What is the difference between a stockholder and a shareholder?

Both the terms stockholder and shareholder mean the owner of shares in a company, which means that they are part-owners of a business.  Thus, both terms mean the same thing, and you can use either one when referring to company ownership.

If you want to delve into the underlying meaning of the terms, "stockholder" technically means the holder of stock, which can be construed as inventory, rather than shares. Conversely, "shareholder" means the holder of a share, which can only mean an equity share. Thus, if you want to be picky, "shareholder" may be the more technically accurate term, since it only refers to company ownership.

The rights of a stockholder or shareholder are the same, which are to vote for directors, be issued dividends, and be issued their share of the residual assets upon liquidation of a company. There is also a right to sell any shares owned, but this assumes the presence of a buyer, which can be difficult when the market is minimal or the shares are restricted.

Related Topics

What are the stockholders' equity accounts?
What are the types of preference shares?
What are the types of share capital?
What is paid in capital?
What is stock?