Dividends received after year end

Hello Mr Chris,

In the following question the divindends were declared during the year but were received early after the year end so why we have to deduct it from associate value even though the dividends were only declared during the year
but not received .

Thanks,

Q

Alpha Co acquired 20% of Beta Co’s 500,000 ordinary shares for $4 per share
on 1 July 20X6.
Beta Co’s profit after tax for the year ended 31 December 20X6 and 31 December
20X7 was $100,000 and $250,000 respectively. Beta Co also declared a dividend of
$20,000 for ordinary shareholders on 15 December 20X7. The cheque for dividend
was actually received and deposited by Alpha Co on 15 January 20X8.
Assuming that Beta Co is an associate of Alpha Co, calculate the amount to be
included in the consolidated financial statements as at 31 December 20X7.
A) $456,000
B) $466,000
C) $460,000
D) $464,000

Answer is A