trailing 12-month yield for the fund, as of 30 April anyway. Its more recent performance has clocked in at an average of 19.2% per annum over the past three years, and 13.6% per annum over the past five.

Like its Plato Income Maximiser cousin, the Plato Global Shares Income Fund will also pay out monthly dividend distributions.

Unfortunately, Plato hasn't yet listed the Global Shares Income Fund's exact holdings. However, from the data that is available, it can be assumed that US tech stocks, possibly including Apple, Nvidia, Alphabet, and Broadcom, are top holdings. That's in addition to more traditional payers, including financial stocks, consumer staples companies, and healthcare shares. This dividend ETF also includes a diversified range of European and Asian stocks, although these are less prominent in its largest holdings.

Yesterday, PGI2 units floated at about $10.75 each. This ASX dividend ETF is currently hovering around that level, trading at $10.76 at the time of writing. Let's see how it fares from here.

The post A new monthly ASX dividend ETF just hit the ASX appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

One such strategy to consider is dividend investing. 

According to S&P Global, Australia has historically been one of the highest-yielding equity markets in the world. 

However, this has shifted in the last few years. 

Data shows the trailing 12-month dividend yield of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) sits at approximately 3.5%.

This still outpaced other markets in Europe, Canada and the US. 

However it's significantly lower than its long-term average of approximately 4.5%.

Why turn to dividend shares now?

Even though dividends are shrinking, dividend shares can be particularly attractive during periods of market volatility because they provide investors with a steady stream of income even when share prices fluctuate. 

Companies that consistently pay dividends are often well-established, financially stable businesses with reliable cash flow, which can make them more resilient during economic uncertainty. 

Regular dividend income can help offset capital losses during market downturns and provide investors with greater confidence to hold their investments long term. 

In addition, reinvesting dividends during weaker markets allows investors to purchase more shares at lower prices, potentially enhancing long-term returns once market conditions improve.

With that in mind, here are several ASX dividend shares with comparably high yields. 

IVE Group Ltd (ASX: IGL)

IVE Group provides communication solutions. Its services includes creative services, personalised communications, print production, retail display, promotional merchandising, third party sourcing, logistics and fulfilment and managed solutions.

Recently, Bell Potter released updated guidance. 

The broker is expecting the company to pay fully franked dividends of 18 cents per share in FY 2026 followed by 20 cents per share in FY 2027. 

Based on its current share price, this would equate to yields of 6.8% and 7.6%, respectively, well above the ASX benchmark of 3.5%.

Australian Foundation Investment Company (ASX: AFI)

Another ASX dividend stock offering market beating yields is Australian Foundation Investment Company. 

The self-managed investment company is currently offering a grossed-up dividend yield of approximately 5.8%. 

Furthermore, it has a strong track record of bumping up its yield over the last decade. 

Plato Income Maximiser (ASX: PL8)

Plato Income Maximiser provides investors with the opportunity to benefit from an indirect investment in actively managed well-diversified Australian listed equities portfolio that aims to generate both income and a total return in excess of the benchmark. 

It also aims to make regular monthly dividends once it has sufficient profit reserves.

In some ways, this is similar to an ASX ETF. 

It holds an underlying portfolio of investments that it manages on behalf of its shareholders. 

This dividend stock currently offers a yield of roughly 4.85%.

Betashares Australian Dividend Harvester Fund (ASX: HVST)

For investors looking to diversify beyond individual dividend shares, this ASX ETF could be another option. 

The fund's share portfolio is generally selected from the largest 100 Australian shares on the ASX, and screened for high dividend and franking outcomes based upon expected future gross dividend payments.

It currently offers a 12 month gross distribution yield of 7.4%. 

The post Is now the time to turn to high yield dividend shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

You've got your classic dividend stocks that most investors will consider, such as Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC), Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) and BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP). But I think many investors looking to build the ultimate retirement portfolio would be more partial to monthly dividend payers.

Retirees obviously need a good source of passive income, delivered regularly and reliably. That's why I think these two monthly ASX dividend payers are well worth a look for those trying to build a solid retirement portfolio.

Ultimate retirement portfolio: 2 ASX dividend stocks that pay income monthly

First off, let's start with an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The BetaShares S&P Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: HYLD) is an ETF that is specifically designed to provide high levels of franked dividend income to ASX investors. It does this by holding an underlying portfolio filled with top ASX dividend shares. At the most recent numbers, these included Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO), ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ), Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) and Transurban Group (ASX: TCL), amongst many others.

HYLD uses this portfolio to fund monthly dividends for its investors. This does tend to fluctuate. However, as of 31 March, the provider told investors that HYLD was trading on a trailing dividend yield of about 4.2%. Like any income stock, there is no guarantee that this will continue or increase going forward, of course. But given the quality of HYLD's underlying portfolio, I think this is a great stock to consider for the ultimate retirement portfolio.

Next up, let's talk about Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8). Plato is a listed investment company (LIC), meaning that, similar to an ETF, it holds an underlying portfolio of investments that it manages on behalf of its shareholders. Unlike an ETF, though, Plato has far more discretion over its dividend payments, which it tends to keep consistent over time.

Plato's portfolio holds many of the companies that can be found in HYLD, including BHP, ANZ and Telstra. It also currently features Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS).

Plato also pays out monthly dividends, which tend to come fully franked as a bonus. At recent pricing, this ASX dividend stock was trading on a healthy yield of about 4.85%.

The post Build the ultimate retirement portfolio with these 2 monthly ASX dividend stocks appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But for any investor who wants to be paid a reliable income much more frequently, there are a few ASX dividend shares that pay out to their shareholders on a monthly basis.

Here are three of my favourites.

Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8)

As a listed investment company (LIC), Plato targets investors who need a dependable income stream. These are mostly income-focused investors like retirees and SMSF investors.

The company actively manages a portfolio of mature ASX-listed equities, cash, and listed futures. It mostly focuses on ASX dividend shares with strong dividend payouts, such as major banks, mining giants, and energy firms. 

Plato has consistently paid fully-franked dividends of 0.55 cents per share every month since April 2022. That equates to an annual running total of 6.6 cents per share in fully-franked passive income. This equates to a dividend yield of 4.89% at the time of writing.

Betashares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (ASX: YMAX)

The Betashares YMAX is an ASX-listed exchange-traded fund (ETF) that targets the 20 largest Australian shares on the ASX. 

As at 31st of March, the YMAX ETF has a 12-month gross distribution yield of 10.3% and a 12-month distribution yield of 8.7%. The total 12-month franking level is 41.6%.

Its first-ever monthly dividend payment (previously the fund paid shareholders on a quarterly basis) was paid on the 17th of February, where it handed investors $0.035221 per unit. Its most recent payment was on Monday this week when it handed shareholders $0.043779 per unit.

Metrics Master Income Trust (ASX: MXT)

As a listed investment trust (LIT), the Metrics Master Income Trust holds a portfolio of corporate loans and private credit investments rather than a portfolio of other ASX dividend shares. 

This means it can give diversity-seeking investors direct exposure to the Australian corporate loan market. This is an area that is currently dominated by regulated banks. 

The Metrics Master Income Trust targets a return of the Reserve Bank cash rate plus 3.25% p.a. (net of fees) through every stage of the economic cycle. 

Its latest payout was 1.33 cents per share unfranked in March, payable next week. That means that over the past 12 months, Metrics Master Income Trust has paid out 12 dividends totalling 15.5 cents per share. At the time of writing, this gives the LIT a dividend yield of 7.93%.

The post These 3 ASX dividend shares yield 5% (or more) with monthly payouts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX shares typically pay out just two dividends a year. That's the case for most of the ASX's famous blue chips, whether it be Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW), or Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS).

Some ASX shares and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) fork out quarterly dividends, but these are uncommon. Rarer still are monthly dividend payers. Yet many investors appreciate the regularity of a monthly dividend.

Those investors currently have only a few options, including Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8) and the BetaShares S&P Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: HYLD). But they will soon have one more to consider.

This month, fund manager Solaris Investment Management revealed plans to float a listed investment company (LIC) that will follow the strategy of its existing Solaris Australian Equity Income Fund, an unlisted managed fund.

A new monthly ASX dividend stock

This fund invests in a basket of underlying ASX dividend shares. The fund's latest update tells us that these include Nine Entertainment Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: NEC), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) and Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM).

The Solaris Australian Equity Income Fund has been around since 2016. Since that time, it has delivered some robust results for investors. As of 28 February, investors have enjoyed an average return of 11.21% per annum. Of that 11.21%, 8.33% per annum came from dividend income distributions, including the value of franking credits. The other 2.88% came from capital growth.

As we speak, Solaris is undertaking a capital raising, at $2 a share, from investors to launch the listed version of the Solaris Australian Equity Income Fund. It will be known as Solaris Australian Equity Income Plus Ltd, and will trade with the ASX ticker code 'SET'. Solaris has nominated 17 April 2026 as the day that shares of this new ASX dividend stock are expected to commence trading.

Upon listing, Solaris has stated that the new company will have three objectives:

• generate income, inclusive of franking credits, that exceeds the income of the S&P/ASX 200 Franking Credit Adjusted Daily Total Return Index (Tax-Exempt) (Benchmark) annually
• generate total returns that are broadly in line with, or exceed, the Benchmark over the medium to long term
• deliver regular monthly income in the form of franked dividends

The fund manager expects Solaris Australian Equity Income Plus Ltd to pay the first of its monthly dividends in August this year. While there's no guarantee (as with any ASX dividend stock) that investors will receive an 8%-plus dividend yield going forward, the company's successful track record in delivering income will be reassuring for many.

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In order to receive a dividend, you must own the ASX share before its ex-dividend date.

As we've reported, some of the biggest dividend increases among ASX mining shares this season came from the gold miners.

Next week, two of them go ex-dividend.

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares will pay a fully-franked interim dividend of 3 cents per share on 15 April.

This exceeds the company's commitment to pay a minimum annual dividend of 2 cents per share for FY26.

Ramelius Resources reported a 13% increase in EBITDA to $347.7 million but a 6% fall in net profit after tax (NPAT) to $160 million.

The ASX gold share goes ex-dividend on Monday.

Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) shares will pay a maiden fully franked interim dividend of 5 cents per share.

The gold miner reported a 130% jump in underlying NPAT to $144.8 million for 1H FY26.

The ASX gold share also goes ex-dividend on Monday.

Here is a sample of the other ASX All Ords shares with ex-dividend dates next week.

ASX shares about to go ex-dividend

The post 26 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Saying that, there are a few stocks in my portfolio whose sole purpose is providing a stream of dividend income. This cash flow is useful for a few reasons. Firstly, it provides ballast. If there is a stock market correction or crash, the income that I receive from these shares helps buttress my portfolio. Secondly, this cash flow can be deployed to buy other stocks for the portfolio. This means I don't have to constantly rely on fresh capital injections, or sales of other positions, to fund new stock buys. 

One of the ASX dividend stocks I lean on to provide this cash flow is Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8).

Plato Income Maximiser is a listed investment company (LIC) that is specifically designed to deliver high levels of fully-franked dividends to its investors. Like most LICs, it owns an underlying portfolio of investments that it manages on behalf of its shareholders. 

This ASX dividend stock pours cash into my portfolio every month

This portfolio consists of blue-chip dividend stocks. As of the most recent data, these included Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT), National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS), and Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES).

These portfolio holdings pour dividend cash flow into Plato's coffers, which the LIC passes on to its shareholders in monthly dividend payments. These monthly payments represent highly beneficial cash flow for my portfolio thanks to this regularity. 

In recent years, Plato's monthly dividends have come in at 0.55 cents per share, always with full franking credits attached. The annual total of 6.6 cents per share gives this ASX dividend stock a trailing dividend yield of 4.55% at the $1.45 share price at the time of writing.

However, I was fortunate enough to pick up my Plato shares at a price much closer to $1 per share. This means that my cash flow yield-on-cost is sitting closer to 6%. The benefits of that yield to my portfolio and ability to keep adding shares to it are obvious.

Although the cash flow that this ASX dividend stock provides is enormously valuable to my investing, it's not the only reason I own Plato shares. High dividends are fantastic, but they are not worth buying a share for if they come at the expense of my capital, as payouts from some other popular ASX income stocks can.

Fortunately, in Plato's case, this LIC has actually outperformed the broader market since its inception in 2017. As of 31 January, Plato shares have delivered an overall return (growth plus dividends) of 10.3% per annum. That's 0.1% higher than its S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) benchmark.

The post This 4.5% ASX dividend stock is my go-to for cash flow planning appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The market is limping towards the finish line after an interest rate rise seriously dampened the 'vibe' this week.

ASX All Ords shares are down 2.1% since Monday.

Earnings season officially began this week, and as the half-year (and some full-year) reports come in, dividends are being announced.

Next week, a small group of ASX shares will go ex-dividend.

That means they will start trading without the latest dividend attached.

On the ex-dividend date, it is very common for share prices to fall.

This happens because stocks are simply less valuable without their next dividends attached.

So, keep an eye out for sudden dips in some of your portfolio stocks over the next month or so.

Going ex-dividend will likely be the reason.

Why watch the ex-dividend date?

If you've researched an ASX share and are ready to buy, you might want to do so before the ex-dividend date to pick up some income.

Alternatively, you might prefer to wait until the ex-dividend date, when the stock price is likely to fall.

Either option presents an opportunity.

Here are several ASX shares going ex-dividend next week.

The biggest name is ASX All Ords heavyweight ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD), which makes sleep apnoea devices.

We also recap how much these companies will pay investors and when they will deposit the money into their accounts.

5 ASX shares about to go ex-dividend

Which companies are reporting next week?

The calendar is pretty busy next week.

On Monday, we'll hear from Argo Investments Ltd (ASX: ARG) and CAR Group Ltd (ASX: CAR).

Then on Tuesday, Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV), Arena REIT (ASX: ARF), and Region Group (ASX: RGN) will be up.

On Wednesday, investors will hear from Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) and CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL).

There will be strong interest in these earnings reports, given that both stocks have endured significant sell-offs over the past year.

We'll also hear from ASX gold miner, Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN).

Investors will be curious to see how one of the market's largest miners has leveraged the soaring gold price to maximise profits.

We'll also hear from AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL), James Hardie Industries Plc (ASX: JHX), and investment house SGH Ltd (ASX: SGH).

On Thursday, 3 ASX financial shares will be in the spotlight.

AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP), ASX Ltd (ASX: ASX), and Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) will release their earnings.

We'll also hear from Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG), Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME), and Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW).

On Friday, Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) and Nick Scali Ltd (ASX: NCK) will be in the spotlight.

The post ASX shares going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The thing is, it's pretty easy to pin down good dividend-paying stocks which hand out cash to investors every six or 12 months. But finding one which pays a lot more regularly is more difficult.

The good news is that I've done the hard work for you. Here's a roundup of the top three ASX dividend stocks which pay a monthly dividend. Find out which one might work best for you.

BetaShares Dividend Harvester Active ETF (ASX: HVST) 

HVST is an ASX-listed exchange-traded fund (ETF) that gives its investors exposure to a large portfolio of up to 60 dividend-paying shares. These are drawn from the 100 largest ASX-listed companies and selected based on forecasts of high dividends and franking credits, and expected future gross dividend payments. Its portfolio is weighted towards the financial sector (24.2%), with materials accounting for another 10.7%. 

The fund is created in a way that it allows it to own a dividend share until it trades ex-dividend. At this point, the fund sells the shares and reinvests the proceeds into its next passive income-generating shares.

HVST pays investors a regular, franked dividend income that is around double the annual income yield of the broader ASX. As of the 31st December 2025, its 12-month gross distribution (dividend) yield is 7.4%, and the net yield is 5.8%. The franking level is 66%. The fund's annual management fee and costs are 0.72%.

The fund paid out $0.06 per share to investors in late January with another $0.06 per share due to be paid later this month. 

At the time of writing on Wednesday morning, HVST shares are $13.50 a piece. For the year to date, the shares have climbed 0.07%.

Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8)

Plato is a  listed investment company (LIC) which targets income-focused investors like retirees and SMSF investors who need a dependable income stream. 

The ASX dividend stock holds a portfolio of mature ASX-listed equities, cash, and listed futures. It mostly focuses on Australian companies with strong dividend payouts, such as major banks, mining giants, and energy firms. Its goal is to generate a high, franked income stream for investors and to consistently deliver above-market dividends and total returns, including franking credits. 

Plato has consistently paid fully franked dividends of 0.55 cents per share every month since April 2022. That equates to an annual running total of 6.6 cents per share in full franked passive income and gives a dividend yield of around 4%.

At the time of writing on Thursday morning, Plato shares are trading at $1.46 each, down around 1% for the year-to-date.

Metrics Master Income Trust (ASX: MXT)

The Metrics Master Income Trust is a listed investment trust (LIT) which has a portfolio of corporate loans and private credit investments rather than a portfolio of other ASX dividend shares. 

This means it can give its investors direct exposure to the Australian corporate loan market, which is currently dominated by regulated banks. The LIT is able to offer diversity-seeking investors an alternative investment that prioritises income stability and pays out monthly dividends. Metrics Master Income Trust targets a return of the Reserve Bank cash rate plus 3.25% p.a. (net of fees) through the economic cycle. 

Its latest payout was 1.36 cents per share unfranked in January, which is payable next week. That means that over the past 12 months, Metrics Master Income Trust has paid out 12 dividends totalling 15.8 cents per share. At the time of writing, this gives the LIT a dividend yield of 8.16%.

At the time of writing, Metrics Master Income Trust's shares are $1.98 a piece. This is down 0.25% for the year-to-date.

The post 3 ASX dividend stocks which pay their investors every single month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Well, Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8) is a stock that ticks all of those boxes. This listed investment company (LIC) is also inherently diversified, going above and beyond our initial checklist.

Let's dive into why this ASX dividend stock might be the perfect buy for income investors for 2026.

Like most LICs, Plato owns and manages a portfolio of underlying investments on behalf of its shareholders. In this case, the portfolio consists of other ASX shares. These shares are mostly blue-chip stocks with strong track records of paying substantial, sustainable dividends.

As of the latest data, these stocks included ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ), Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT), Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG), Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN), APA Group Ltd (ASX: APA) and Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA).

An ASX dividend stock paying a 4.5% monthly yield

Plato draws the dividend income it receives from this portfolio and channels it to its investors as monthly dividends, which also carry full franking credits.

Over the past 12 months, Plato has paid out 12 dividends. Each of those monthly dividends was worth 0.55 cents per share. Adding that up, we get an annual dividend of 6.6 cents per share. At the current Plato share price of $1.48 (at the time of writing), this ASX dividend stock has a trailing yield of 4.46%.

That's all well and good. But, as the more jaded investors out there might tell you, a high dividend yield doesn't mean an ASX dividend share will be a good investment. Fortunately, Plato has plenty of data to potentially convince investors otherwise in its case.

The company's latest performance figures confirm that, since this ASX dividend stock's inception in April 2017, its shares have returned (share price growth plus dividends and franking) an average of 10.3% per annum (as of 31 December). That's slightly above what the broader S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has delivered over the same period.

With a monthly dividend, a diversified portfolio of underlying investments, and a stellar track record of delivering returns for shareholders, I think Plato is the perfect ASX dividend stock for income investors to consider this January.

The post A perfect January ASX dividend stock with a 4.5% monthly payout appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

A diversified earnings base would also help, as would payouts on a more frequent interval than the six-month gap that is common on the ASX.

Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8) arguably ticks all of these boxes. Let's go through them.

Plato Income Maximiser is a listed investment company (LIC) that specialises in catering to the financial needs of retirees. Like most LICs, Plato runs its own underlying investment portfolio that it manages on behalf of its investors. In Plato's case, this portfolio consists of a wide variety of other ASX dividend-paying shares.

These shares are all selected on their ability to fund large but sustainable dividends. Some of these holdings currently include BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) and Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS). So that's diversity ticked off.

How does this ASX retirement stock measure up?

Plato uses the dividends it receives from this underlying portfolio to pay out its own dividends. This dividend comes every single month, meaning investors enjoy 12 paycheques a year from this retirement stock. Those dividends usually come with full franking credits attached too. Tick, tick.

Over the past 12 months, Plato has funded 12 dividends, each worth 0.55 cents per share. The annual total of 6.6 cents per share in fully franked dividends gives this retirement stock a trailing dividend yield of 4.44%. That's at yesterday's closing share price of $1.48. Another box ticked.  Bear in mind that this yield comes after Plato's 18.8% rise over the past 12 months, which has reduced the trailing dividend yield on his company substantially.

But what about Plato's track record?

Well, since launching in 2017, Plato has only cut its dividend once. That was over 2020, when the pandemic crushed the dividends many ASX shares were able to pay out. Plato did cut its monthly dividend from the then-0.5 cents per share per month down to 0.4 cents per share. But that lasted about a year, and investors have seen their payouts rise back and then exceed 2020's levels since.

In terms of overall returns, Plato investors have enjoyed an average total return (share price growth plus dividends) of 10.2% per annum since inception. That just beats out the broader market, which has averaged 10% per annum over the same period.

Our final box gets a tick, and as such, I would be happy to recommend Plato Income Maximiser to any income investor looking for the perfect retirement stock today.

The post The perfect retirement stock with a 4.4% payout each month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

Xero shares have faced a couple of headwinds in 2025, but I think the latest investor sell-off was unwarranted and overdone. The New Zealand-based cloud-based accounting software company looks like a great buying opportunity at the current trading price. Analysts also expect the shares to double in value next year. Seems like a no-brainer to me.

Weebit Nano Ltd (ASX: WBT) 

Weebit develops and licenses a new memory technology (Resistive Random-Access Memory, or ReRAM), which is designed to replace traditional Flash memory. The company has had an exceptionally strong start to the financial year, and given that there are very few businesses that can replicate its technology in-house, it looks like Weebit could quickly become a dominant market player. 

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

It's no secret that CSL shares have been through the wringer this year, suffering not one, but two brutal sell-offs. But I think we could be beginning to see green shoots of recovery. But CSL's core business remains robust, and demand for its products continues to grow globally. I think there is now an opportunity to buy the biotech company's shares at a rare discount.

Mesoblast Ltd (ASX: MSB)

If you're unsure about CSL shares, Mesoblast is another Australian clinical-stage biotech company that has exceptional potential for strong growth. The company is also well-funded and won't be subject to the US 100% tariff on pharmaceuticals. What's not to like?

Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT)

Flight Centre shares have stormed higher over the past 6 weeks following a promising trading update in November. The company said it is off to a positive start for FY26 and expects more growth over the next 12 months. I think that the current share price dip presents a great opportunity for investors to buy into the stock for cheap.

Judo Capital Holdings Ltd (ASX: JDO)

The outlook for ASX bank stocks doesn't look very promising right now, with the exception of Judo Bank, of course. Unlike its larger peers, the bank has had a strong start to FY26, and it looks set to continue. At its latest AGM, it said lending momentum was strong over the first quarter and that it's confident it can achieve FY26 guidance of $180-$190 million.

Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1)

The software-defined network (SDN) service provider is another favourite of mine. The ASX stock has suffered amid the tech-sector-wide investor sell-off over the past couple of months, but I'm very optimistic that there is a huge share price upside ahead. Megaport is rapidly expanding and reinvesting into growth plans.

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)

Woolworths' oligopoly, with supermarket rival Coles, means the two ASX stocks have significant power over the Australian grocery sector. It's this dominance that gives Woolworths a competitive advantage in the retail space. The business is huge, it is defensive, and Woolworths is well-known for its lengthy history of paying consistent, and sometimes generous, dividends.

Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL)

Soul Patts is Australian dividend royalty. The diversified Australian investment house pays its fully-franked dividends twice per year and has offered a consistent yield of 2.3% to 2.4% since 2016. In FY25, it paid a total $1.03 per share, 100% fully franked. Any investors which don't have Soul Patts in their portfolio should buy the ASX stock in 2026.

Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8) 

Investors looking for a reliable passive income but want the payouts to be more regular should look into Plato. It's a perfect ASX retirement stock that pays out around 4.58% every single month. The ASX dividend stock is focused on delivering high, reliable monthly income with franking credits from an actively managed, diversified portfolio of Australian shares.

The post My top 10 ASX stocks to buy for 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

If an investor were bent on just investing in individual companies, we at the Motley Fool would recommend a highly diversified portfolio of retirement stocks that covers most corners of the ASX.

But that is not the only path that would-be retirees can take with their ASX dividend shares. There's a rather unique stock out there right now that arguably fulfils every need a retiree might have. It is inherently diversified, offers a strong, fully-franked dividend yield, and pays out that dividend every single month. What's more, it is specifically tailored to cater to a retired investor.

This retirement stock is Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8).

What makes Plato a top ASX retirement stock?

Plato Income Maximiser is a listed investment company (LIC). LICs are companies that, instead of making goods or marketing a service, are investors themselves. A LIC typically owns an underlying portfolio of investments that it manages on behalf of its shareholders. As such, buying shares of a LIC is akin to buying a share of that underlying portfolio.

In Plato's case, that underlying portfolio is made up of a variety of ASX dividend stocks, all selected based on their dividend yield, as well as the perceived sustainability of that yield going forward.

These shares hail from across the ASX. Recently, they included Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS), and Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN), amongst others.

So what makes Plato a strong candidate for the ideal retirement stock? Well, its yield is a good start. Over the past 12 months, Plato shares have paid out 12 dividends, each worth 0.55 cents per share, fully franked. That 6.6 cents in annual dividends per share gives Plato a trailing yield of 4.56% at the current stock price (at the time of writing).

That's a fair bit of upfront cash flow every month. But Plato doesn't just deliver dividend returns. Its overall performance (share price growth plus dividends) has come in at 10.2% per annum since its inception in 2017. That's as of 30 November. Unlike many other would-be retirement stocks, that shows a track record of providing real capital growth alongside meaningful dividend income.

As such, I think this makes Plato a fantastic retirement stock to consider today.

The post The ideal retirement stock: 4.6% yield paying cash out every month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Mesoblast Ltd (ASX: MSB)

Mesoblast is a clinical-stage biotech company which develops and commercialises allogeneic cellular medicines to treat complex diseases. Its FDA-approved Ryoncil® product is in the market and the company is also in the process of developing other cellular medicines to treat other complex conditions. Some are already in the latter stages of their clinical trial pipelines. 

The company is well-positioned for growth and said it can draw additional capital from its convertible note facility as it continues to grow sales and broaden its cell therapy pipeline for other inflammatory conditions.

At the time of writing Mesoblast shares are up 2.89% for the day at $2.85 a piece. Analyst consensus is that there is a strong upside ahead for Mesoblast shares, with some forecasting a target price of $5.25. This implies the shares could hike another 84.11% over the next 12 months.

Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8) 

When it comes to income-generating stocks, I like the look of Plato right now. The ASX dividend share holds a portfolio of mature ASX-listed equities, cash, and listed futures. Its portfolio is mostly Australian companies with strong dividend payouts, which is very well diversified and liquid by design. 

Plato has consistently paid fully franked dividends of 0.55 cents per share every month since April 2022. The company said that it plans to keep its dividends steady going forward too, even amid market uncertainty. Plato is currently trading at $1.45 per share.

Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX)

The beaten-down stock has suffered multiple setbacks this year. Regulatory issues and broker downgrades have dampened investor sentiment. At the time of writing the ASX biotech company's shares have plunged another 7.56% to $11.61 a piece.

I think the tide is about to turn Telix though. The company has already had huge success with its flagship prostate cancer imaging product, Illuccix. Once it receives approval for Zircaix, it has the potential to open the door to another long road of growth. 

Analysts are very bullish too. Most have a buy or strong buy rating on the shares and think the shares could climb as high as $34.30 over the next 12 months. That's a huge potential 195.53% upside. It looks like today's crash could be a great buying opportunity.

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

It's been a year of ups and downs for the Australian financial technology company. But Zip has shown strong and improved earnings this year, and the company is continually pushing for even more growth. The business is actively broadening its product range and is also looking at ways to scale its US presence.

I think there is still some good momentum ahead for Zip shares. Analysts are mostly bullish on the stock and think the share price could climb as high as $6.20 in 2026. Using the $3.01 share price at the time of writing, that implies a massive potential 106.32% upside.

Telstra Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLS)

Telstra has been in the spotlight for a while now, and triple-0 concerns and buyback programs have dented its share price recently. At the time of writing the shares are $4.81 a piece.

But I like that Telstra is a defensive stock. The company tends to perform steadily, regardless of the stage of the economic cycle. And this is great news for investors who want to hedge against potential volatility elsewhere. 

The company has performed well this year and has outlined some great growth plans for 2026. I'm optimistic that these can be executed. Analysts are also mostly bullish. They expect the share price could rise as high as $5.40, which implies a potential 12.38% upside for investors at the time of writing.

The post 5 ASX shares I'd buy with $10,000 this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It's easy to find a great dividend-paying ASX stock, but most of those only pay their investors every 6 or 12 months. Retirees want one that pays money every single month.

I've previously written about the fantastic benefits of BetaShares Dividend Harvester Active ETF (ASX: HVST) and the Metrics Master Income Trust (ASX: MXT). Both are dividend stocks that pay cash every single month. 

But there's another great monthly-paying retirement stock which I think all Aussies should have in their portfolio.

Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8) 

Plato is a listed investment company (LIC) on the ASX that is focused on delivering high, reliable monthly income with franking credits from an actively managed, diversified portfolio of Australian shares. It is the first Australian listed investment company targeting to pay monthly dividends.

Its investment strategy targets income-focused investors, specifically SMSF and pension-phase investors who want a reliable and consistent income stream. Its objective is to outperform (after fees) the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) in total return terms, including franking credits, over the investment cycle, which is typically 3 to 5 years.

The ASX dividend stock holds a portfolio of mature ASX-listed equities, cash, and listed futures. Its portfolio is mostly comprised of Australian companies with strong dividend payouts, including major banks, mining giants, and energy companies.

As of 31 October this year, its portfolio included holdings in major stocks such as BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), CSL (ASX: CSL), Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), and Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA). 

At the time of writing, Plato's top yielding stock, with a portfolio weight greater than 0.5% and an annual yield of 10.4%, is Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT).

What does the retirement stock pay its investors each month?

Plato has consistently paid fully franked dividends of 0.55 cents per share every month since April 2022. The stock's dividend payment history dates back to October 2017, when it paid out a slightly lower 0.45 cents per share.

That equates to an annual running total of 6.6 cents per share in full franked passive income.

At the current price of $1.44 per share (at the time of writing), that gives a trailing dividend yield of 4.58%.

Plato plans to keep its dividend yield steady too

In October, Plato told its investors that although franked dividend yields on Australian shares continue to modestly decline, it was able to increase the dividends it collected during the September quarter in order to hold the dividend steady at 0.55 cents for the remainder of the year.

In an ASX note, the company explained that markets have continued their rally to all-time highs, spurred by interest rate cuts earlier in the year. But the outlook for the cash rate is uncertain.

"Dividends declared during the August reporting season fell 2.2%, driven by cuts from mining and energy companies in contrast to dividend increases from the financial and industrial sectors. This has led to a further fall in the historical yield of the Australian market. Despite the uncertainty in the global economy, we expect to continue to receive solid dividends from a diversified portfolio of Australian companies in FY26," the listed investment company said in its ASX note. 

"One of the benefits of a closed-end listed investment company focused on income, such as PL8, is the ability to manage capital amidst uncertainty so as to provide regular dividend distributions over time. In the ongoing environment of economic uncertainty, liquidity and diversification are very important. By design, PL8's underlying portfolio is well diversified and very liquid. PL8's investment portfolio is well positioned to capture dividends from Australian companies."

The post 1 perfect retirement stock with a 4.58% payout each month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Think of Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS), Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) or Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN). These aren't just stock ticker codes; they are businesses we've known and occasionally visited all our lives.

But not all great investments are household names. One of my favourite Australian stocks is one that most people haven't even heard of.

However, it does invest in the likes of CBA, Woolworths and Telstra itself. Let me explain.

The Australian stock goes by the name of Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8). Plato is a listed investment company (LIC), which essentially means it is a company that invests in other companies. 

In Plato's case, it does so by owning an underlying portfolio of ASX shares, which are owned and managed on behalf of Plato's shareholders. As the name implies, Plato constructs this portfolio with the aim of maximising dividend income for shareholders. You can see this in action with the company's holdings.

These currently include the likes of Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG), Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG), and Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS). That's amongst many others, including most of the names we touched on above.

Not only does this dividend stock utilise its holdings to pay out a relatively high dividend, with full franking credits attached, but it does so on a monthly basis. Yes, this is one of the ASX's rare monthly dividend payers.

What makes Plato a top Australian stock?

I was lucky enough to pick up shares of this Australian stock when it was trading with a dividend yield of close to 6%. Today, recent share price appreciation has reduced this yield to a still-respectable 4.65% or so.

However, I don't invest in Australian stocks solely for the purpose of generating income. Overall returns matter more to me than a high upfront dividend yield. But Plato shines in this arena as well. The company's portfolio returns have been 10.7% per annum since its inception in 2017 (as of 31 October), outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO)'s 10.5%. 

As such, I regard Plato as a top income investment on the ASX, and put it forward as quite possibly the best Australian stock you've never heard of. 

The post The best Australian stock you've never heard of appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.