Does following the residual theory of dividends lead to a stable dividend?

The residual theory of dividends suggests that dividends should be paid from the remaining earnings after all profitable investment opportunities have been funded. This approach often results in fluctuating dividends, as the amount available for distribution can vary significantly based on investment needs and profitability. Consequently, companies following this theory may not provide a stable dividend policy, leading to inconsistencies that can affect investor expectations and stock prices. Stability in dividends typically requires a different approach, such as a target payout ratio or a stable dividend policy.