Many new investors look for a way to invest a small amount of cash into the stock market without paying huge commissions. To meet this increasing demand, more companies are offering dividend reinvestment plans, also known as DRIPs. DRIPs are offered by a corporation and allow investors to reinvest their cash dividends by purchasing additional shares or fractional shares of some of the most well known publicly-traded companies for as little as $10 at a time. As a result, DRIPs have become heavily promoted as viable solutions to new investors entering the stock market.
Most DRIPs allow an investor to buy shares commission free. DRIPs also provide a means to invest with smaller dollar amounts in order to build meaningful stock positions for the long-term. In a DRIP, the shares are purchased for the investor at a fixed date and time each month, at the prevailing market price, regardless of market conditions. This methodology, known as dollar cost averaging, is a proven, effective method of wealth accumulation, and ideal for new investors.
Companies offer DRIPs for several reasons. This base of individual stockholders can help stabilize a company’s share price. DRIPs also keep capital inside the company by not outright paying cash dividends but having those dividends reinvested in additional share purchases. Many companies have even made dividend reinvestment plans more convenient over the past few years with services such as online account access, direct deposit from checking and cash payout of dividends. While some DRIPs assess a nominal fee either at inception or throughout the plan, most plans can be started and maintained at no cost. But, buyer beware, a few companies have raised fees within their DRIPs to discourage small investments, so be certain to compare costs if you are choosing among several potential stocks. It is always important to obtain and review all financial material carefully before investing.
Investors should note, however, that a dividend reinvestment plan may not be appropriate for everyone. It is most appropriate for new investors just beginning a savings plan. Because shares are purchased at a fixed date and time each month in a DRIP, more sophisticated investors may find it advantageous to buy and sell shares at their discretion on any day of the week; a benefit afforded to those with accounts at a brokerage firm and not through a DRIP. Additionally, should you need to sell shares for immediate cash needs, you may not be able to do so in a timely manner inside of a dividend reinvestment plan. Many DRIPs also have maximum investment limitations. Therefore, investors with larger portfolios will be better off executing their transactions in their investment accounts despite commission costs.
Prospective DRIP investors should also be aware that it is imperative to keep good records for income tax purposes in the event you sell all or part of your shares. DRIP plans are often regarded as bookkeeping nightmares because most investors are making numerous small transactions over the course of a long period of time. Once you have accumulated a lot of 100 shares of stock inside a dividend reinvestment plan, it may be prudent to move the shares to a discount brokerage firm.
At Henssler Financial, we emphasize diversification in a portfolio. For our clients, we prefer to either use a high-quality individual stock portfolio or mutual funds. Mutual funds allow even the smallest investor to gain instant diversification in the market if chosen wisely. For a beginning investor wanting to own just a few shares of stock, DRIPs may be appropriate for them.
There are many sources available for those that seek more information on dividend reinvestment plans to determine if this investing option is for you. For more information on DRIPs and their details, visit any of the following websites:
You may also contact Henssler Financial at 770-429-9166 or experts@henssler.com.
This article is meant to provide valuable background information on particular investments, NOT a recommendation to buy. The investments referenced within this article may currently be traded by Henssler Financial. All material presented is compiled from sources believed to be reliable and current, but accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The contents are intended for general information purposes only. Information provided should not be the sole basis in making any decisions and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional, such as a tax consultant, insurance adviser or attorney. Although this material is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information with respect to the subject matter, it may not apply in all situations. Readers are urged to consult with their adviser concerning specific situations and questions. This is not to be construed as an offer to buy or sell any financial instruments. It is not our intention to state, indicate or imply in any manner that current or past results are indicative of future profitability or expectations. As with all investments, there are associated inherent risks. Please obtain and review all financial material carefully before investing. Henssler is not licensed to offer or sell insurance products, and this overview is not to be construed as an offer to purchase any insurance products.
