laajennusosakkeet

Laajennusosakkeet, often translated as "expansion shares" or "rights shares" in English, are a type of share issued by a company to raise additional capital. This typically occurs when a company intends to expand its operations, undertake a new project, or finance a significant acquisition. The issuance of laajennusosakkeet allows existing shareholders the opportunity to purchase new shares, often at a preferential price compared to the prevailing market price. This preemptive right ensures that existing shareholders can maintain their proportional ownership stake in the company, preventing dilution.

The process usually involves the company announcing a rights issue, specifying the subscription price, the ratio of new shares to existing shares (e.g., one new share for every five held), and the subscription period. Shareholders who choose to exercise their rights will subscribe to the new shares, while those who do not wish to increase their holdings may sell their subscription rights on the market. These rights can often be traded separately for a limited time before the subscription period ends. The purpose is to provide a fair and equitable way for companies to raise capital while respecting the existing ownership structure.