Osakkuus

Osakkuus, in Finnish business language, refers to the ownership stake or participating interest that a person or entity has in a company. It is usually expressed as a percentage of the share capital or voting rights and indicates both influence on decisions and entitlement to profits and losses. Osakkuus can be held directly in an osakeyhtiö (limited liability company) or indirectly through holdings in other companies. Different share classes can give different voting rights; some osakkuudet may be non-voting or carry preferred rights. In addition, contractual arrangements such as shareholder agreements can create or limit osakkuus by providing board representation, veto powers, or special information rights.

Rights and responsibilities: The holder of an osakkuus generally has the right to attend and vote at general meetings, to receive information about the company, and to a share of profits in proportion to the stake. In a Finnish osakeyhtiö, liability for company debts is typically limited to the contributed capital; the owner’s personal assets are not at risk solely because of the osakkuus. Obligations include compliance with laws and the terms of the shareholder agreement and, in some cases, duties related to disclosure and fiduciary duties in board roles.

Transfer and exit: Osakkuus can be transferred by sale or gift. Shareholder agreements may include restrictions such as rights of first refusal, tag-along or drag-along rights, and conditions on transfers to maintain control and liquidity.

Regulatory and tax context: Dividends and capital gains relating to osakkuus are subject to Finnish tax rules. Corporate governance under the Finnish Companies Act and, for public markets, securities regulation shapes how osakkuudet are managed and disclosed.

Uses and examples: In startups, osakkuus often refers to early investors’ equity and governance rights; in family and professional firms, osakkuudet balance liquidity needs with long-term control.