What do equity holders expect from their investments?

Equity holders, or shareholders, typically invest in a company with the expectation of high returns, which often correlates with higher levels of risk. By purchasing shares, they assume ownership in the company and, therefore, participate in the company's profits and growth potential, but also in its risks. Equity investments are inherently volatile and can fluctuate in value based on the company's performance, market dynamics, and broader economic conditions.

Investors anticipate capital appreciation, which is the increase in the value of their shares over time, and may also hope to receive dividends, which are distributions of profits. However, the key characteristic is the understanding that with a higher possibility of return comes higher exposure to risk, meaning that equity holders accept the possibility of loss in pursuit of significant financial rewards.

In contrast, guaranteed income and stable short-term gains align more closely with fixed-income investments or other less risky options, while minimal involvement in business decisions does not capture the active engagement many shareholders have in corporate governance and decision-making, particularly in larger companies or those with a significant shareholder base.