Common Stock

Definition

Common stock represents an ownership stake in a company. It is a type of equity security that gives the holder a claim on the company's assets and earnings, as well as voting rights in the company's decision-making processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Common stock is the most basic and widely traded type of equity security.
2. Holders of common stock have a residual claim on a company's assets and earnings, meaning they are paid after debt holders and preferred shareholders.
3. The value of common stock is determined by the market's assessment of the company's future earnings and growth potential.
4. Common stockholders have voting rights that allow them to participate in the governance of the company, such as electing the board of directors.
5. Dividends paid on common stock are not guaranteed and can be reduced or eliminated at the discretion of the company's management.

Review Questions

• Explain how common stock represents an ownership stake in a company and the rights it confers to shareholders.
  • Common stock represents an ownership interest in a company, with shareholders holding a claim on the company's assets and earnings. As owners, common stockholders have voting rights that allow them to participate in the company's decision-making processes, such as electing the board of directors. The value of common stock is determined by the market's assessment of the company's future earnings and growth potential, and common stockholders are entitled to receive dividends, though these payments are not guaranteed and can be reduced or eliminated at the discretion of the company's management.
• Describe the role of common stock in how businesses raise financial capital, as discussed in the chapter on 'How Businesses Raise Financial Capital'.
  • In the context of how businesses raise financial capital, common stock is a crucial equity security that companies can issue to raise funds. By selling shares of common stock to investors, businesses can obtain the necessary capital to finance their operations, expand their business, or invest in new projects. The sale of common stock allows companies to raise funds without incurring debt, and it provides investors with an ownership stake and a claim on the company's future earnings and assets. The ability to issue common stock is an important tool for businesses to raise the financial capital they need to grow and succeed.
• Analyze the key features of common stock and how they relate to the ways in which businesses can utilize this financial instrument to support their long-term growth and development.
  • The key features of common stock, such as its representation of an ownership stake, the associated voting rights, and the potential for dividends, make it a valuable financial instrument for businesses seeking to raise capital. By issuing common stock, companies can obtain funds to finance their operations, invest in new projects, or pursue strategic initiatives without incurring debt. The ownership structure and voting rights associated with common stock also allow businesses to engage their shareholders in the decision-making process, potentially aligning the interests of the company and its investors. Additionally, the potential for dividend payments can make common stock an attractive investment for shareholders, further enhancing a company's ability to raise capital. Ultimately, the versatility and characteristics of common stock make it a crucial tool for businesses to support their long-term growth and development.

Related terms

Equity: Equity refers to ownership interest in a company, which can be represented by shares of common stock or preferred stock.

Dividend: A dividend is a distribution of a portion of a company's earnings to its shareholders, typically paid periodically (e.g., quarterly or annually).

Voting Rights: Voting rights are the rights of shareholders to vote on important company decisions, such as the election of the board of directors.