stockholder

A stockholder, also known as a shareholder, is an individual or entity that owns shares of a company's stock. By owning shares, they essentially hold a small ownership stake in the company. Stockholders can benefit by potentially earning money through dividends, which are a share of the company's profits, and through the appreciation of their stock value if the company performs well. They also have voting rights in company decisions, such as electing directors. In essence, stockholders are partial owners who invest in a company's success and share both its risks and rewards.