
Joint-stock banking
Joint-stock banking is a financial model where a bank is owned collectively by multiple shareholders through shares of stock. Each shareholder's ownership percentage corresponds to their investment, and they share in the profits or losses. This structure allows banks to raise capital by selling shares and spreads ownership risk. It also typically means the bank operates as a corporation, with a board overseeing management. This model helps ensure stability, accountability, and access to significant capital for expansion and operations, making it a common structure for modern banks.