US stock earnings reports, dividend dates, and related terminology explained

I've been investing in US stocks for almost two years now, and recently I've had some time to research some basic questions. I've written a few summary articles for my own reference and to share with everyone.

Dividends from US stocks actually make up a large portion of my income. I received quite a bit of dividends before without really understanding the mechanism. Now I've done some research and am making some notes.

First, there are four nouns.

Declaration Date: The date on which dividends are announced.

Ex-Dividend Date: Ex-dividend date, explained later.

Record Date: The record date for shareholding (usually two trading days after the ex-dividend date). On this day, a list of shareholders is announced, and those on this list are entitled to receive dividends.

Payment Date: The date on which interest is paid.

The Ex-Dividend Date is a bit difficult to understand, so let me explain briefly. It's actually quite simple: you must hold the stock before the ex-dividend date to receive the dividend. Selling the stock on or after the ex-dividend date does not affect the dividend payout. Additionally, on the ex-dividend date, the stock price will be adjusted at the opening (the dividend has been "reduced" from the price), often presenting a good buying opportunity.

So the question is, how do we find out and search for this information? Go here:

http://www.nasdaq.com/symbol/aapl/dividend-history

If you don't understand English, use Google Translate (can't access a VPN? Try Youdao Dictionary).

There is also a dividend distribution calendar:

http://www.nasdaq.com/dividend-stocks/dividend-calendar.aspx

We will update you with any new discoveries as soon as possible, and you are welcome to ask questions.