Welcome to our September round‑up. In the past month we covered two very different topics: the latest findings on vaping and a big dividend move by Oracle Financial Services Software. Both stories matter – one for your well‑being, the other for your investment decisions.
New research confirms that vaping is less harmful than traditional cigarettes, but it’s far from safe. The biggest concerns are nicotine addiction, lung injury (known as EVALI), and exposure to chemicals that can trigger cancer. Even occasional use can damage lung function, and the risk climbs sharply when people use both cigarettes and e‑cigarettes together.
One study tracked dual users and found their respiratory symptoms were worse than those who smoked or vaped alone. The same group also faced a higher chance of developing lung cancer. Health experts say the safest route is to quit nicotine altogether, and they recommend FDA‑approved quit‑smoking programs instead of switching to a vape.
Because vaping products keep evolving, long‑term health effects are still a mystery. If you’re thinking about swapping cigarettes for a vape, weigh the short‑term relief against the unknown risks. Talk to a doctor, explore nicotine‑replacement therapy, or join a support group for a more reliable path to quitting.
On the finance side, Oracle Financial Services Software announced a dividend increase to ₹265 per share for FY2024‑25. The payout jumps from ₹240, pushing the dividend yield to about 2.9%. Both the ex‑dividend and record dates are set for May 8, 2025, so investors need to own the stock before that day to claim the payout.
The company’s payout ratio sits at a hefty 95.7%, while the cash payout ratio tops 114%. In plain terms, Oracle is returning most of its earnings to shareholders, which signals confidence but also raises questions about cash flow sustainability. Analysts suggest keeping an eye on the firm’s cash reserves and future earnings reports.
If you already hold Oracle shares, the higher dividend could boost your short‑term returns. If you’re considering buying, think about the high payout ratio and whether the company can keep supporting that level of cash return. Diversifying your portfolio and monitoring Oracle’s upcoming financial statements will help you make a balanced decision.
Both stories underline a simple truth: staying informed lets you protect your health and grow your wealth. Whether you’re weighing the risks of a vape or deciding on a dividend investment, the right data makes the choice clearer. Keep checking our archive for updates, and feel free to reach out if you need deeper analysis on any of these topics.