Shareholders: meaning, definitions and examples

Used specifically to refer to individuals or entities that own shares in a corporation. Commonly used in contexts involving corporate documents, financial reports, and business meetings.

• The company announced a dividend payment to all its shareholders.
• Shareholders are expected to attend the annual general meeting to vote on the proposed merger.

Similar to 'shareholders', this term is used in the context of owning stock in a corporation. It is often interchangeable with 'shareholders' but used more frequently in American English.

• Stockholders were pleased with the company’s quarterly earnings report.
• The board of directors has a responsibility to act in the best interest of the stockholders.

Broad term used to describe anyone who commits capital with the expectation of receiving financial returns. Suitable in various financial contexts, from stock markets to startup funding.

• The startup secured funding from several prominent investors.
• Investors are optimistic about the future growth of the tech industry.

Commonly used to describe individuals or entities that have legal possession of an asset or property. It can refer to business owners, real estate owners, or owners of other types of property.

• The owners of the small business decided to expand their operations.
• Property owners must pay property taxes annually.