STNE · StoneCo Ltd.

StoneCo's Board of Directors has authorized a significant one-time cash distribution to shareholders, declaring an extraordinary dividend of $2.53 per share for both Class A and Class B shareholders. This distribution, totaling approximately R$3.08 billion based on the March 31 share count, represents a substantial return of capital to investors. The dividend payment on May 4, 2026, follows the record date of April 24, 2026. The company explicitly states this dividend is directly linked to the proceeds from the previously disclosed sale of Linx, as reported in the February 27, 2026 Form 6-K. Management emphasizes this is a singular event that should not be interpreted as establishing any ongoing dividend policy or commitment, with future dividend decisions remaining at the Board's sole discretion. Concurrently, the Board approved an expansion of the Long Term Incentive Plan pool by approximately 3.8 million shares, which will be settled according to existing vesting schedules, with final details to be disclosed via an S-8 filing after dividend settlement. Notably, this capital distribution decision will not be presented for shareholder vote at the upcoming Annual General Meeting on April 23, 2026, as it falls under the Board's authority. For investors, this represents a substantial cash return from the Linx divestiture while maintaining flexibility for future capital allocation decisions.