The following is a short list of some of the many stocks going ex-dividend during the next month, which can be helpful for traders and investors interested in the stock trading technique known as “Buying Dividends” or “Dividend Capture.” This strategy involves purchasing stocks before the ex dividend date and selling them shortly after the ex-date at a similar price, while still being eligible to receive the dividend payment.
Although this dividend capture strategy generally proves effective in bull markets and flat or choppy markets, it is advisable to exercise caution and consider avoiding this strategy during bear markets. To qualify for the dividend, it is necessary to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date and refrain from selling it until on or after the ex-date.
However, it is important to note that the actual dividend may not be paid for several weeks, as the payment date may not be until two months after the ex-dividend date.
For investors seeking a comprehensive list of stocks going ex-dividend in the near future, WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has compiled a downloadable list containing numerous dividend-paying companies. Here are a few examples showcasing the stock symbol, ex-dividend date, periodic dividend amount, and annual yield.
Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST)
5/1/2026
1.47
0.59%
Walmart Inc. (WMT)
5/8/2026
0.2475
0.77%
SiriusXM Holdings Inc. (SIRI)
5/11/2026
0.27
4.04%
Phillips Edison & Company, Inc. (PECO)
5/15/2026
0.1083
3.26%
Starbucks Corporation (SBUX)
5/15/2026
0.62
2.35%
Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)
5/21/2026
0.91
0.86%
T-Mobile US, Inc. (TMUS)
5/29/2026
1.02
2.06%
To access the entire list of over 100 ex-dividend stocks, subscribers will receive an email in the next couple days with the full list. If you are not already a subscriber, you can sign up using the provided signup box below. Don’t miss out on this valuable information, and the best part is that it’s free!
Dividend Definitions
To better understand the dividend-related terms, let’s define them:
Declaration date: This refers to the day when a company announces its intention to distribute a dividend in the future. Ex-dividend date: On this day, if you purchase the stock, you would not be eligible to receive the upcoming dividend. It is also the first day on which a shareholder can sell their shares and still receive the dividend. Record date: This marks the day when you must be recorded on the company’s books as a shareholder to qualify for the dividend. Typically, the ex-dividend date is set two business days prior to the record date. Payment date: This is the day on which the dividend payment is actually made to the eligible shareholders. It’s important to note that the payment date can be as long as two months after the ex-date.
Before implementing the “Buying Dividends” technique, it is crucial to reconfirm the ex-dividend date with the respective company to ensure accuracy and avoid any unexpected changes.
In conclusion, being aware of the stocks going ex-dividend can be advantageous for traders and investors employing the “Buying Dividends” strategy. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com provides a convenient resource to access a comprehensive list of such stocks, allowing individuals to plan their investment decisions effectively. Remember to stay informed and consider market conditions before employing any investment strategy.
Disclosure: Author may have positions in some of the above at the time the article was written.No investment recommendations are expressed or implied
The following is a short list of some of the many stocks going ex-dividend during the next month, which can be helpful for traders and investors interested in the stock trading technique known as “Buying Dividends” or “Dividend Capture.” This strategy involves purchasing stocks before the ex dividend date and selling them shortly after the ex-date at a similar price, while still being eligible to receive the dividend payment.
Although this dividend capture strategy generally proves effective in bull markets and flat or choppy markets, it is advisable to exercise caution and consider avoiding this strategy during bear markets. To qualify for the dividend, it is necessary to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date and refrain from selling it until on or after the ex-date.
However, it is important to note that the actual dividend may not be paid for several weeks, as the payment date may not be until two months after the ex-dividend date.
For investors seeking a comprehensive list of stocks going ex-dividend in the near future, WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has compiled a downloadable list containing numerous dividend-paying companies. Here are a few examples showcasing the stock symbol, ex-dividend date, periodic dividend amount, and annual yield.
Five Star Bancorp (FSBC)
2/2/2026
0.25
2.53%
Papa John’s International, Inc (PZZA)
2/9/2026
0.46
5.23%
Starbucks Corporation (SBUX)
2/13/2026
0.62
2.64%
Amgen Inc. (AMGN)
2/13/2026
2.52
2.82%
Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)
2/19/2026
0.91
0.85%
T-Mobile US, Inc. (TMUS)
2/27/2026
1.02
2.16%
To access the entire list of over 100 ex-dividend stocks, subscribers will receive an email in the next couple days with the full list. If you are not already a subscriber, you can sign up using the provided signup box below. Don’t miss out on this valuable information, and the best part is that it’s free!
Dividend Definitions
To better understand the dividend-related terms, let’s define them:
Declaration date: This refers to the day when a company announces its intention to distribute a dividend in the future. Ex-dividend date: On this day, if you purchase the stock, you would not be eligible to receive the upcoming dividend. It is also the first day on which a shareholder can sell their shares and still receive the dividend. Record date: This marks the day when you must be recorded on the company’s books as a shareholder to qualify for the dividend. Typically, the ex-dividend date is set two business days prior to the record date. Payment date: This is the day on which the dividend payment is actually made to the eligible shareholders. It’s important to note that the payment date can be as long as two months after the ex-date.
Before implementing the “Buying Dividends” technique, it is crucial to reconfirm the ex-dividend date with the respective company to ensure accuracy and avoid any unexpected changes.
In conclusion, being aware of the stocks going ex-dividend can be advantageous for traders and investors employing the “Buying Dividends” strategy. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com provides a convenient resource to access a comprehensive list of such stocks, allowing individuals to plan their investment decisions effectively. Remember to stay informed and consider market conditions before employing any investment strategy.
Disclosure: Author may have positions in some of the above at the time the article was written.No investment recommendations are expressed or implied.
The following is a short list of some of the many stocks going ex-dividend during the next month, which can be helpful for traders and investors interested in the stock trading technique known as “Buying Dividends” or “Dividend Capture.” This strategy involves purchasing stocks before the ex dividend date and selling them shortly after the ex-date at a similar price, while still being eligible to receive the dividend payment.
Although this dividend capture strategy generally proves effective in bull markets and flat or choppy markets, it is advisable to exercise caution and consider avoiding this strategy during bear markets. To qualify for the dividend, it is necessary to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date and refrain from selling it until on or after the ex-date.
However, it is important to note that the actual dividend may not be paid for several weeks, as the payment date may not be until two months after the ex-dividend date.
For investors seeking a comprehensive list of stocks going ex-dividend in the near future, WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has compiled a downloadable list containing numerous dividend-paying companies. Here are a few examples showcasing the stock symbol, ex-dividend date, periodic dividend amount, and annual yield.
SiriusXM Holdings Inc. (SIRI)
11/5/2025
0.27
4.98%
American Electric Power Company, Inc. (AEP)
11/10/2025
0.95
3.16%
Starbucks Corporation (SBUX)
11/14/2025
0.62
3.07%
PayPal Holdings, Inc. (PYPL)
11/19/2025
0.14
0.81%
Applied Materials, Inc. (AMAT)
11/20/2025
0.46
0.79%
Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)
11/20/2025
0.91
0.70%
T-Mobile US, Inc. (TMUS)
11/26/2025
1.02
1.94%
To access the entire list of over 100 ex-dividend stocks, subscribers will receive an email in the next couple days with the full list. If you are not already a subscriber, you can sign up using the provided signup box below. Don’t miss out on this valuable information, and the best part is that it’s free!
Dividend Definitions
To better understand the dividend-related terms, let’s define them:
Declaration date: This refers to the day when a company announces its intention to distribute a dividend in the future. Ex-dividend date: On this day, if you purchase the stock, you would not be eligible to receive the upcoming dividend. It is also the first day on which a shareholder can sell their shares and still receive the dividend. Record date: This marks the day when you must be recorded on the company’s books as a shareholder to qualify for the dividend. Typically, the ex-dividend date is set two business days prior to the record date. Payment date: This is the day on which the dividend payment is actually made to the eligible shareholders. It’s important to note that the payment date can be as long as two months after the ex-date.
Before implementing the “Buying Dividends” technique, it is crucial to reconfirm the ex-dividend date with the respective company to ensure accuracy and avoid any unexpected changes.
In conclusion, being aware of the stocks going ex-dividend can be advantageous for traders and investors employing the “Buying Dividends” strategy. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com provides a convenient resource to access a comprehensive list of such stocks, allowing individuals to plan their investment decisions effectively. Remember to stay informed and consider market conditions before employing any investment strategy.
Disclosure: Author may have positions in some of the above at the time the article was written.No investment recommendations are expressed or implied.
Recent weeks have been characterized by intense market activity, but this activity is not uniform. The most prominent and influential sectors have been Information Technology and Communication Services, where performance is being driven by the relentless advancement of generative AI and strong growth in the digital engagement economy. These sectors, which represent a significant portion of the S&P 500, have been the primary engines of the market’s recent rally.
However, the term “active” also encompasses periods of extreme volatility and weakness. This is most acutely demonstrated in the Healthcare sector, which has been highly active due to a dramatic bifurcation in performance. A major sell-off in the health insurance sub-industry, triggered by fundamental business challenges and disappointing earnings, stands in stark contrast to robust growth and investor confidence in pharmaceuticals and biopharma. The broader market is navigating a complex macroeconomic landscape. While optimism over strong corporate earnings and the potential for a Federal Reserve rate cut provides a powerful tailwind, this is tempered by persistent risks from rising bond yields and escalating geopolitical tensions over tariffs. This dynamic creates a push-pull effect, demanding a highly selective and data-driven investment approach from market participants.
The Macroeconomic Backdrop: A Push-Pull Market Environment
To properly understand the recent trends in specific industries, it is essential to first analyze the broader macroeconomic context. The market has been operating in a complex environment defined by a combination of positive catalysts and persistent risks.
The overall sentiment has been cautiously optimistic, leading to positive performance in the major US stock indexes. The S&P 500 recently rose 0.8% in a single day, leaving it just shy of a new record set the previous week. The Nasdaq composite, which is heavily weighted toward technology and growth companies, added 1% to reach a new record high.Over a trailing one-month period, the S&P 500 has climbed 2.01% and is up 19.56% year-over-year. The Nasdaq has also shown significant strength, rising 3.9% over the past week and 11.1% over the last four weeks. The fact that the Nasdaq Composite is reaching new records while the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average are showing more modest gains suggests that the current market rally is not a broad-based, all-boats-rising tide. Instead, it indicates that capital is disproportionately flowing into the technology and communication services sectors, which are the primary constituents of the Nasdaq. This targeted rally supports the central thesis that these specific sectors are highly active and influential.
The market is also contending with a series of significant economic drivers and risks. A major source of optimism stems from the prospect of potential interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve later in 2025. This sentiment was strengthened following a weaker-than-expected US jobs report, which firmed up expectations for a rate cut at the Fed’s policy meeting in September. The possibility of lower interest rates is generally seen as a positive for equities, as it can reduce borrowing costs and stimulate economic activity. However, this positive force is being counteracted by persistent risks from rising bond yields. A rise in the “term premium”—the additional compensation lenders demand for longer-term loans—has been putting upward pressure on bond yields, which in turn pressures stock price-earnings (P/E) ratios and stock prices. This dynamic is a core reason why some analysts believe the market could be confined to a “trading range” for the remainder of 2025, as this push-pull effect creates natural upper and lower boundaries.
Another significant geopolitical headwind is the return of “hawkish tariff talk”. Investors are concerned that new tariff measures could harm corporate margins and disrupt global trade. This is not a theoretical risk; the decision by the US to raise tariffs on Indian exports to 50% caused a significant sell-off in export-oriented sectors and led to Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) pulling billions of dollars out of Indian equities. The market is also operating with major indices near record levels, which places a high burden on companies to deliver exceptional performance to justify their current valuations. With the market not priced for an adverse outcome, any negative news or macroeconomic surprises could trigger significant volatility. This environment underscores the need for selective investing, as only companies with strong fundamentals and innovative growth drivers can sustain investor confidence.
To provide a foundational, data-rich overview of the market’s structure, the following table details the weighting and recent performance of the sectors within the S&P 500.
Sector
Weighting in S&P 500 (%)
Trailing six-month performance (%)
Trailing 12-month performance (%)
Information Technology
31.6
-0.4
14.6
Financials
14.3
0.1
26.1
Consumer Discretionary
10.6
-3.7
21.7
Communication Services
9.6
7.3
20.9
Health Care
9.6
-9.1
-4.7
Industrials
8.7
0.2
18.9
Consumer Staples
5.9
3.1
15.8
Energy
3.0
-13.0
-7.3
Real Estate
2.1
-5.5
15.9
Utilities
2.5
0.4
18.2
S&P 500 Index
-1.3
14.4
Data from Schwab, as of July 18, 2025
The Engines of Growth: Technology and Communication Services
The most active and influential sectors in the market over the last few weeks have been Information Technology and Communication Services. Their outperformance has been driven by a confluence of powerful trends, most notably the generative AI revolution and the continued expansion of the digital engagement economy.
Information Technology: The Generative AI Revolution
The Information Technology sector, with an enormous 34.0% weighting in the S&P 500, has been the single largest driver of overall market performance. The central catalyst for this activity is the ongoing and accelerating generative AI boom. This is not merely a passing trend but a transformative force that is already leading to billions of dollars in productivity gains as companies leverage AI assistants to help human developers write and test code. The demand for computing power to support these workloads is exponentially increasing, capturing the attention of both management teams and the public.
The recent Q2 2025 earnings reports from major tech companies provide concrete evidence of how this trend is translating into tangible financial results. Shares of Meta Platforms (META) jumped 11% to an all-time high following a strong report, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg crediting AI for unlocking greater efficiency and gains in their ad system. Amazon’s (AMZN) revenue grew 13% year-over-year, and its cloud services division (AWS) revenue increased 18%, both exceeding analyst projections. Microsoft (MSFT) also paced sector gains after releasing its earnings report. Even companies like Apple (AAPL), which are seen as less directly involved in AI infrastructure, are benefiting; its iPhone sales climbed 13%, and its total number of active devices reached an all-time high, indicating strong consumer engagement with the digital ecosystem.
The AI story extends far beyond the final software or platform product. It has created a complex value chain that is driving activity in hardware and infrastructure. The semiconductor industry, which is the foundational layer for AI, is projected for double-digit revenue growth in 2025, primarily driven by the surging demand for gen AI chips such as CPUs, GPUs, and data center communications chips. This trend is benefiting a wide range of companies, from market giants to specialized players.
For example, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) ranked among the best-performing stocks in July 2025, and some analysts see Micron Technology as an undervalued stock to watch, noting that it is the “preferred memory provider” for Nvidia’s latest AI accelerators. The fact that investors are actively pursuing companies in the hardware and memory space demonstrates a thorough understanding of the AI value chain. The demand for compute-intensive workloads is creating new challenges for global infrastructure, from data center power constraints to supply chain delays, which implies that the investment theme will continue to expand into a broader range of infrastructure-related companies.
Communication Services: The Resurgence of Digital Engagement
The Communication Services sector, with a substantial 9.6% weighting in the S&P 500, has also been a highly active area for investors, exhibiting a robust 20.9% performance over the trailing 12 months. This sector relies heavily on advertising and subscription-based revenue, which tends to rise when the economy is expanding. The recent stock activity and corporate results provide a clear picture of this trend in action.
A compelling case study is the performance of Roblox (RBLX), an online gaming and game creation platform. Its stock was one of the best performers in July 2025, with shares soaring by 19.66% in pre-market trading after a strong Q2 earnings report. The exceptional results were driven by significant growth in key metrics: revenue was up 21% year-over-year, bookings increased by an impressive 51%, and Daily Active Users (DAUs) grew by 41% to over 111 million. This growth was fueled by new, viral content, such as the game “Grow a Garden,” which was launched in March 2025 and set a world record for concurrent users in Q2. The fact that DAUs aged 13 and over now account for 64% of total users and 66% of all hours played suggests a maturing user base with significant spending power, signaling strength in the broader digital economy.
The sector’s activity is not limited to gaming. Comcast, a telecommunications and entertainment giant, also saw its stock rise more than 2% after beating earnings estimates. The company’s Q2 results were mixed but showcased strategic strengths; while it lost video and residential voice customers, it saw revenue growth in its domestic broadband and wireless divisions. The company also benefited from the successful opening of its Epic Universe theme park, which led to a 6% growth in its Content and Experiences segment. However, not all companies in the sector fared as well, with Charter Communications being listed as one of the worst-performing stocks of July 2025. This divergence highlights that even within a highly active sector, a selective approach is crucial.
The Paradox of Activity: Healthcare’s Bifurcated Market
The Healthcare sector provides a critical, nuanced perspective on market “activity.” While the sector has a significant weighting in the S&P 500, its recent performance is a study in contradiction. Instead of moving in a single direction, capital flows have been dramatically bifurcated, with investors punishing one sub-industry while rewarding others based on their business models and innovation.
The most dramatic recent market activity in Healthcare has been a major sell-off in the health insurance sub-industry. A cluster of major companies, including Centene and Molina Healthcare, ranked among the worst-performing stocks of July 2025. The reason for the sell-off was not just market sentiment but a series of fundamental business problems. Centene, for example, saw its stock plummet after it pulled its full-year 2025 earnings guidance. The company revealed that enrollment numbers in its health insurance marketplaces were lower than expected and that the enrollees were generally less healthy, leading to a stunning $1.8 billion shortfall in its risk-adjustment program. This is a systemic issue within the managed healthcare industry: the challenge of managing costs in an environment of rising utilization and higher-than-expected patient morbidity. Similarly, Molina Healthcare reported a year-over-year decrease in adjusted net income and a higher Medical Care Ratio (MCR) for its Marketplace business, indicating that the costs of providing care are rising faster than revenue. The fact that this problem is being cited across the sector, with other insurers like UnitedHealth Group also suspending their guidance, demonstrates that this is not an isolated event but a deep-seated challenge facing the business model itself.
In stark contrast, other parts of the Healthcare sector are thriving. A list of “best healthcare stocks to buy” is dominated by companies in drug manufacturers, medical devices, and diagnostics & research. These companies are being rewarded for having strong “economic moats,” which are competitive advantages that protect their long-term profitability. For example, Novo Nordisk (NVO) is highlighted for its dominance in the diabetes and obesity treatment markets, with its innovative GLP-1 therapies providing a strong barrier against competition. Merck is also noted for its strong drug pipeline and high-margin product lineup. This flight to quality and innovation is further evidenced by a list of high-growth technology companies that includes several biopharmaceutical firms, suggesting that investor enthusiasm for technology extends to its application in drug discovery and development. This bifurcated flow of capital is confirmed by the prominence of Pharmaceutical ETFs, which have significant weightings in companies like Eli Lilly, AbbVie, and Johnson & Johnson. The stark difference in performance suggests that investors are actively punishing companies with strained business models while rewarding those with strong, innovation-driven competitive advantages.
The following tables visually represent the divergence in performance within the Healthcare sector and across other industries.
Top Performers (July 2025)
Sector
Underperformers (July 2025)
Sector
Comfort Systems USA (FIX)
Industrials
Centene (CNC)
Healthcare
Roblox (RBLX)
Communication Services
Molina Healthcare (MOH)
Healthcare
GE Vernova (GEV)
Industrials
Charter Communications (CHTR)
Communication Services
PTC (PTC)
Technology
Align Technology (ALGN)
Healthcare
Advanced Micro Devices (AMD)
Technology
Liberty Broadband (LBRDA)
Communication Services
Data from Morningstar, as of August 1, 2025
Conclusion: Implications for Investors and Forward Outlook
The most active industries for stock investors in the last few weeks have been Information Technology and Communication Services, driven by a powerful and concentrated rally around generative AI and digital engagement platforms. These sectors are providing the primary momentum for the broader market, with strong corporate earnings justifying high valuations and fueling investor optimism. However, the term “active” is also defined by a significant and telling divergence, most evident in the Healthcare sector, where investors are fleeing from managed care companies facing systemic cost issues and re-allocating capital toward innovative, moat-protected biopharma and medical device companies.
For investors, this bifurcated market presents a critical lesson: selectivity is paramount. A broad, passive approach to a sector like Healthcare would have been disastrous in July, while a highly selective approach could have yielded significant returns. The outsized influence of a few mega-cap technology stocks presents a concentrated opportunity, but also a risk if those companies fail to deliver. This is reinforced by the broader macroeconomic picture, which suggests a potentially “rangebound” market for the remainder of 2025. This environment highlights the value of diversification, not only across sectors but also into other asset classes like international stocks and precious metals.
The forward trajectory of these active industries will likely be determined by three key factors. First, the pace of AI innovation and adoption will continue to be a primary driver. The market will be watching to see if demand for AI hardware and software can continue to drive earnings, or if scaling challenges and new competitors will temper growth.Second, the market’s direction will be dictated by the delicate balance between corporate earnings and macro policy. Companies must continue to deliver strong results to justify their high valuations, especially in the face of rising bond yields and geopolitical tariff risks. Finally, the Healthcare sector’s path forward depends on how the health insurance sub-industry responds to its fundamental cost challenges, and whether the pharmaceutical sub-industry can continue its innovation-driven growth, which has proven to be a shield against broader market pressures.
Disclosure: Author owns several of the above mentioned stocks including AAPL, AMZN, and MSFT.
The following is a short list of some of the many stocks going ex-dividend during the next month, which can be helpful for traders and investors interested in the stock trading technique known as “Buying Dividends” or “Dividend Capture.” This strategy involves purchasing stocks before the ex dividend date and selling them shortly after the ex-date at a similar price, while still being eligible to receive the dividend payment.
Although this dividend capture strategy generally proves effective in bull markets and flat or choppy markets, it is advisable to exercise caution and consider avoiding this strategy during bear markets. To qualify for the dividend, it is necessary to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date and refrain from selling it until on or after the ex-date.
However, it is important to note that the actual dividend may not be paid for several weeks, as the payment date may not be until two months after the ex-dividend date.
For investors seeking a comprehensive list of stocks going ex-dividend in the near future, WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has compiled a downloadable list containing numerous dividend-paying companies. Here are a few examples showcasing the stock symbol, ex-dividend date, periodic dividend amount, and annual yield.
Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST)
8/1/2025
1.30
0.56%
American Electric Power Company, Inc. (AEP)
8/8/2025
0.93
3.41%
Starbucks Corporation (SBUX)
8/15/2025
0.61
2.60%
Horizon Technology Finance Corporation (HRZN)
8/18/2025
0.11
15.68%
Applied Materials, Inc. (AMAT)
8/21/2025
0.46
0.98%
Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)
8/21/2025
0.83
0.65%
CSX Corporation (CSX)
8/29/2025
0.13
1.49%
T-Mobile US, Inc. (TMUS)
8/29/2025
0.88
1.42%
To access the entire list of over 100 ex-dividend stocks, subscribers will receive an email in the next couple days with the full list. If you are not already a subscriber, you can sign up using the provided signup box below. Don’t miss out on this valuable information, and the best part is that it’s free!
Dividend Definitions
To better understand the dividend-related terms, let’s define them:
Declaration date: This refers to the day when a company announces its intention to distribute a dividend in the future. Ex-dividend date: On this day, if you purchase the stock, you would not be eligible to receive the upcoming dividend. It is also the first day on which a shareholder can sell their shares and still receive the dividend. Record date: This marks the day when you must be recorded on the company’s books as a shareholder to qualify for the dividend. Typically, the ex-dividend date is set two business days prior to the record date. Payment date: This is the day on which the dividend payment is actually made to the eligible shareholders. It’s important to note that the payment date can be as long as two months after the ex-date.
Before implementing the “Buying Dividends” technique, it is crucial to reconfirm the ex-dividend date with the respective company to ensure accuracy and avoid any unexpected changes.
In conclusion, being aware of the stocks going ex-dividend can be advantageous for traders and investors employing the “Buying Dividends” strategy. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com provides a convenient resource to access a comprehensive list of such stocks, allowing individuals to plan their investment decisions effectively. Remember to stay informed and consider market conditions before employing any investment strategy.
Disclosure: Author may have positions in some of the above at the time the article was written.
As graduation approaches, many families face one of the biggest decisions of a young person’s life: Should I go to college? For decades, the answer was automatic—college was seen as the surest path to success. But with rising tuition costs, student debt, and alternative career paths gaining traction, students and parents alike are asking a new question: Is a college degree really worth the investment?
Here’s a balanced look at the advantages and disadvantages of getting a college degree, tailored for families weighing both the personal and financial implications.
Advantages of a College Degree
1. Better Job Prospects and Earning Potential College graduates tend to earn more over their lifetimes. Many well-paying professions—like engineering, medicine, law, and finance—require a degree to even get in the door. A degree can also open up more stable, long-term career paths with benefits like healthcare and retirement plans.
2. Professional and Personal Growth College isn’t just about lectures and exams. It helps students develop critical thinking, communication, and time-management skills. Living away from home can also foster independence, resilience, and social maturity.
3. Networking Opportunities College campuses are full of future colleagues, business partners, mentors, and job leads. Professors, alumni networks, and internship programs often become valuable stepping stones into competitive industries.
4. Access to Careers That Require a Degree Some jobs—especially in education, healthcare, and science—legally or practically require a college education. Without a degree, these paths are not accessible.
Disadvantages of a College Degree
1. High Costs and Student Debt Tuition, housing, books, and fees can add up to tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Many students graduate with significant debt that takes years—or even decades—to repay. For parents, college can mean dipping into retirement savings or taking on loans themselves.
2. Not Always Necessary for Success Tech, trades, arts, and entrepreneurship often reward skills, experience, and creativity more than diplomas. Self-taught developers, digital marketers, electricians, and business founders have all built successful careers without a degree.
3. Delayed Entry into the Workforce Spending four or more years in college means delaying full-time employment and income. Meanwhile, others may start apprenticeships, gain hands-on experience, or launch businesses straight out of high school.
4. Mismatch Between Degree and Job Market A college degree doesn’t guarantee a job. Some graduates find themselves underemployed or working in fields unrelated to their majors. The job market favors candidates with relevant skills and experience—sometimes more than formal education.
Questions Families Should Ask
What is the student passionate about, and does that path require a degree?
Is there a clear return on investment (ROI) for the school and major being considered?
Are there lower-cost options—like community college, state schools, or scholarships?
Could internships, certifications, or trade programs offer a faster, cheaper path?
So can you really become successful without a college degree? Look at Steve Jobs, who dropped out of Reed College and became the co-founder and former CEO of Apple (AAPL). Then there is Bill Gates, who co-ounded Microsoft (MSFT). He dropped out of Harvard. Kevin Murphy started as a front-service clerk at Publix in 1984 and became CEO in 2024. Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group, left school at 16 (SPCE).
Here’s a list of notable founders and CEOs of large publicly traded companies who either did not attend or did not complete college. Despite lacking a degree, they went on to lead or found some of the most influential companies in the world:
Tech and Internet
Name
Company
Role
Education Status
Steve Jobs
Apple
Co-founder, former CEO
Dropped out of Reed College
Bill Gates
Microsoft
Co-founder
Dropped out of Harvard
Mark Zuckerberg
Meta (Facebook)
Co-founder, CEO
Dropped out of Harvard
Michael Dell
Dell Technologies
Founder, CEO
Dropped out of University of Texas
Larry Ellison
Oracle
Co-founder, former CEO
Dropped out of University of Illinois and University of Chicago
Evan Williams
Twitter (now X Corp.)
Co-founder, former CEO
Dropped out of University of Nebraska
Daniel Ek
Spotify
Co-founder, CEO
Dropped out of KTH Royal Institute of Technology (Sweden)
Retail and Consumer
Name
Company
Role
Education Status
Richard Schulze
Best Buy
Founder
Dropped out of college
Amancio Ortega
Inditext (Zara)
Founder, former chairman
No formal higher education
Do Won Chang
Forever 21
Co-founder
No college education
Industry and Other Sectors
Name
Company
Role
Education Status
Howard Hughes
Hughes Aircraft, aviation and media mogul
Founder
Dropped out of Rice University
Travis Kalanick
Uber
Co-founder, former CEO
Dropped out of UCLA
Industry Trends
The trend of valuing skills and experience over formal education is gaining traction. Companies like IBM, Google, GM, and Apple have moved away from requiring degrees for certain positions. Initiatives like Peter Thiel’s fellowship program offer $100,000 grants to young entrepreneurs who choose to skip or leave college to pursue business ventures.
Final Thoughts
College can be a powerful investment in a student’s future—but it’s not the only one. It’s essential for students and parents to look beyond tradition and emotion, and weigh the financial and personal implications carefully. Success doesn’t always come with a diploma—it comes with purpose, effort, and choosing the path that fits best.
One thing to keep in mind. Although the above business leaders never received a college degree (excluding honorary degrees), many of them did attend college, and a few of them met their friends there who became co-founders of their company. So another consideration is trying college for a while without being concerned about finishing or getting that degree.
Disclosure: Author may own shares in the above described companies.
The following is a short list of some of the many stocks going ex-dividend during the next month, which can be helpful for traders and investors interested in the stock trading technique known as “Buying Dividends” or “Dividend Capture.” This strategy involves purchasing stocks before the ex dividend date and selling them shortly after the ex-date at a similar price, while still being eligible to receive the dividend payment.
Although this dividend capture strategy generally proves effective in bull markets and flat or choppy markets, it is advisable to exercise caution and consider avoiding this strategy during bear markets. To qualify for the dividend, it is necessary to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date and refrain from selling it until on or after the ex-date.
However, it is important to note that the actual dividend may not be paid for several weeks, as the payment date may not be until two months after the ex-dividend date.
For investors seeking a comprehensive list of stocks going ex-dividend in the near future, WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has compiled a downloadable list containing numerous dividend-paying companies. Here are a few examples showcasing the stock symbol, ex-dividend date, periodic dividend amount, and annual yield.
Company
Ex Date
Amount
Yield
Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST)
5/2/2025
1.30
0.53%
SiriusXM Holdings Inc. (SIRI)
5/9/2025
0.27
4.96%
Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)
5/15/2025
0.83
0.85%
Amgen Inc. (AMGN)
5/16/2025
2.38
3.36%
Starbucks Corporation (SBUX)
5/16/2025
0.61
2.91%
Applied Materials, Inc. (AMAT)
5/22/2025
0.46
1.22%
T-Mobile US, Inc. (TMUS)
5/30/2025
0.88
1.49%
To access the entire list of over 100 ex-dividend stocks, subscribers will receive an email in the next couple days with the full list. If you are not already a subscriber, you can sign up using the provided signup box below. Don’t miss out on this valuable information, and the best part is that it’s free!
Dividend Definitions
To better understand the dividend-related terms, let’s define them:
Declaration date: This refers to the day when a company announces its intention to distribute a dividend in the future. Ex-dividend date: On this day, if you purchase the stock, you would not be eligible to receive the upcoming dividend. It is also the first day on which a shareholder can sell their shares and still receive the dividend. Record date: This marks the day when you must be recorded on the company’s books as a shareholder to qualify for the dividend. Typically, the ex-dividend date is set two business days prior to the record date. Payment date: This is the day on which the dividend payment is actually made to the eligible shareholders. It’s important to note that the payment date can be as long as two months after the ex-date.
Before implementing the “Buying Dividends” technique, it is crucial to reconfirm the ex-dividend date with the respective company to ensure accuracy and avoid any unexpected changes.
In conclusion, being aware of the stocks going ex-dividend can be advantageous for traders and investors employing the “Buying Dividends” strategy. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com provides a convenient resource to access a comprehensive list of such stocks, allowing individuals to plan their investment decisions effectively. Remember to stay informed and consider market conditions before employing any investment strategy.
Disclosure: Author may own some of the above at the time the article was written.
The following is a short list of some of the many stocks going ex-dividend during the next month, which can be helpful for traders and investors interested in the stock trading technique known as “Buying Dividends” or “Dividend Capture.” This strategy involves purchasing stocks before the ex dividend date and selling them shortly after the ex-date at a similar price, while still being eligible to receive the dividend payment.
Although this technique generally proves effective in bull markets and flat or choppy markets, it is advisable to exercise caution and consider avoiding this strategy during bear markets. To qualify for the dividend, it is necessary to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date and refrain from selling it until on or after the ex-date.
However, it is important to note that the actual dividend may not be paid for several weeks, as the payment date can be delayed by up to two months after the ex-date.
For investors seeking a comprehensive list of stocks going ex-dividend in the near future, WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has compiled a downloadable list containing numerous dividend-paying companies. Here are a few examples showcasing the stock symbol, ex-dividend date, periodic dividend amount, and annual yield.
Ally Financial Inc. (ALLY)
8/1/2024
0.30
2.73%
Citigroup, Inc. (C)
8/5/2024
0.56
3.30%
Wells Fargo & Company (WFC)
8/9/2024
0.40
2.65%
Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)
8/15/2024
0.75
0.71%
Walmart Inc. (WMT)
8/16/2024
0.2075
1.19%
Target Corporation (TGT)
8/21/2024
1.12
3.01%
Johnson & Johnson (JNJ)
8/27/2024
1.24
3.09%
T-Mobile US, Inc. (TMUS)
8/30/2024
0.65
1.48%
To access the entire list of over 100 ex-dividend stocks, subscribers will receive an email in the next couple days with the full list. If you are not already a subscriber, you can sign up using the provided signup box below. Don’t miss out on this valuable information, and the best part is that it’s free!
Dividend Definitions
To better understand the dividend-related terms, let’s define them:
Declaration date: This refers to the day when a company announces its intention to distribute a dividend in the future. Ex-dividend date: On this day, if you purchase the stock, you would not be eligible to receive the upcoming dividend. It is also the first day on which a shareholder can sell their shares and still receive the dividend. Record date: This marks the day when you must be recorded on the company’s books as a shareholder to qualify for the dividend. Typically, the ex-dividend date is set two business days prior to the record date. Payment date: This is the day on which the dividend payment is actually made to the eligible shareholders. It’s important to note that the payment date can be as long as two months after the ex-date.
Before implementing the “Buying Dividends” technique, it is crucial to reconfirm the ex-dividend date with the respective company to ensure accuracy and avoid any unexpected changes.
In conclusion, being aware of the stocks going ex-dividend can be advantageous for traders and investors employing the “Buying Dividends” strategy. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com provides a convenient resource to access a comprehensive list of such stocks, allowing individuals to plan their investment decisions effectively. Remember to stay informed and consider market conditions before employing any investment strategy.
The following is a short list of some of the many stocks going ex-dividend during the next month, which can be helpful for traders and investors interested in the stock trading technique known as “Buying Dividends” or “Dividend Capture.” This strategy involves purchasing stocks before the ex dividend date and selling them shortly after the ex-date at a similar price, while still being eligible to receive the dividend payment.
Although this technique generally proves effective in bull markets and flat or choppy markets, it is advisable to exercise caution and consider avoiding this strategy during bear markets. To qualify for the dividend, it is necessary to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date and refrain from selling it until on or after the ex-date.
However, it is important to note that the actual dividend may not be paid for several weeks, as the payment date can be delayed by up to two months after the ex-date.
For investors seeking a comprehensive list of stocks going ex-dividend in the near future, WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has compiled a downloadable list containing numerous dividend-paying companies. Here are a few examples showcasing the stock symbol, ex-dividend date, periodic dividend amount, and annual yield.
Citigroup, Inc. (C)
5/3/2024
0.53
3.43%
Walmart Inc. (WMT)
5/9/2024
0.2075
1.38%
Target Corporation (TGT)
5/14/2024
1.10
2.68%
Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)
5/15/2024
0.75
0.75%
Johnson & Johnson (JNJ)
5/20/2024
1.24
3.38%
Discover Financial Services (DFS)
5/22/2024
0.70
2.23%
T-Mobile US, Inc. (TMUS)
5/31/2024
0.65
1.58%
To access the entire list of over 100 ex-dividend stocks, subscribers will receive an email in the next couple days with the full list. If you are not already a subscriber, you can sign up using the provided signup box below. Don’t miss out on this valuable information, and the best part is that it’s free!
Dividend Definitions
To better understand the dividend-related terms, let’s define them:
Declaration date: This refers to the day when a company announces its intention to distribute a dividend in the future. Ex-dividend date: On this day, if you purchase the stock, you would not be eligible to receive the upcoming dividend. It is also the first day on which a shareholder can sell their shares and still receive the dividend. Record date: This marks the day when you must be recorded on the company’s books as a shareholder to qualify for the dividend. Typically, the ex-dividend date is set two business days prior to the record date. Payment date: This is the day on which the dividend payment is actually made to the eligible shareholders. It’s important to note that the payment date can be as long as two months after the ex-date.
Before implementing the “Buying Dividends” technique, it is crucial to reconfirm the ex-dividend date with the respective company to ensure accuracy and avoid any unexpected changes.
In conclusion, being aware of the stocks going ex-dividend can be advantageous for traders and investors employing the “Buying Dividends” strategy. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com provides a convenient resource to access a comprehensive list of such stocks, allowing individuals to plan their investment decisions effectively. Remember to stay informed and consider market conditions before employing any investment strategy.
Disclosure: Author did not own any of the above at the time the article was written.
The following is a short list of some of the many stocks going ex-dividend during the next month, which can be helpful for traders and investors interested in the stock trading technique known as “Buying Dividends” or “Dividend Capture.” This strategy involves purchasing stocks before the ex dividend date and selling them shortly after the ex-date at a similar price, while still being eligible to receive the dividend payment.
Although this technique generally proves effective in bull markets and flat or choppy markets, it is advisable to exercise caution and consider avoiding this strategy during bear markets. To qualify for the dividend, it is necessary to buy the stock before the ex-dividend date and refrain from selling it until on or after the ex-date.
However, it is important to note that the actual dividend may not be paid for several weeks, as the payment date can be delayed by up to two months after the ex-date.
For investors seeking a comprehensive list of stocks going ex-dividend in the near future, WallStreetNewsNetwork.com has compiled a downloadable list containing numerous dividend-paying companies. Here are a few examples showcasing the stock symbol, ex-dividend date, periodic dividend amount, and annual yield.
Stock
Ex Div Date
Div Amount
Yield
Las Vegas Sands Corp. (LVS)
8/7/2023
0.20
0.34%
American Electric Power Company (AEP)
8/9/2023
0.83
3.95%
International Business Machines (IBM)
8/9/2023
1.66
4.63%
Starbucks Corporation (SBUX)
8/10/2023
0.53
2.09%
Walmart Inc. (WMT)
8/10/2023
0.57
1.43%
Eli Lilly and Company (LLY)
8/14/2023
1.13
1.00%
Consolidated Edison, Inc. (ED)
8/15/2023
0.81
3.47%
Target Corporation (TGT)
8/15/2023
1.10
3.26%
Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)
8/16/2023
0.68
0.81%
Duke Energy Corporation (DUK)
8/17/2023
1.025
4.38%
Southern Company (SO)
8/18/2023
0.70
3.87%
Discover Financial Services (DFS)
8/23/2023
0.70
2.48%
Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (HLT)
8/24/2023
0.15
0.39%
Johnson & Johnson (JNJ)
8/25/2023
1.19
2.82%
Allstate Corporation (ALL)
8/30/2023
0.89
3.15%
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (GS)
8/30/2023
2.75
3.08%
Lockheed Martin Corporation (LMT)
8/31/2023
3.00
2.66%
To access the entire list of over 100 ex-dividend stocks, subscribers will receive an email in the next few days. If you are not already a subscriber, you can sign up using the provided signup box below. Don’t miss out on this valuable information, and the best part is that it’s free!
Dividend Definitions
To better understand the dividend-related terms, let’s define them:
Declaration date: This refers to the day when a company announces its intention to distribute a dividend in the future. Ex-dividend date: On this day, if you purchase the stock, you would not be eligible to receive the upcoming dividend. It is also the first day on which a shareholder can sell their shares and still receive the dividend. Record date: This marks the day when you must be recorded on the company’s books as a shareholder to qualify for the dividend. Typically, the ex-dividend date is set two business days prior to the record date. Payment date: This is the day on which the dividend payment is actually made to the eligible shareholders. It’s important to note that the payment date can be as long as two months after the ex-date.
Before implementing the “Buying Dividends” technique, it is crucial to reconfirm the ex-dividend date with the respective company to ensure accuracy and avoid any unexpected changes.
In conclusion, being aware of the stocks going ex-dividend can be advantageous for traders and investors employing the “Buying Dividends” strategy. WallStreetNewsNetwork.com provides a convenient resource to access a comprehensive list of such stocks, allowing individuals to plan their investment decisions effectively. Remember to stay informed and consider market conditions before employing any investment strategy.
Disclosure: Author did not own any of the above at the time the article was written.
