Dividend Update for Booking Holdings: Key Dates and Implications Before Ex-Dividend on Sep 5, 2025

Booking Holdings (BKNG) has announced a cash dividend of $9.60 per share, set to be distributed on Sep 30, 2025. The ex-dividend date is scheduled for Sep 5, 2025, meaning investors must hold shares before this date to qualify for the payout. The dividend was declared on Jul 25, 2025, and follows the company’s last dividend of $9.60 per share, which was also a cash distribution on Jun 30, 2025. This upcoming payout is slightly higher than the average of the last 10 dividend amounts, which stood at $9.03 per share, indicating a modest increase in the company’s dividend per share. Investors should note that the ex-dividend date marks the final opportunity to purchase shares and still receive this dividend.

Recent market activity around BKNG has shown mixed signals. Over the past week, Booking Holdings’ stock has seen increased institutional interest, with Canada’s pension fund raising its stake by 14.6% in the first quarter, acquiring nearly 30,000 additional shares. Meanwhile, Ardmore Road Asset Management significantly boosted its holdings by 200% during the same period. These developments suggest growing confidence among institutional investors in the company’s long-term prospects.

Since the last update, Booking Holdings has faced a challenging market environment. Analysts have noted a 3% decline in adjusted fixed operating expenses, despite a 2% rise in overall operating costs. While the company remains the world’s largest online travel agency by sales, with a dominant presence in hotel, airline, and car rental bookings, recent financial indicators highlight a cautious outlook. The stock has experienced a minor price drop of -0.94% as of late, trading at $5,599.05. Technical indicators suggest the stock may be approaching overbought territory, and two analysts have maintained a positive outlook, setting a consensus price target of $6,500.00.

Unusual options activity has also captured attention, with a notable bearish move from financial giants reflected in the options market. Over the last 30 days, 25 unusual trades were recorded, with 40% showing bearish tendencies. One of the most significant trades was a call sweep on Sep 5, 2025, with a strike price of $5,600.00. This suggests that market participants are positioning for potential volatility ahead of key events, including the ex-dividend date and the company’s upcoming earnings release in mid-August.

In summary, Booking Holdings remains a key player in the travel booking sector, supported by strong institutional backing and a consistent dividend history. However, the mixed signals from the options market and recent stock price fluctuations highlight the need for investors to stay informed about both the company’s fundamentals and broader market dynamics. Investors should be aware that Sep 5, 2025, is the ex-dividend date, and any purchase of shares on or after this date will not be eligible for the dividend payment.