Investors Must Act Fast Ahead of BlackRock’s February ETF Distribution
BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited has announced the distribution schedule for its Australian iShares ETFs, with key dates spanning early to mid-February 2026. Investors are reminded to update details and consider the Distribution Reinvestment Plan ahead of the record date.
- Estimated distribution announcement on 4 February 2026
- Ex-date set for 5 February 2026, record date on 6 February 2026
- Unit redemption orders suspended on 4 February, reopen on 5 February
- Distribution Reinvestment Plan opt-in deadline at 5pm on 4 February
- Tax residency certification required under FATCA and CRS regulations
Distribution Dates Announced for Australian iShares ETFs
BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited (BIMAL), the responsible entity for several Australian domiciled iShares exchange traded funds (ETFs), has released the schedule for upcoming distributions in February 2026. This announcement covers four key funds, iShares Core Cash ETF (BILL), iShares Credit Income Active ETF (ICME), iShares Enhanced Cash ETF (ISEC), and iShares Yield Plus ETF (IYLD).
The timeline begins with an estimated distribution announcement on 4 February, followed by the ex-date on 5 February and the record date on 6 February. The payment date for distributions is set for 17 February 2026. Notably, unit redemption orders will be temporarily suspended on 4 February but will resume the following day. Throughout this period, secondary market trading on the ASX will continue uninterrupted.
Distribution Reinvestment Plan and Investor Reminders
Investors interested in reinvesting their distributions can participate in the Distribution Reinvestment Plan (DRP), which remains open for this cycle. To opt in, investors must do so by 5pm on 4 February 2026. The DRP allows distributions to be reinvested according to plan rules, providing a convenient way to compound investment returns without incurring brokerage fees.
BlackRock also urges investors to ensure their bank account details are up to date with the share registrar to facilitate prompt payment of distributions. Those who have not yet provided their details can do so via the Computershare Investor Centre online portal.
Compliance and Sustainability Focus
In line with regulatory requirements, BlackRock reminds investors to complete their tax residency certification under the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) and the Common Reporting Standard (CRS). Failure to comply may result in information being reported to the Australian Taxation Office and potentially shared with foreign tax authorities.
On the sustainability front, BlackRock continues to promote environmentally friendly practices by defaulting to electronic communications for investor statements, reducing paper consumption. Postal statements are available only upon request, reflecting the firm's commitment to minimizing environmental impact while maintaining high service standards.
Investors are encouraged to review the latest product disclosure statements and target market determinations available on BlackRock's website to ensure their investments align with their financial goals and risk profiles.
Bottom Line?
As distribution dates approach, investor preparedness and compliance will be key to seamless payments and reinvestment opportunities.
Questions in the middle?
- What will be the actual distribution amounts announced on 6 February?
- How might these distributions influence investor sentiment towards these ETFs?
- Will there be any changes to the DRP terms or participation rates this cycle?