Dividend stocks: LIC, Hero MotoCorp to Lupin — these shares to trade ex-date soon

Several Notable Dividend Stocks Set to Trade Ex-Date: Key Opportunities for Investors

A wave of dividend announcements has caught the attention of market participants as major companies like Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), Hero MotoCorp, and Lupin are gearing up to trade ex-dividend in the coming days. Investors keen on steady income through dividend-paying stocks are closely watching the upcoming ex-dates, which mark the cutoff for receiving announced dividends.

In addition to LIC, Hero MotoCorp, and Lupin, other dividend-yielding stocks such as NHPC, Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL), and Tata Investment Corporation have also declared dividend payouts.

What is an Ex-Dividend Date and Why It Matters

The ex-dividend date is crucial for investors aiming to receive a company’s dividend. If an investor buys a stock on or after the ex-dividend date, they are not eligible for the upcoming dividend payout. To be entitled to the dividend, shares must be purchased before the ex-dividend date.

"Dividends provide a reliable income stream and also reflect a company’s confidence in its future earnings," said Ankit Jain, equity analyst at GreenTree Capital. "Monitoring ex-dividend dates helps investors align entry strategies, especially for those pursuing yield-based investments."

Key Dividend Stocks Trading Ex-Date Soon

Here are some of the notable dividend-paying stocks and their respective details:

1. Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)

• Dividend: ₹6 per share (Final)

• Face Value: ₹10

• Ex-Date: July 24, 2025

• Dividend Yield: ~0.70% (based on current market price)

LIC, the largest life insurer in India, declared a final dividend as part of its fiscal 2024-25 results. The dividend declaration comes amid a steady performance in premium collection and asset growth. The stock has seen moderate gains recently, as the insurer continues its digital transformation and product diversification strategies.

2. Hero MotoCorp

• Dividend: ₹70 per share (Final)

• Face Value: ₹2

• Ex-Date: July 25, 2025

• Dividend Yield: ~3.2%

India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer continues its legacy of consistent dividend payouts. With robust quarterly earnings and strong export potential, Hero MotoCorp maintains its commitment to rewarding shareholders. The company has also seen a recent uptick in demand from rural markets.

3. Lupin

• Dividend: ₹6 per share (Final)

• Face Value: ₹2

• Ex-Date: July 26, 2025

• Dividend Yield: ~0.45%

The pharmaceutical giant has announced a final dividend following its Q1 FY26 results, which showed improvement in US generics and strong performance in the Indian formulations segment. Analysts believe that Lupin is on track to strengthen its presence in the specialty and chronic care segments.

4. NHPC

• Dividend: ₹0.50 per share (Final)

• Face Value: ₹10

• Ex-Date: July 25, 2025

A consistent performer in the public sector hydropower space, NHPC continues to reward shareholders despite a challenging regulatory environment. The stock appeals to long-term investors due to its steady cash flows and low debt profile.

5. MRPL (Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd.)

• Dividend: ₹1 per share (Final)

• Face Value: ₹10

• Ex-Date: July 26, 2025

With improving refining margins and increased throughput, MRPL has returned to profitability and is sharing the gains with shareholders. The company's focus on reducing debt and improving operational efficiency adds to its appeal.

6. Tata Investment Corporation

• Dividend: ₹60 per share (Final)

• Face Value: ₹10

• Ex-Date: July 25, 2025

As an investment arm of the Tata Group, this stock offers exposure to a basket of Tata companies. Its high dividend payout is in line with its investment income profile and long-term capital appreciation potential.

Market Context: Dividend Themes Gaining Momentum

India’s equity market has seen a renewed interest in dividend-yield stocks in recent months, particularly among conservative investors and high-net-worth individuals (HNIs). The Nifty Dividend Opportunities 50 index has outperformed broader benchmarks YTD, reflecting growing demand for yield plays amid market volatility.

"Dividends are especially attractive during times of market uncertainty. While growth stocks have faced valuation headwinds, dividend payers are increasingly viewed as a buffer against downside risk," said Sonal Arora, portfolio strategist at Axis Securities.

Analyst Views: Income + Stability

Most analysts continue to favor dividend-paying companies with strong fundamentals, stable cash flows, and prudent capital allocation strategies. Companies like LIC and Hero MotoCorp fall squarely in this category.

According to Motilal Oswal Research, “Stocks with strong dividend history often signal financial discipline. For investors seeking stable returns with capital protection, this upcoming dividend season offers tactical opportunities.”

Investor Outlook: Dividend Strategy Remains Relevant

With these companies set to go ex-dividend in the coming days, investors planning to benefit from the payouts must act swiftly. While the immediate appeal lies in the dividend income, the long-term outlook depends on the company’s earnings trajectory and sectoral trends.

For retail investors, dividend investing can form an integral part of a diversified portfolio. Combining capital appreciation with regular income, especially from companies with a consistent dividend track record, ensures stability in uncertain times.

"Dividend investing is not just about chasing payouts. It’s about identifying businesses that have the financial bandwidth to share profits consistently without compromising on growth," said Prakash Desai, independent financial advisor.

With LIC, Hero MotoCorp, Lupin, and several others approaching their ex-dividend dates, market participants are eyeing short-term yields and long-term value. As the dividend season progresses, staying informed and aligning investments with ex-dates could enhance portfolio income while adding quality names to one’s holdings.