Ex-Dividend Reminder: Morningstar, Cousins Properties and Cisco Systems

Morningstar Inc (MORN), Cousins Properties Inc (CUZ), and Cisco Systems Inc (CSCO) are scheduled to trade ex-dividend on October 3, 2025, with quarterly payouts of $0.455, $0.32, and $0.41 respectively. This will result in expected stock price adjustments of approximately 0.20% for MORN, 1.11% for CUZ, and 0.60% for CSCO, corresponding to annualized yields of 0.78%, 4.42%, and 2.40%. Notably, Cisco Systems is highlighted as a 'future dividend aristocrat contender' due to its consistent dividend increases spanning over 14 years.

Analysis

On October 3, 2025, Morningstar (MORN), Cousins Properties (CUZ), and Cisco Systems (CSCO) will trade ex-dividend, triggering an expected mechanical price decline in their shares corresponding to their respective payouts. Cousins Properties offers the most significant yield of the group, with its $0.32 quarterly dividend equating to an estimated 4.42% on an annualized basis, which is reflected in the day's 2.4% share price appreciation. In contrast, Morningstar's dividend represents a modest 0.78% annualized yield, and its shares were down approximately 0.9%. Cisco Systems presents a balanced profile with a 2.40% annualized yield and a notable qualitative strength: its 14-plus years of consecutive dividend increases position it as a 'future dividend aristocrat contender.' This track record suggests a higher degree of predictability and commitment to capital returns, a key differentiator for dividend growth investors.

Key Decisions for Investors

• Investors seeking to capture the upcoming dividend payments must establish a position in MORN, CUZ, or CSCO before the October 3, 2025 ex-dividend date.
• For income-focused portfolios, Cousins Properties' 4.42% annualized yield is the most attractive among the three, though investors should anticipate a corresponding 1.11% price drop on the ex-dividend date.
• Investors prioritizing dividend growth and long-term reliability should weigh Cisco's status as a 'future dividend aristocrat contender' heavily, as its 14-year history of increases indicates a strong and stable capital return policy.