Each state has a different school holiday period, with NSW, Queensland, and Victoria among the states commencing holidays today.

Tasmania has the latest school holiday schedule this Easter season. The school break in our smallest state runs from 18 April to 3 May.

So, here's a list of all the ASX shares due to go ex-dividend over the coming weeks through to 3 May.

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

Ex-dividend dates give ASX investors two opportunities.

Either buy before the date to receive the dividend, or wait until ex-dividend day, when the share price will likely drop, to buy then.

ASX shares with ex-dividend dates this month

The post 21 ASX shares going ex-dividend over the school holidays appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Following earnings season in August, scores of ASX companies are paying out millions in dividends to shareholders.

Those participating in dividend reinvestment plans (DRPs) are receiving their new shares, typically on the same day that cash dividends are paid out.

If you'd like to receive any of the dividend payments below, you need to buy these ASX shares before their ex-dividend dates.

Each time a company announces its next dividend, investors have a typically short time period to invest anew or top up their holdings to maximise their dividend income.

Here at The Fool, we do not recommend buying shares in a company you have not researched just to get the next dividend payment.

Our stock analysts say the decision to invest should be much more considered and strategic than that, and based on fundamentals.

Many investors employ a dollar-cost averaging strategy on ex-dividend dates to reduce the average cost of their holdings over time.

These investors already own stock in the company.

They target the ex-dividend date for further purchasing because the share price tends to fall on the ex-dividend day, potentially providing an attractive buy-the-dip opportunity.

Here are 16 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week.

16 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week

The post 16 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Of course, the year isn't over, and anything can happen. But I'll risk prematurely counting my chickens to squeeze in my annual review before everyone is comatose from too much trifle and plum pudding… myself included.

Reflection is a grossly undervalued practice — not just for investing but also in life. After all, "Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it." By reviewing what has transpired before, we can better understand what should be done moving forward.

As of today, my stock-picking portfolio has returned 63.9% in 2024 (including dividends). How does that compare to the broader market? Below are a few indices to stack it up against:

• S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) gross total return of 12.3%
• S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) return of 27.6%
• Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQ: .IXIX) return of 35.0%
• iShares MSCI World ETF (NYSE: URTH) return of 22.3%

I won't claim to be some Sage of the Sunshine State. Some years are better than others, and to claim victory as an investor because of one good year would be fallacious. But there is merit in deciphering what worked and trying to replicate the success repeatedly.

What's inside the share portfolio?

In many ways, this year has been a continuation of the last. Again, tech and consumer discretionary have shined bright despite crimped household budgets.

Some of this is arguably fuelled by the excitement surrounding artificial intelligence. This is supported by such companies seeing their valuations soar more from an increasing price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio than profit growth.

It makes the stellar year somewhat hard to celebrate. Yes, in the short term, it's great for the ego and the wealth on paper. However, it's not what you want as an investor in the long run. The premium paid for a slice in a company can not expand forever; eventually, its earning power must support it.

A few of my top holdings, Tesla and Apple, are guilty of this earnings-deficient rally. The heightened premium probably reflects optimism about future profitability as we hopefully emerge from a high interest rate environment.

A few notable changes were made to my share portfolio this year.

• Increased my ResMed position
• Increased my Meta position (the owner of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp)
• Added Aristocrat Leisure
• Added Alphabet (the owner of Google)
• Reduced my Propel Funeral Partners position on dilutionary concerns
• Exited Duxton Water amid worsening execution
• Exited Elders on increasing margin pressure

Ultimately, my big winners of 2024 are Tesla, Palantir, Pro Medicus, ResMed, Meta, and Aristocrat. In many cases, these are companies that have been (and possibly continue to be) misunderstood.

ResMed is a prime example. Investors ditched the sleep apnea maker, worried that weight-loss drugs would demolish its market. So far, the impact has failed to materialise, with some suggesting the Ozempic craze is giving the sleep apnea market a boost.

I think the lesson here is that it pays to build conviction. Once you've built a conviction based on logic, it's much harder to lose money through emotionally driven decisions.

Change afoot in 2025

A big part of investing is knowing thyself.

I have limited mining knowledge. So, what am I doing investing in Lynas and Albemarle?

Both investments were added to my share portfolio several years ago, rooted in basic supply and demand principles.

While I've managed to achieve decent returns from both, it isn't a great way to invest realistically. A business is more than its market, and I don't possess the comprehension to understand whether Lynas or Albemarle are good companies compared to their peers based on their resources.

For the above reason, I'll probably sell a few positions in 2025 and redeploy the money to companies I can better understand.

The post These stocks made my share portfolio a market-beater in 2024 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In this article, I pull back the curtain on my entire personal portfolio — at least the portion I actively manage — to give some insight into portfolio construction, my 2023 mistakes, and where I most see opportunity for 2024 and beyond.

Let's begin.

Inside my share portfolio

Despite it being another eventful year full of trials and tribulations, equity markets are in the green as we approach the home stretch. The enticing proposition of 5% interest, or more, on cash savings has failed to put a dent in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) — returning 3.3% year-to-date at the time of writing.

Ironically, the tech and consumer discretionary sectors have been 2023's breadwinners — creating some juxtaposition with the ongoing economic tightening. Investors looking ahead to future interest rate cuts might have supported the buoyant optimism in these sectors.

Nonetheless, it meant a much rosier year for my share portfolio, recovering from a rough performance in 2022. As of 7 December 2023, my collection of companies had returned 30.1% YTD, exceeding the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) by approximately 10%.

While the result is good for the ego, I'll hold off until the 10-year or 20-year return before I go chalking up a win in my books. Still, I'm pleased with the refinement of my share portfolio this year — now holding the following companies:

The 10 largest equity positions in my portfolio constitute approximately 65% of my holdings. This is intentional. These positions are my highest conviction investments, the ones I'm most comfortable having large sums of money in.

During my almost seven years of investing, I've come to learn that time is your most scarce resource as an investor. As such, I dedicate the majority of my time and money towards the top 10 largest holdings in my share portfolio.

If I were to try to know all 22 companies intimately, I think I'd risk being stretched too thin. I still know the nuts and bolts of the remaining 12 companies, but not enough to warrant larger allocations of my wealth to them.

Biggest mistake of 2023

I was taught an expensive lesson this year by an investment in Unity Software Inc (NYSE: U).

Heading into 2023, the game development software company was one of my largest holdings. Due to its robust revenue growth, I was willing to look past the lack of profits. Unfortunately, I also overlooked a few red flags.

The first bright red flag… the company made an enormous US$4.4 billion acquisition at the end of 2022 before refining its own business — funded completely by issuing stock, no less. Secondly, the CEO, John Riccitiello, had a poor track record in making customer-friendly decisions.

Unity announced plans to charge game developers per game download, a move that reportedly would have bankrupted some. The move, since canned, was reminiscent of Riccitiello's proposition to charge Battlefield players to reload in-game.

I eventually sold out of Unity Software in May after learning the hard way how costly poor management can be.

Stock buying plans for 2024

As noted earlier, 14.5% of my share portfolio is sitting in cash. I plan to put this money to work as opportunities arise next year.

For example, Resmed is a relatively recent addition, getting added amid the Ozempic-driven sell-off. I still think the medical device maker trades at an attractive valuation. While weight-loss drugs are expected to reduce the sleep apnea market somewhat, I think the size of the forecast reduction is overblown.

Another ASX share I'm looking to add to is Sonic Healthcare. The chart below shows that Sonic is an insignificant holding in my share portfolio. The paltry position doesn't align with my level of conviction in the medical services provider — it should be much larger.

Lastly, several companies on my watchlist could find their way into my portfolio next year. I'd argue companies such as Kone Oyj, Trane Technologies PLC (NYSE: TT), Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL), and Nick Scali Limited (ASX: NCK) are high-quality and attractively priced.

The post Rare reveal: A glimpse into my complete share portfolio heading into 2024 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Let's take a look at how the company has been performing.

Shriro share price falls on 180% profit increase

The Shriro share price was tanking today despite the company reporting that total revenue across the group increased by 11.2% to $191.3 million during FY20. Shriro markets and distributes a range of brands spanning kitchenware, range hoods, instruments, watches, and BBQs. Although revenue was subdued during the first half due to COVID-19 lockdowns, the second half rebounded strongly.

The company noted that with people unable to travel, more spending went towards household items. Shriro witnessed significant growth in some of its products, such as the Everdure by Heston Blumental range, which grew by 65.2% compared to the prior corresponding period. 

Shriro also continued with its cost-cutting strategy during the year. Operating expenses declined by 11.8%, excluding government subsidies. The combination of increased revenues and reduced costs led to a substantial lift in profit. The company noted a 180% increase in net profit after tax to $18.2 million.

As a result of the plentiful profits, Shriro declared a final dividend of 4 cents per share fully franked. 

Outlook 

In looking to the future, Shriro remains cautious of further COVID-19 lockdowns. However, the company intends to reinstate its marketing expenditure in line with previous years to support future growth.

Additionally, management expects to add additional resources to capture market share. This is assisted by the continuing success of the Omega range, which was rolled out to retailers in the first quarter.

Furthermore, Shriro foresees international BBQ revenue to grow significantly as brand awareness of the Everdure range continues to grow.

At the end of December, the company recorded no debt and $17.6 million of cash on hand. 

Foolish takeaway

Despite underperforming today, the Shriro share price has risen by around 19% year to date and by more than 40% over the past year. Based on the current share price, Shriro has a market capitalisation of around $93 million.

The post Shriro (ASX:SHM) share price tumbles 7% despite profit surge appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

During afternoon trade, the Shriro share price hit a multi-year high of $1.02. Although its shares have since retreated somewhat, the Shriro share price is up 15% to 92 cents in today's session. In comparison, the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) is 0.6% lower to 6,922 points.

Quick take on Shriro

Shriro is a leading kitchen appliances and consumer products group that markets and distributes throughout Australia and New Zealand. The company operates in an array of consumer goods sectors including electronics, BBQ's and outdoor products, kitchen appliances, musical instruments, and personal effects.

Shriro's company-owned brands include Omega and Robinhood kitchen appliances and it also distributes third-party brands such Blanco and Casio in Australia and New Zealand.

Trading update and outlook

Today's soaring Shriro share price is testament that investors are excited about the company's progress to date.

According to its release, Shriro is continuing to see strong demand in its household-related goods for the fourth quarter. This follows communication to shareholders in an October trading update that advised revenues had increased 14% on the prior corresponding period.

Based on the current projections, Shriro is forecasting full-year revenue to be in the range of $180 million to $185 million.

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) is expected to be between $29 million to $31 million. And, net profit after tax is forecast within the vicinity of $15 million to $17 million.

Management said the strong result has benefitted from a number of payments and cost-cutting measures due to COVID-19. These included government wage subsidies of $3.7 million, and a head office lease exit benefit of $2.3 million. In addition, decisions were made by the company to reduce spend on marketing activities and decrease staff hours and travel. Furthermore, Shriro delayed the move to its new head office, which won't be completed until 2021.

In total, Shriro reported that these initiatives saved the business approximately $4 million. This offset the fall in revenue in March and April as a result of the COVID-19 lockdowns.

Shriro moved against providing a forecast of earnings for FY21, given the uncertain economic climate.

About the Shriro share price

The Shriro share price hit a multi-year high today of $1.02, strongly rebounding from its lows of 39 cents reached in March. Although, the company's shares have retreated slightly from this high, the Shriro share price is still up 33% since the start of 2020.

Shriro has a market capitalisation of $85.5 million and a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 10.2.

The post Shriro (ASX:SHM) share price hits multi-year high today. Here's why appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The Shriro share price is up by 13.7% in year to date trading despite falling about 44% during COVID-19 lockdowns.

At the time of writing, the Shriro share price was trading up 3.85% at 8.1 cents after an early high of 8.3 cents. Let's take a look at today's update.

What's behind the Shriro share price momentum?

The company distributes and manufactures home appliances, and distributes consumer electronics, in Australia and New Zealand. Today's announcement builds on the good news in the company's half year report to June.

During this period, sales revenue dropped by 1.8% but the company was able to increase net profit after tax by 74%. This was due to Shriro's cost control measures during the lockdown. These included rationalising office premises which started last year, postponing planned marketing expenditure and reducing staff working hours by 40%. In addition, there were full and partial stand‐downs of certain roles, and an agreement to reduce director and management pay by 20% and 40% respectively for April to May.

Casio calculators, keyboards and appliances for the residential renovation market performed well while watches underperformed through the period of retail closures and reduced consumer confidence. Watches have since recovered from May 2020.

The seasonal products division which includes heating, cooling and BBQs performed in line with the prior year. Although heater sales did not reach their full potential due to COVID‐19 related supply disruption. The Omega Appliances brand and product refresh occurred in the half and were successful in gaining increased in‐store brand presence. Greater investment in digital and ecommerce assets supports the brand refresh. 

What did management say?

Shriro's key trading period is in the months leading up to Christmas. Sales will undoubtedly be impacted by unannounced government directives.  However, despite the economic uncertainty, the company expects sales to remain resilient. Thus allowing continued focus on building brands that succeed into the future.

CEO Tim Hargreaves said:

We remain cautiously optimistic that Shriro is positioned for continued growth in Q4. However given the unpredictability of the economic climate and ongoing consumer-related effects stemming from COVID‐19, nothing can be certain.

The post Shriro (ASX:SHM) share price pops by 5.7% on update appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four shares that have fallen more than most today are listed below. Here's why they are sunk like stones:

The AMP Limited (ASX: AMP) share price has crashed 18% lower to $2.70. This morning the financial services company announced the completion of its portfolio review and provided an update on its third quarter cash flows. In respect to the former, following the review AMP has decided to sell its wealth protection and mature businesses. And for the latter, AMP reported a disappointing $1.5 billion net cash outflow for its Australian wealth management business during the last quarter.

The Blackmores Limited (ASX: BKL) share price is down 3% to $122.16 following the release of its first quarter update. The health supplements company has had a reasonably solid first quarter with sales growth being seen across the business. But this wasn't enough to stop its shares from being dragged lower by the market selloff today.

The Shriro Holdings Ltd (ASX: SHM) share price has plunged 26% lower to 69 cents after the appliance manufacturer downgraded its profit guidance yet again. Subdued market conditions have been blamed for its poor performance. Management expects net profit after tax to be between $7 million and $8 million, with EBITDA between $14.5 million and $15.5 million. This will be a substantial reduction on the previous year.

The Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL) share price has continued its slide and is down a further 8% to $7.68. Investors appear concerned by the retirement on its CEO early next year and the disruption that this may have on the company's current transformation plans. While I think that this is a buying opportunity, it might be best to let the dust settle before making a move.

The post Why these 4 ASX shares have sunk like stones today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In this area of the market there are a number of companies on the rise with the potential to grow their dividends significantly in the future.

Three which I think are worth a closer look are listed below. Here's why I like them:

Money3 Corporation Limited (ASX: MNY)

Money3 is a secured auto loans company on the rise. Although the company has been growing its market share at a strong rate, it still only has a 2% share of the secured second-hand automotive finance market. If the company continues its strong form and keeps winning more and more share of the market, then I suspect its earnings and dividend growth will continue to remain strong. Money3's shares currently offer a trailing fully franked 4.3% dividend.

Paragon Care Ltd. (ASX: PGC)

Paragon is a provider of integrated services to Australia's health and aged care markets. I think that these two markets have exceptionally strong organic growth potential over the next couple of decades, which could make Paragon worth considering. Especially given the opportunities it has to accelerate its growth through acquisitions. This could put Paragon in a position to grow its dividend meaningfully over the next few years. At present Paragon Care's shares provide a trailing fully franked 4.1% dividend.

Shriro Holdings Ltd (ASX: SHM)

Shriro is a kitchen appliance and consumer products company which has been growing its bottom line and dividend at a solid rate over the last few years. Despite this, its shares continue to trade at a lowly 9x trailing earnings. The good news for income investors is that this means that its shares provide a trailing fully franked 7.8% dividend at this level. If the company's international expansion goes well, I believe this dividend could continue to grow for many years to come.

The post 3 small cap dividend stars for income investors appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After all, some of these shares have the potential to grow their dividends significantly over the next few years, whereas many of their large cap rivals may at best have to keep their pay outs steady.

Three small cap dividend shares that I think are worth a closer look are as follows:

Baby Bunting Group Ltd (ASX: BBN)

Based on its last close price, this baby products retailer's shares currently offer investors a trailing fully franked 5.4% dividend. While I suspect that this dividend will remain flat at best in FY 2018 due to margin pressure from the clearance sales of closing competitors, once this short term headwind passes I expect Baby Bunting to win the vacated market share and deliver sizeable profit and dividend growth. This could mean it is worth considering a patient buy and hold investment today.

Money3 Corporation Limited (ASX: MNY)

I have been very impressed at the way Money3 has successfully transitioned away from payday loans to secured auto loans. But despite its early success, Money3 still only has a 2% share of the secured second-hand automotive finance market. Because of this, I think the company has a significantly long runway for growth ahead of it. Which would be great news for its future earnings and dividend growth. In respect to the latter, Money3's shares provide a trailing fully franked 4.3% dividend at present.

Shriro Holdings Ltd (ASX: SHM)

Shriro is a kitchen appliance and consumer products company which could be well worth a closer look. Despite delivering solid earnings per share and dividend growth over the last few years, Shriro's shares are still only trading at a lowly 9x trailing earnings and provide a trailing fully franked 8% dividend. While there are concerns that the local market has matured for it, the company is expanding internationally. If that is a success then it could continue its strong run for many years to come.

The post 3 top small cap dividend shares with generous yields appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

If this proves to be the case then the paltry interest rates on offer from savings accounts and term deposits are likely to be here for a long time to come.

Fortunately for income investors the local share market has a great number of quality dividend shares that provide generous yields.

Three of my favourites right now are listed below:

National Storage REIT (ASX: NSR)

As the largest self-storage operator in Australia/New Zealand with 127 centres, I believe National Storage is well-positioned to benefit from the growing demand for storage services. This rising demand could lead to high occupancy levels and ultimately solid profit and distribution growth. Another positive is the company's development pipeline which includes 11 new developments and several new expansion projects. In FY 2018 management has guided to a distribution of between 9.6 and 10 cents per share, equating to a yield of approximately 6%.

Shriro Holdings Ltd (ASX: SHM)

I think it is fair to say that this kitchen appliance and consumer products company is flying under the radar of most investors right now. Which I feel could make it a great time to snap up shares, especially as they trade at just 9x trailing earnings and offer a trailing fully franked 8% dividend. If the company's international expansion is a success, I expect it will be positioned perfectly to continue its solid profit and dividend growth for many years to come.

Telstra Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLS)

This telco giant's share price decline over the last 12 months has been a disaster for long-term shareholders, but for non-shareholders I think it is a buying opportunity. Especially as its plan to pay a 22 cents per share annual dividend equates to a fully franked 7.1% yield at the current share price. I remain confident that Telstra will be able to maintain this dividend for at least the next couple of years, after which a lot will depend on its cost cutting success, the arrival of 5G internet, and NBN margins.

The post These high-yielding dividend shares are on my shopping list appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But given their outlooks, I wouldn't expect a dividend increase any time soon.

Whereas the four small cap dividend shares listed below could be poised to increase theirs significantly in my opinion.

Here's why I think they are worth a closer look:

Codan Limited (ASX: CDA)

This radio communications, metal detection, and mining technology company's shares currently provide investors with a trailing fully franked 4.5% dividend. I've been impressed with the company's performance over the last 12 months and expect it to build on this thanks to new product releases and a global licensing agreement with U.S. giant Caterpillar for its Minetec business.

Dicker Data Ltd (ASX: DDR)

In FY 2018 this wholesale computer hardware and software distributor expects to raise its annual dividend to a fully franked 18 cents per share. Based on its current share price, this equates to a yield of 6.3%. I feel this is a very attractive yield in this low interest environment. This yield, its positive outlook, and robust business model could make Dicker Data a great option for investors.

Money3 Corporation Limited (ASX: MNY)

Money3 would be up there as one of my favourite small cap shares. While its shares are certainly not the bargain buy they were a year ago, I still see a lot of value in them. Especially given the early success that its secured auto loans business is having. The good news is that the company still only has a 2% share of the secured second-hand automotive finance market, which could mean plenty more growth ahead over the coming years. The company's shares provide a trailing fully franked 4.3% dividend at present.

Shriro Holdings Ltd (ASX: SHM)

Shriro is a kitchen appliance and consumer products company which I think could be destined for a bright future if its US expansion plans are a success. At just 9x trailing earnings and offering a trailing fully franked 8% dividend, I think an investment in its shares provide a compelling risk/reward.

The post 4 small cap shares with growing dividends appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Two analysts have named these small cap stocks as potential buys and its possible they've flown under your investor radar up until now.

Ruralco Holdings Ltd (ASX: RHL)

Agribusiness company Ruralco Holdings Ltd has caught the eye of Wilsons Asset Management analyst Peter Moran.

Ruralco Holdings has more than 40 specialist businesses operating across its network, with expertise in merchandise, fertiliser, wool, livestock, real estate, risk management, finance and insurance.

Ruralco Holdings was down 0.3% to $3 at the time of writing after a volatile 12-months of share prices from a $2.81 low at this time last year to a 52-week high of $3.30 in January, with Moran viewing the current share price as an "opportunity to buy".

Moran said while rural services sector growth rates were usually low, Ruralco Holdings has logged sustained growth, with the company's raft of acquisitions in its water services and rural supplies businesses the ones to watch.

Ruralco announced an underlying EBITDA of $65.4 million for FY17, up 58% on the previous corresponding period, with underlying NPAT driving up a whopping 95% over the same time period to $26.2 million.

Moran said Ruralco's continued cost-cutting should work to lift profits for future years with the company this month finalising the roll out of its digital transformation program to streamline sales.

Ruralco will hand down its interim report on May 15.

Shriro Holdings Ltd (ASX: SHM)

Kitchen appliance and consumer products company Shriro Holdings may only have a market cap of around $134 million, but according to Medallion Financial Group analyst Michael Wayne, its successful US expansion strategy could see this emerging small cap blossom.

Shriro Holdings market and distribute a range of products under well-known brands across Australia and New Zealand, including Omega, Robinhood, Everdure and Omega Altise.

Shriro Holdings shares were $1.41 at the time of writing with share prices on an upwards trend in the last 12-months from $1.30 at this time last year.

According to Wayne, Shriro's domestic operations are "mature" with "positive signs" emerging from the US expansion – especially out of the Everdure barbecue brand – which is targeting a 1% market share in US and German markets and could give earnings a significant boost.

Wayne said Shriro investors were "essentially getting a free option" on the company's US and German barbecue market expansion, with Shriro trading at 9 times earnings and paying an 8% fully-franked dividend yield.

Shriro released its annual report on March 15, with highlights including a revenue boost of 2.6% on the previous corresponding period to $188.3 million thanks to growth in the Everdure and Omega Altise brands.

Further product releases are planned throughout 2018, with Shriro leveraging on its product development strength in 2017 to book solid results, reporting a FY17 NPAT of $14.5 million, up 9.8% from the previous corresponding period and a reduction of $2 million in net debt at December 31, 2017 with a net debt to EBITDA multiple of only 0.1 times.

The company's FY18 outlook includes plans to identify potential acquisitions in product categories consistent with Shriro's core competencies and a focus on increasing presence in overseas markets.

The post Two under the radar small caps analysts think you should buy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shriro Holdings Ltd (ASX: SHM) is a distributor of home and consumer appliances. Some of the company's brands include Casio, Omega and Blanco.

In its first year as a listed entity, Shriro delivered net profit after tax (NPAT) of $12.4 million smashing its prospectus forecast by 24%. The 2015 result was also 39.3% up on the previous year's result of $8.9 million.

The company's dividend policy is to pay out 60% of NPAT and so the stock has a stonking dividend yield of 7.3% based on 2015 results.

In a similar strategy to Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG), Shriro is teaming up with celebrity chefs to promote its products. It has launched the Neil Perry Kitchen under its Omega brand and recently announced that Heston Blumenthal will be the face of its Everdure barbecue range.

Shriro's fortunes are partly tied to the housing market which might explain why the shares are so cheap. It is trading on a price-to-earnings ratio (PER) of just 8.2 based on last year's results.

Similarly, some investors may consider Fiducian Group Ltd (ASX: FID) risky because of its exposure to financial markets. The group provides investment services under an integrated model and its main business segments include platform administration, financial planning and funds management.

On Monday, Fiducian announced an impressive set of results for 2016 with underlying NPAT up 22.4% to $7 million and underlying earnings-per-share (EPS) up 21.5% to 22.6 cents. Dividends rose 25% to 12.5 cents for the year and so the stock comes with a solid dividend yield of 4.2%.

Total funds under management, advice and administration (FUMAA) are the main driver of Fiducian's performance and these were up 16% to $4.7 billion in 2016. The group will look to continue to grow FUMAA via acquisitions and organically by delivering excellent service. Over the past 10 years, Fiducian's funds have delivered top quartile performance 36 out of 37 times compared to Australian and International managers according to Morningstar.

Fiducian acquired financial planners with a total of $243 million under advice during 2016. Once acquired, the group can often bring clients across to its administration platform and managed funds thereby capturing a higher fee percentage.

Despite a 10.7% rise in share price yesterday, Fiducian is trading on a reasonable PER of 13.2 based on 2016 results.

Elanor Investors Group (ASX: ENN) is also a fund manager but operates in the property sector, with a particular emphasis on tourism and retail. The group invests its own capital as well as that of others, usually in its managed funds alongside its clients.

Elanor expects to deliver core EPS of 16.2 cents in 2016, up 14.8% on 2015 and a total distribution of 14.6 cents, up 22.7% from a year earlier. This implies a PER of 13.1 and a terrific dividend yield of 6.9% at current prices.

The company recently raised $30 million of equity and will use the proceeds to launch an ASX listed real estate investment trust (REIT) and a private commercial property fund. It intends to retain a holding of 15% in both funds and hopes to earn at least double-digit returns for shareholders from management fees and its share of distributions.

Elanor owns a valuable property in Merrylands Sydney, with planning permission for 540 apartments and a substantial area of retail space which it has recently put up for sale. It was acquired in July 2014 as part of the John Cootes furniture chain and is valued at $16.3 million in Elanor's accounts. However, the sale price is likely to be much higher than its book value and so the company expects to realise an "outstanding profit" on the property.

The post 3 bargain small caps with huge dividends to buy today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I wrote last week why dividend-paying stocks tend to outperform those companies that choose not to pay dividends, and that's why I prefer companies that pay you to own them.

And in this low-interest rate environment when bank deposits will be lucky to pay you 2.3% (excluding bonus interest), finding and investing in shares with dividend yields of more than 5% fully franked is a virtual no-brainer.

Here are three companies that are often overlooked by investors but pay out wonderful dividends.

Retail Food Group Limited (ASX: RFG)

One of Australia's leading franchisors with major brands including Gloria Jeans, Donut King, Michel's Patisserie, Esquires, Pizza Capers and Crust Gourmet Pizza, Retail Food Group current sports a dividend yield of 4.5%, fully franked. But thanks to strong earnings growth, the dividend yield could jump to as much as 5.4% (or 7.7% grossed up for franking credits) in the next year.

Tamawood Limited (ASX: TWD)

Tamawood is a home designer selling houses through its Dixon Homes brand, and has been able to generate impressive returns – even when the housing market slumped to a 20-year low in 2001, following the introduction of the GST in 2000. Boasting a dividend yield of 8.4% – which grosses up to 12% when you include franking credits, Tamawood shares are also trading at a cheap price. Amazingly, Tamawood has an average dividend yield of 9.7% over the past decade according to Commsec.

Shriro Holdings Ltd (ASX: SHM)

Shriro is a distributor of kitchen appliances, fititngs and fixtures throughout Australia and New Zealand with several brands including a number of its own brands. Shriro has formed partnerships with a number of reknowned chefs including Neil Perry for a range of kitchen appliances and more recently UK celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal to create a worldwide Barbeque brand. Currently trading on a trailing P/E ratio of just 6.5x and paying a 7% fully franked dividend, Shriro is forecasting modest growth in 2016 as it invests in its BBQ launch, but expects stronger growth in 2017/18 with new product launches.

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