Question

Corporations are controlled by the (LOl) c) common stockholders

Short answer

In summary, corporations are controlled by the common stockholders, who hold the voting rights and participate in the company's decision-making process. They elect the board of directors, who manage the company's affairs and make crucial decisions. Their control is proportional to the number of shares they own, meaning that majority shareholders have significant influence over the corporation's decisions and direction.

Step-by-step solution

Introduction to Corporations

A corporation is a legal entity separate from its owners. It can sue and be sued, enter into contracts, and own property. The ownership of a corporation is divided into shares, which represent a portion of the total ownership. Each share gives the owner, called a shareholder or stockholder, certain rights and powers within the corporation.

Different types of stock

There are different types of stock that a corporation may issue, like common stock and preferred stock. Preferred stock usually gives holders some priority in receiving dividends and claims to the company's assets in the event of liquidation, but they typically have limited or no voting rights. Common stock, on the other hand, gives the holder the right to vote on company matters and elect the board of directors.

Common stockholders

As mentioned earlier, common stockholders hold common stock which gives them voting rights and allows them to participate in the company’s decision-making. They elect the board of directors, who are responsible for managing the company's affairs and making crucial decisions, such as issuing dividends, approving mergers and acquisitions, and appointing executives.

Control of corporations

Since common stockholders have the right to vote on important matters and elect the board of directors, they effectively control the corporation. The more shares a common stockholder owns, the more voting power they have. Therefore, a majority shareholder, someone who owns more than 50% of the outstanding common stock, can essentially control the company's decisions and direction.

Summary

In conclusion, common stockholders control the corporations by having the power to vote on company matters, elect the board of directors, and thereby guide the decisions and direction of the company. The control is proportional to the number of shares owned, and thus, majority shareholders have significant influence over the corporation.

Key concepts

Common Stockholders

Common stockholders are the backbone of corporate ownership. They own shares in the company, which represent their stake in the business. When you own common stock, you have a claim on a portion of the corporation’s assets and earnings.
Common stock is different from preferred stock. While both are forms of equity, common stockholders have the advantage of voting rights, which gives them a say in the company’s affairs.

• Common stock represents ownership in a corporation.
• Shareholders can earn profits in the form of dividends, although these are not guaranteed.
• In case of company liquidation, common shareholders are the last to receive residuals after debts and preferred stockholders are paid.

Voting Rights

One of the key benefits of holding common stock is the voting rights it grants. These rights allow shareholders to have a say in substantial business decisions.
Company matters that require shareholder input are typically discussed and voted on during annual or special meetings.

• Common stockholders usually have one vote per share owned.
• Voting often involves decision-making on major issues, such as mergers and acquisitions.
• These rights ensure that shareholders can influence strategies that affect their investments.

Voting rights are fundamental in promoting transparency and accountability in corporate governance.

Board of Directors

The board of directors acts as a governing body that oversees a company's management. Elected by the common stockholders, the board has significant influence over the company’s strategic direction.
This group sets broad goals, supports the executive management team, and ensures that the corporation operates effectively.

• The board is responsible for hiring and firing top executives, like the CEO.
• They approve major policy changes and significant corporate actions.
• The board’s oversight is crucial for aligning company strategies with shareholder interests.

Choosing a competent board is vital as they play a pivotal role in a company’s success and governance.

Shareholder Control

Shareholder control is exerted through the ownership and voting rights of common stockholders. The extent of control a shareholder has is proportional to the number of shares they own.
Majority shareholders, those who own more than 50% of the shares, have substantial influence over corporate decisions and actions.

• Shareholder control is executed through voting during meetings and via decisions made by elected board members.
• This control mechanism is an essential aspect of corporate democracy.
• By influencing corporate policy and direction, shareholders protect their financial interests.

Thus, effective shareholder control can lead to more effective and responsible management of the corporation.