Equity shares are often called ordinary shares, whereas preference shares receive more advantageous treatment when it comes to receiving dividends. Equity shareholders have voting rights on company matters, while preference shareholders can vote on issues that specifically impact them. A company has the option to issue two types of shares: equity shares and preference share (equity shares are also known as ordinary shares and preference shares are commonly referred to as preferred stock).
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What do you mean by Equity Shares?
Equity shares, often called ordinary shares, grant individuals a stake or functional ownership in a company. These shareholders assume the highest level of risk, as they receive dividends only after the company has fulfilled its obligations to preferred shareholders.
The funds generated through the issuance of these shares are referred to as “ownership capital,” and consequently, the shares represent a person’s ownership in the company. They serve as the fundamental building blocks in the establishment of the company.
Unlike preferred shareholders who receive a fixed dividend, equity shareholders are entitled to dividends based on the company’s earnings. Additionally, equity shareholders possess the right to participate in the management of the company, including voting on matters concerning its governance. This right is not available to preferred shareholders.
What are the benefits of Equity Shares?
- Equity shareholders are regarded as the cornerstone of a company since they contribute capital and act as investors.
- Those seeking higher returns and willing to embrace risk have the opportunity to invest in equity shares.
- Equity shareholders possess greater control over the company’s decisions compared to preference shareholders, granting them significant influence over the company’s actions.
- By providing funding through equity shares, companies can raise their creditworthiness and instill confidence in loan providers, thus enhancing their overall financial standing.
What are the types of Equity Share?
There are various types of equity shares which are listed below:
- Right Share refers to shares that a company issues exclusively to its existing shareholders, thereby preserving the ownership rights of the original investors.
- Bonus Share is a type of dividend where a company distributes additional shares of stock to its shareholders.
- Sweat Equity Share is a special type of share allocated to exceptional employees or executives of a company as recognition for their valuable contribution in terms of intellectual property rights.
What are preference shares or preferred stocks?
Preference shares, also known as preferred shares, are a specific type of stock that is issued to shareholders with certain advantages. These shareholders receive priority when it comes to receiving dividends. Additionally, in the event of the company going bankrupt, preferred shareholders have the right to claim the remaining assets before common stockholders.
One of the reasons why investors find preferred shares appealing is that they offer fixed-income security. This means that owners of preferred stock are entitled to receive regular dividend payments at predetermined dates, similar to the interest payments on bonds.
Unlike bonds, however, preferred shares can be easily traded on a stock exchange. Moreover, they enjoy favorable tax treatment as certain dividends may be taxed at a lower rate compared to bond interest.
Advantages and disadvantages of preferred stocks
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Preference share does not have a high potential to appreciate as it is less volatile to changes in the stock market. | Preference stockholders does not have any voting rights. |
| Preference shares are easily converted into common stocks. | Preference shares appreciation is very low. |
| Preference stockholders do not have any voting rights. | Shareholders have the right to claim assets but only when all the bondholders have been paid. |
Why Should You Invest in Equity Shares?
Investing in the best equity shares provides numerous benefits. The equity share market is a crucial part of the capital market and offers substantial income opportunities for investors. By investing in equity shares, individuals can not only benefit from the appreciation of their investment but also earn high dividends.
One of the significant advantages of investing in profitable equity shares is the improvement in an individual’s standard of living. These investments offer attractive returns that outpace the erosion of purchasing power caused by inflation. Consequently, the value of investments tends to increase over time, leading to wealth creation.
While risk-averse investors often prefer safer debt instruments, it’s worth noting that stock market fluctuations and bond market performance are inversely related in terms of aggregate demand.
Therefore, during periods when the bond market is underperforming, cautious investors can capitalize on the opportunities presented by investing in the best equity shares within the stock market.
Why Should You Invest in preferential Shares?
When a company makes a profit preference share holders get preference over normal share holders when it comes to distributing profits.
Also if you find a stock of a company that is taking huge risks but can deliver huge profits also then a preferential share holder’s capital is relatively safe as if and when the company fails, preference share holder’s will be the first to get the settlement.
We don’t advice to take large position in such stocks. Always make sure to take small position in such stock as much as your risk appetite allows you.
Who typically buys preferred shares?
Usually HNIs and institutions are the ones who buy preferential shares. When large institutions and HNIs buy preferred shares they get some tax advantages which is added benefit for them.
Also companies who want to raise funds often find large institutions easily for bulk purchases which is a win win situation for both as institutions buy in bulk and they are looking for safer investments and companies looking to raise capital easily get investments from such large institutions and HNIs.
Hi there, my name is Shivani and I’m the founder of Fuelcoin and co-founder of Thefinanceopedia. I created this blog to share my knowledge and experience in cryptocurrency, banking, personal finance, and the stock market, and to help others build wealth.
