The holders of common stock in a corporation are generally entitled to cast one vote for each share they own in the election of directors. The owners may appear in person to vote, or may give another person the Power of Attorney, called a proxy. Generally, having once discharged this right, the stockholders cease to be a factor of much importance in the management of the company. Common stockholders also have the right to share in the income of the business in proportion to their investment. If this right is exercised, their share of the value of assets, income, and voting power is preserved.
Stockholders also have the right to be informed of the company's financial and business status.
They normally have the right to transfer shares of stock freely. Liability for corporation debts is normally limited to the capital a stockholder has invested in the corporation. When attempting to contact the corporation you should always ask to speak to a corporation officer. Corporations often issue bonds as well as stock as a means of raising capital. Stocks represent ownership in the company, but a bond is a contractual obligation .