Argo just locked in its key dates for 2026. Here's what investors need to know

Shares in Argo Investments Ltd (ASX: ARG) are little changed on Monday after the company released a brief update to the ASX.

At the time of writing, the listed investment company (LIC)'s shares are up 0.32% to $9.15.

By comparison, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is slightly higher by 0.1%.

While today's announcement is mostly administrative, it provides useful visibility for income-focused investors.

Let's take a look at what's ahead for the start of the year.

Key dates now locked in

According to the release, Argo confirmed the key dates tied to its half-year results and interim dividend for early 2026.

The company will release its half-year results for the period ending December 31, 2025, on Monday, February 9, 2026. That announcement will also include confirmation of the interim dividend, subject to board approval.

For shareholders, the important dividend dates are:

• Ex-dividend date: Friday, 13 February 2026

• Record date: Monday, 16 February 2026

• Last day to elect the DRP or DSSP: Tuesday, 17 February 2026

• Dividend payment date: Friday, 20 March 2026

Why this matters for income investors

Argo is widely held by investors seeking steady, tax-effective income rather than rapid capital growth. As a long-established LIC, its appeal lies in diversification, low turnover, and consistent fully-franked dividends over time.

While today's announcement does not reveal how large the interim dividend will be, it does give shareholders a clear roadmap for early 2026. That can be very useful for retirees and self-managed super fund investors who rely on predictable income streams.

Argo's most recent final dividend for 2025 was 20 cents per share, fully franked. Over the longer term, the company has built a strong reputation for maintaining dividends through market cycles, supported by a conservative investment approach.

A steady performer in a volatile market

The relatively muted share price reaction reflects the administrative nature of the update. There was no change to earnings guidance or portfolio positioning, and nothing unexpected for investors already familiar with Argo's dividend pattern.

That said, the shares continue to trade at a modest premium to net tangible assets, which is common for well-regarded LICs with long dividend track records.

Foolish Takeaway

Today's update is unlikely to shift Argo's share price in the short term, but it reinforces the stock's position as a dependable income option.

With key dividend dates now confirmed for early 2026, investors have greater clarity around timing, which matters for anyone planning regular income.

That helps explain why Argo continues to attract income-focused investors, even though the share price has moved little over the past year.

The post Argo just locked in its key dates for 2026. Here's what investors need to know appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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