preference shares

British  

plural noun

1. US and Canadian name: preferred stock.  shares representing part of the capital issued by a company and entitling their holders to priority with respect to both net profit and net assets. Preference shares usually carry a definite rate of dividend that is generally lower than that declared on ordinary shares Compare ordinary shares preferred ordinary shares

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Example Sentences

However, the company went on to source equity from elsewhere and when US equity firm TSG Consumer Partners acquired a 22% stake in Brewdog, they were given "preference shares".

From BBC • May 23, 2026

It was given "preference shares", which meant it would get its money back first in the event of a sale.

From BBC • Mar. 4, 2026

But unlike the Equity for Punks' "ordinary" shareholders, TSG was given "preference shares".

From BBC • Feb. 27, 2026

“The board will now consider its next steps and will continue to engage with our shareholders,” Chairman Marijn Dekkers said, adding Unilever will proceed with the plan to cancel its Dutch preference shares.

From Reuters • Oct. 5, 2018

He had received in payment cash, debentures and preference shares, and his lawyers and his own acumen had acclaimed the bargain.

From Huntingtower by Buchan, John