Who declares the actual ex-dividend date for NYSE-listed stocks?

The actual ex-dividend date for NYSE-listed stocks is declared by the NYSE itself. This date is crucial as it determines which shareholders are entitled to receive the next dividend payment. To receive the dividend, an investor must own the stock before the ex-dividend date, meaning they must purchase the shares at least one trading day before this date, as the stock price adjusts down to reflect the dividend payout once the ex-dividend date arrives.

Understanding that the NYSE plays this role is important because it is the organization that oversees the listing and trading of stocks on its exchange. This authority ensures consistent application of rules related to dividends, ensuring fairness and clarity for all investors. Other entities, such as the CBOE, FINRA, and those trading on the OTC market, do not have the same regulatory responsibilities concerning ex-dividend dates for NYSE-listed securities.