Vedanta shares gain 12%; board to decide on fourth interim dividend on December 16

Anil Aggarwal-led mining and natural resources conglomerate Vedanta Ltd has grabbed investor attention ahead of its board meeting scheduled for December 16, where it will consider a fourth interim dividend.

Dividend announcement sparks interest
The board meeting, which was earlier planned for October but postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, will now determine the fourth interim dividend payout for FY25. Vedanta has already declared three interim dividends this fiscal, totalling Rs 35 per share. The latest announcement made in September saw a dividend of Rs 20 per share after earlier payouts of Rs 11 and Rs 4, respectively. The record date for the fourth interim dividend has been set at December 24, 2024.

Stock Performance Overview
Vedanta stock rose 1.5 per cent to Rs 520 in early trade on Thursday, reflecting growing investor optimism ahead of the dividend announcement. The shares opened 1.2 per cent higher at Rs 520.5, continuing the strong bullish trend. The stock has delivered an impressive 101 per cent year-to-date return, doubling in value and marking its best performance since 2021, when it had gained 110 per cent.

Why it matters
Consistent dividend payouts underscore Vedanta’s commitment to rewarding its shareholders, making the stock an attractive proposition for income-focused investors. Additionally, the strong stock performance reflects the market’s confidence in the company’s operational capabilities and strategic outlook.

What’s next?
The upcoming board decision on the fourth interim dividend will be a key event for the stock, potentially strengthening its appeal among dividend-seeking investors. Moreover, the year’s record-breaking returns have made Vedanta one of the top-performing stocks in the natural resources sector, despite macroeconomic challenges.

By Priyanka Roy