Most people are careful about how they handle valuable possessions.
They put cash in a bank or other secure place, lock up the family silver, and keep expensive jewelry in a safe deposit box. Stock certificates, bonds, rights, and other securities papers are negotiable instruments and, thus, valuable property. If stolen or misplaced, the investor may lose these valuable assets. The likelihood of a total loss depends on whether the investor has maintained appropriate records. But getting a replacement certificate can be very difficult if your records are incomplete.