Define: Record Date

Record Date
Record Date
Quick Summary of Record Date

The record date, also known as the date of record, is set by a company to determine which shareholders are eligible to receive dividends or vote on important matters. If you own shares in the company on or before the record date, you are entitled to these benefits. This date is crucial for the company to identify eligible shareholders.

Full Definition Of Record Date

The record date is the specific date on which a stockholder must possess shares in order to have the right to vote or receive a dividend. For instance, if a company announces a dividend on May 1st, the record date may be designated as May 15th. This implies that shareholders who own the stock on May 15th will be eligible to receive the dividend. The record date holds significance as it determines which shareholders are entitled to receive a dividend or participate in voting on company matters. Shareholders who possess the stock on or before the record date are known as “shareholders of record” and are eligible for these benefits. The company’s board of directors establishes the record date, typically a few weeks after the dividend declaration.

Record Date FAQ'S

A record date is the date set by a company to determine which shareholders are eligible to receive certain benefits, such as dividends or voting rights.

The record date is typically determined by the company’s board of directors and is usually set in advance, often in conjunction with the announcement of a dividend or a shareholders’ meeting.

Yes, the record date can be changed by the company if necessary. However, any changes must be communicated to the shareholders in a timely manner.

If you buy shares after the record date, you will not be eligible to receive the benefits associated with that particular record date. The benefits will instead go to the previous owner of the shares.

Yes, you can sell your shares after the record date and still receive the benefits associated with that record date. The benefits will be transferred to the new owner of the shares.

Yes, you can transfer your shares to someone else before the record date. However, the new owner will be the one eligible to receive the benefits associated with that record date.

If you own shares on the record date but sell them before the benefits are distributed, you will not be eligible to receive the benefits. The benefits will go to the new owner of the shares.

No, you cannot attend a shareholders’ meeting if you sell your shares before the meeting, even if you owned the shares on the record date. Only the current shareholders are eligible to attend and vote at the meeting.

Yes, the record date can be different for different benefits or events. For example, a company may have a separate record date for dividend payments and for voting at a shareholders’ meeting.

You can find out the record date for a specific company by checking their official announcements, such as press releases or filings with the relevant regulatory authorities. Additionally, your broker or financial advisor may also provide you with this information.

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Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

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