Investors: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to individuals or entities that allocate capital with the expectation of a future financial return, often used in a general sense.

• Startups often seek investors to fund their growth
• Many investors are interested in green energy projects

Specifically refers to an individual or institution that owns shares in a corporation, emphasizing their ownership and rights within the company.

• Shareholders will vote on the proposed merger at the annual meeting
• The company declared a dividend to its shareholders

Similar to 'shareholder,' but more commonly used in American English; it denotes someone who owns stock in a corporation.

• The stockholders were pleased with the quarterly earnings report
• As a stockholder, she attended the general meeting

Describes a person or organization that manages large-scale financial operations and investments, often associated with high levels of expertise in finance.

• The project was backed by a prominent financier
• Financiers play a crucial role in mergers and acquisitions

This word is used to generally describe people or entities that put money into financial ventures, such as stocks, bonds, or any other type of investment.

• Many investors are optimistic about the stock market in 2023.
• The company attracted several investors to fund its new project.

Specifically refers to individuals or entities who invest their money in properties like houses, apartments, or commercial real estate.

• As a property investor, she owns multiple rental properties in the city.
• Property investors are always on the lookout for high-yield real estate opportunities.

This term has a somewhat negative connotation and refers to people who buy properties with the intention of quickly reselling them for a profit, rather than holding onto them for long-term gains.

• The neighborhood saw a spike in housing prices due to real estate speculators.
• Real estate speculators sometimes contribute to market bubbles by driving up property prices.

People or entities that provide capital with the expectation of financial return or profit.

• The startup managed to attract several investors during its initial funding round.
• Investors are always looking for promising opportunities to increase their wealth.

Individuals or groups that support a project financially, without necessarily expecting immediate financial returns; commonly used in crowdfunding and business startup contexts.

• The new board game was successfully funded thanks to hundreds of backers on Kickstarter.
• Startups often seek backers to cover initial costs and bring their ideas to life.

People or entities that provide help, including financial or moral encouragement, often without the primary goal of financial gain. The term is broad and can apply to various contexts such as charity, social causes, or small businesses.

• The local animal shelter relies heavily on its supporters for donations and volunteer work.
• He has always been a strong supporter of environmental conservation projects.

An individual or organization that provides funding in exchange for advertising or promotional benefits, often used in the context of events, sports, and media.

• The marathon had multiple sponsors, including major sportswear brands.
• The TV show gained popularity thanks to its sponsor's extensive advertising efforts.