vähemmistöomistus

Vähemmistöomistus refers to a situation in corporate ownership where an individual or entity holds less than fifty percent of the voting shares in a company. This means the vähemmistöomistaja, or minority shareholder, does not have control over the company's decisions, as a majority shareholder or a group of shareholders acting in concert can outvote them. Despite lacking control, vähemmistöomistajat still possess certain rights and protections under corporate law.

These rights are designed to safeguard the interests of minority shareholders and prevent oppression by the majority. Common protections include the right to information, such as access to company records and financial statements, and the right to participate in shareholder meetings and vote on significant matters. In some jurisdictions, vähemmistöomistajat may also have rights related to dividends, pre-emptive rights on new share issues, and in extreme cases, a right to exit the company (buy-out rights) if their interests are being unfairly prejudiced.

The concept of vähemmistöomistus is important in corporate governance as it balances the power of majority shareholders with the need to protect smaller investors. Without these protections, minority shareholders could be exploited or their investments devalued through decisions made solely in the interest of the majority. Understanding vähemmistöomistus is crucial for anyone investing in or involved with companies where ownership is not fully consolidated.