Perheomistus

Perheomistus refers to ownership and control of a company or asset by members of a family. It typically involves a controlling stake held by one or more family members, often through shares owned directly, through a family holding company, or via trusts.

Common features include concentrated voting power, a long-term strategic orientation, and the intergenerational transfer of ownership. Family ownership is often accompanied by governance arrangements such as a family council, board representation for family members, and shareholder agreements that regulate influence and succession.

Advantages include alignment of goals across generations, stability, and access to patient capital for long-term investments. Disadvantages include potential entrenched control, limited external capital, and conflicts between family interests and the needs of non-family shareholders or employees. Governance challenges can arise from nepotism or resistance to professionalization, making independent oversight and clear decision-making rules important.

Succession planning is critical to continuity; many firms establish development plans for heirs and professionalize management through independent directors or external managers. Financial and strategic decisions may later require balancing family objectives with corporate performance and minority shareholder rights.

Context: family-owned firms are common in SMEs worldwide and contribute significantly to local economies. In Finland, perheomistus is a familiar form of ownership among family businesses and is often associated with a long-term ownership horizon and continuity across generations. See also: family business, corporate governance, succession planning.