<|im_start|>user
What are dividends?<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant
A dividend is paid as a percentage on the price of an individual stock.  It can be paid out quarterly, monthly, or yearly.  It's a payment or distribution of earning from a company paid to shareholders and it is approved by the company's board of directors.  It can be paid out as a cash payment or in company stock.<|im_end|>
