dactionnaires

Dactionnaires is the French-language form for shareholders, referring to individuals or legal entities that own shares in a corporation. Ownership confers a claim on a portion of the company’s assets and on future profits through dividends or capital gains, and is typically evidenced by share certificates or electronic records.

Shareholder rights include voting at general meetings, electing or removing directors, and approving major corporate actions such as mergers or changes to the capital structure. They also have the right to receive information about the company’s performance and governance, and to a share of profits through dividends or residual assets on liquidation. Some shares may carry different privileges, such as non-voting rights or preferred status with priority to dividends.

Shareholders differ in composition and influence. Retail shareholders are individuals with relatively small holdings, while institutional investors, such as pension funds and mutual funds, hold large blocks and can exert substantial influence. Ownership can be dispersed among many holders or concentrated in a controlling shareholder, which can affect governance, transparency, and risk.

Markets for shares provide liquidity, allowing buying and selling. Companies are typically required to disclose material information to maintain fair markets, and governance frameworks outline directors’ duties and responsibilities toward shareholders. Shareholder activism, including votes, proposals, and public campaigns, is a common mechanism for influencing corporate policies and strategic direction.