In this paper we try to better understand the adverse consequences of mandatory dividend rules. We identify two main reasons why firms may pay only the mandatory minimum dividend: financial constraints and private benefits. We also argue that the consequences of these rules for firms should...

On their profits, companies must decide whether to distribute to its shareholders or invest in profitable projects that enhance future results. Many researches tried to discover the factors that influenced companies to distribute part of their profits based on theirs total dividend payout....

We exploit a feature in Brazilian regulation that requires firms to pay a minimal dividend (depending on the firm's bylaws and yearly income) to study the factors influencing firms to pay above minimum rates. Due to this fact we consider their desire to pay occurs only when they pay an amount...

In this paper we try to understand the adverse consequences of mandatory dividend rules. We identify two main reasons why firms pay only the mandatory dividend: financial constraints and private benefits. Using a sample of Brazilian companies, we found evidences that firms that pay only the...