This is a very smart question — and many investors get this wrong.
The truth is:
👉 There are 3 good times to buy shares
Not just before dividend.
Let me explain clearly.
1. Buying Before Dividend (Dividend Capture Strategy)
This means buying before qualification date so you can receive dividend.
When to Buy
✔ Before qualification date
✔ Before closure of register
✔ Before ex-dividend date
Advantage
You receive dividend
Disadvantage
Price usually drops after dividend
Sometimes the drop is more than the dividend
Example:
Share price = ₦50
Dividend = ₦2
After dividend, price may drop to ₦47
You gain ₦2 dividend but lose ₦3 in price
This is why buying only for dividend is risky
2. Buying After Dividend (Often Better for Long-Term)
This is when:
✔ Dividend has been paid
✔ Price drops
✔ Stock becomes cheaper
This is often the best time for long-term investors.
Why?
Because:
You buy cheaper
You hold till next dividend
You gain both capital gain + dividend
This is how many smart investors operate.
3. Buying When Stock is Undervalued (Best Strategy)
This is the most powerful strategy.
Buy when: ✔ Market is down
✔ Stock is red
✔ Good company
✔ Long-term growth
This is what professional investors do.
Which One Should You Choose?
Since you’re building wealth gradually, the best strategy for you is:
✔ Buy after dividend drop ✔ Buy during market red ✔ Hold long term ✔ Collect dividend yearly
My Personal Ranking (Best to Least)
⭐ Buy after dividend drop (Best)
⭐ Buy when market is red
⭐ Buy before dividend (only sometimes)
Simple Rule You Can Always Use
👉 Don’t chase dividend
👉 Chase good price
Because: Good price = more profit later
Example Strategy (Simple)
Step 1: Wait for dividend payment
Step 2: Price drops
Step 3: Buy gradually
Step 4: Hold till next dividend
One More Important Tip
Some stocks don’t drop after dividend
Those are very strong companies
When you see this: 👉 It is usually a very good stock