Shareholder: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to someone who owns shares in a company, typically implying both rights and responsibilities towards the company.

• The company held its annual meeting for all shareholders.
• As a shareholder, she has the right to vote on company decisions.

Synonymous with shareholder, commonly used in American English to describe someone who owns shares in a company.

• The company issued a dividend to its stockholders.
• Stockholders are optimistic about the company's future performance.

Appropriate when talking about an individual or entity that invests money in various assets, including but not limited to companies, with the expectation of earning a return.

• The investor decided to diversify his portfolio by buying real estate and stocks.
• Startups often pitch their ideas to potential investors.

Use when referring to anyone who has an interest or concern in a business or project, including employees, customers, suppliers, and shareholders.

• All stakeholders were invited to discuss the new company policy.
• It's important to consider the impact on all stakeholders when making decisions.