What is a key advantage of non-mandatory dividends for companies?

The key advantage of non-mandatory dividends for companies is that they allow control over cash flow. This means that a company has the flexibility to determine how much money it chooses to return to shareholders in the form of dividends. By not being obligated to pay dividends regularly, companies can retain more of their earnings for reinvestment, operational needs, or other corporate purposes. This flexibility becomes particularly valuable in times of financial uncertainty or when the company wishes to invest in growth opportunities without the pressure of making mandatory distributions.

In contrast, mandatory dividends would require companies to make fixed payments to shareholders, potentially restricting their financial flexibility. This distinction emphasizes why having the option of non-mandatory dividends can be beneficial for companies looking to manage their cash flow effectively.