Shareholder

What is a shareholder?

A shareholder is an individual or organisation that owns shares in a company and therefore has a financial interest in its success. Shareholders provide capital in return for the expectation of future returns through dividends, capital appreciation or both. They exercise influence through voting rights and the appointment of the board.

Traditional organisations often regard shareholders as their primary stakeholders, with success measured predominantly by financial performance and shareholder returns.

Intelligent organisations recognise the importance of shareholders but view them as one participant within a broader ecosystem of stakeholders. They understand that long-term shareholder value is created by simultaneously strengthening the organisation's viability, vitality and value for customers, employees, partners, communities and society.

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