Market Brief: Key Ex-Dividend Deadlines for February 18 The Indian equity market enters a critical window today as eight major companies prepare to trade ex-dividend on **February 18, 2026**. Investors looking to qualify for these payouts must finalize their positions before the market close today. The list is headlined by high-performing Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and established private firms across the defense, energy, and pharmaceutical sectors. Defense and Industrial Leaders **Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL)** leads the group with a substantial interim dividend of **₹35.00** per share. This follows a strong third-quarter performance where the company reported a **30%** year-on-year surge in net profit, reaching **₹1,851.72 crore**. The stock has maintained positive momentum, recently trading near **₹4,178**. **Bharat Forge** has declared an interim dividend of **₹2.00** per share. The company remains a focal point for investors tracking the industrial and automotive manufacturing rebound. Energy and Mining Giants **Coal India** is distributing its third interim dividend for the fiscal year at **₹5.50** per share. Despite a **16%** dip in quarterly profit due to one-time employee cost provisions, the company remains a top pick for passive income seekers with a significant dividend yield. **ONGC** has announced its highest-ever cumulative interim payout. The current second interim dividend is set at **₹6.25** per share, bringing its total yearly distribution to **₹12.25**. This comes on the back of a **23%** jump in consolidated net profit to **₹11,946 crore**. **Oil India** is offering a second interim dividend of **₹7.00** per share. The company recently approved a strategic divestment of its Russian assets to optimize capital, shifting focus toward more productive core holdings. Specialized Sectors and Pharma **MSTC** has declared an interim payout of **₹7.60** per share. The company continues to benefit from its dominant position in e-commerce and trading services for the metal and mining industries. **Natco Pharma** is rewarding shareholders with an interim dividend of **₹1.50** per share. The pharmaceutical firm continues to maintain a steady distribution policy amidst a volatile global healthcare market. **CMS Info Systems**, a leader in cash management, has set its interim dividend at **₹2.75** per share. The company is currently trading with a dividend yield of approximately **1.98%**. Investor Checklist To be eligible for these payments, shares must be held in a demat account by the end of today's session. On the ex-dividend date of **February 18**, the stock prices typically adjust downward to reflect the payout amount. Payments are generally credited to linked bank accounts within **30 days** of the record date.