A stock represents an ownership or equity stake in a corporation. If you are a stockholder, you own a proportionate share in the corporation's assets and you may be paid a share of the company's earnings in the form of dividends.
Common shares typically provide their owners certain benefits. They include rights to certain information, voting privileges that can be exercised at the General Assembly of Shareholders and financial rights, such as dividend payments. Preferred shares differ according various company’s articles and national regulationsGenerally their holders do not have rights to vote, but they are given preferential dividends.
