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Unfranked Dividend and 30% US Withholding Tax Pose Challenges for GQG Investors

Financial Services By Claire Turing 3 min read

GQG Partners Inc. has announced a quarterly dividend of USD 0.0365 per CDI, payable on 26 March 2026, with options for Australian dollar payments based on current exchange rates.

  • Quarterly dividend of USD 0.0365 per CDI declared
  • Dividend payable on 26 March 2026 with ex-date 18 February
  • Australian dollar equivalent approximately AUD 0.051 per CDI
  • Dividend fully unfranked and subject to US withholding tax
  • Tax treaty benefits available for Australian investors submitting required forms

GQG Partners Announces Quarterly Dividend

GQG Partners Inc., a notable player in the asset management sector, has declared its ordinary quarterly dividend for the period ending 31 December 2025. The dividend is set at USD 0.0365 per CHESS Depositary Interest (CDI), reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to returning value to its investors.

The dividend will be paid on 26 March 2026, with the ex-dividend date scheduled for 18 February 2026 and the record date on 19 February 2026. This timeline provides investors with clarity on eligibility and payment expectations.

Currency and Tax Considerations

Declared in US dollars, the dividend offers Australian CDI holders the option to receive payments in Australian currency. Based on the exchange rate of USD 0.7152 per AUD 1.00 as of 13 February 2026, the dividend translates to approximately AUD 0.051035 per CDI. This currency arrangement accommodates investor preferences and reflects the 1, 1 ratio between CDIs and underlying securities.

Importantly, the dividend is fully unfranked, meaning it carries no Australian franking credits. Additionally, a default US withholding tax rate of 30% applies to dividends paid to Australian residents. However, investors can reduce this withholding tax by submitting the appropriate tax forms, such as W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E, to the company’s Australian share registry by the record date. This provision leverages the existing tax treaty between the US and Australia, potentially enhancing after-tax returns for compliant investors.

Implications for Investors

For investors tracking income streams from international holdings, GQG’s dividend announcement provides a predictable quarterly income component. The currency conversion mechanism and tax treaty benefits add layers of complexity but also opportunity for optimising returns. Investors should consider submitting the necessary documentation promptly to benefit from reduced withholding tax rates.

While the dividend amount aligns with previous distributions, the announcement does not provide guidance on future dividend policy or potential changes. Market participants will be watching closely for any signals in upcoming earnings reports or strategic updates that might influence dividend sustainability or growth.

Bottom Line?

GQG’s steady dividend underscores its income appeal, but investors must navigate currency and tax nuances to maximise returns.

Questions in the middle?

  • Will GQG Partners maintain or increase dividend payouts in upcoming quarters?
  • How might currency fluctuations impact the Australian dollar equivalent before payment date?
  • What proportion of Australian investors will submit tax forms to reduce US withholding tax?