Will the dividend announcement trigger any changes in the company’s dividend policy or future payout expectations?

Policy Outlook – No Immediate Change

The board’s announcement of a 27‑cent quarterly cash dividend – the 170th consecutive payout – is a continuation of WaFd’s long‑standing dividend policy. The press release contains no language about a change in payout ratio, a special dividend, or a shift in the company’s dividend strategy. In other words, the market should interpret this as a reaffirmation of the “steady‑stream” dividend approach rather than a signal of any upcoming adjustment. Given the bank’s stable earnings, modest leverage, and a 20‑year‑plus history of regular payments, investors can reasonably expect the same payout cadence and amount in the near‑term unless earnings deteriorate sharply.

Trading Implications

* Short‑term: The stock will likely trade “ex‑dividend” on August 22, 2025, with a typical price dip roughly equal to the $0.27 per share dividend (≈1‑2% of the current price, depending on the share price). Traders seeking to capture the dividend can consider buying before the ex‑date, but should be prepared for the mechanical decline on the ex‑date and possible sell‑off afterward.

* Medium‑term: The continuation of a 170‑quarter streak signals management confidence in cash flow and capital adequacy. For income‑focused investors, the dividend reinforces WaFd’s profile as a stable, yield‑oriented holding. If you are already long, maintain the position; if you’re income‑focused, the dividend supports a buy‑and‑hold approach. If you are a short‑term trader, consider a modest, risk‑adjusted long position before the ex‑date, then exit after the price adjusts post‑ex, especially if technical indicators (e.g., a bullish flag on the daily chart) suggest a short‑term upside.

Bottom Line: The dividend announcement is a reaffirmation, not a change, in policy. Expect the dividend to continue at current levels barring a major earnings shock. Traders can use the ex‑dividend date for short‑term capture, while long‑term investors may view the 170‑quarter streak as a green light for continued dividend‑yield exposure.