NASAA Series 65, Uniform Investment Adviser Law ExaminationInvestment Vehicle CharacteristicsEasy

A portfolio manager is evaluating a client's holdings and notes a significant allocation to a security that represents ownership in a company, provides voting rights, and has the potential for capital appreciation, but does not guarantee dividend payments. Which type of security is this client primarily holding?

  1. ATreasury Bill
  2. BPreferred Stock
  3. CCorporate Bond
  4. DCommon Stock
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D. Common Stock

Common stock represents ownership, provides voting rights, and has potential for capital appreciation without guaranteed dividends, matching the description.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. A Treasury bill is a short-term debt instrument issued by the U.S. government, not an ownership stake in a company.
  • B. Preferred stock typically does not have voting rights and usually offers fixed dividend payments, which contradicts the 'no guaranteed dividends' aspect.
  • C. A corporate bond is a debt instrument, not an ownership stake, and does not provide voting rights.

Common Stock

A security that represents ownership in a corporation, giving the holder a claim on a portion of the company's assets and earnings, and typically voting rights.

  • Represents ownership in a company
  • Provides voting rights
  • Potential for capital appreciation and dividends (not guaranteed)

Memory trick: Common Stock gives you Common control and Common gains.

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