Iran’s Equity Shares Fund Initiates Phased Dividend Payouts
The Iranian government has commenced the distribution of dividends for the national Equity Shares scheme, marking a significant shift in its payment strategy. For the first time, beneficiaries are receiving their funds in structured phases rather than a single lump-sum payment. Officials from the Supreme Council of the Stock Market have stated this new systematic approach aims to enhance transparency, improve administrative efficiency, and prevent the recurring delays that characterized previous payouts.
A New Systematic Payment Model
In previous years, dividends from the Equity Shares fund were typically deposited into beneficiaries’ accounts in one full installment. However, starting in the current Iranian year (1404), the payment method has been fundamentally restructured as per the decision of the Supreme Council of the Stock Market. Under this new policy, dividends will be disbursed in several clearly defined stages throughout the year.
Financial experts highlight that this phased model provides listed companies with a more manageable timeframe to settle their accounts and transfer funds to the main exchange organization. Consequently, shareholders can expect to receive their dividends with greater regularity and predictability.
Dividend Details for the Current Phase
According to an official announcement, the amounts disbursed in this phase are based on the financial performance of the listed companies for the previous Iranian year (1402). The approximate dividend amounts for this phase are as follows:
- For the 492,000 Tomans share package: Approximately 744,000 Tomans.
- For the 1,000,000 Tomans share package: Over 1,500,000 Tomans.
While it has been officially confirmed that the second phase of payments will be completed by the end of the current month of Shahrivar (September 22, 2024), minor delays have been attributed to the ongoing settlement processes of a few major listed companies. Key enterprises, including Persian Gulf Petrochemical Industries, Mobarakeh Steel Company, Iran Alloy Steel Company, and Telecommunications Company of Iran, are finalizing their transfers. Authorities have assured the public that this process is nearing completion and will not impact the final deadline for all payments.
Strengthening Public Trust and Household Economics
The implementation of phased payments is presented as a key governmental reform with several critical benefits:
- Reduced Delays: Eliminates long waiting periods for a single large payment.
- Enhanced Transparency: A pre-announced payment schedule allows for precise communication with shareholders.
- Bolstered Public Confidence: Regular, reliable disbursements are seen as a measure to strengthen public trust in capital market policies and the government’s economic planning.
- Household Support: In the current economic climate, phased injections of capital can help millions of Iranian families better manage their routine expenses.
The move has been largely welcomed by a majority of shareholders, who appreciate the increased predictability. Some, however, have expressed a preference for the lump-sum method, which allows for larger investments or significant expenditures.
Looking Ahead
Market analysts project that dividends from the Equity Shares fund will maintain an upward trajectory in the coming years, potentially exceeding current figures. This optimistic forecast is contingent upon the continued strong performance of major listed companies, export volumes, global commodity prices, and the overall success of the government’s economic policies.
All eligible beneficiaries are urged to verify and update their banking information, particularly their Sheba numbers, through the Sejam system to ensure seamless receipt of their dividends. The successful execution of this new phased payment system is poised to reinforce the foundational goals of the Equity Shares scheme, playing a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of millions of Iranian citizens.
