What are advantages and disadvantages of common stocks?

Answer 1

Common stock is the major type of stock that is issued, it is different from preferred stock in that preferred stocks receive the first part of a dividend payment. Common stock receives what is left over after all of the preferred stocks have received their share, if anything. The benefit comes when there is a large dividend paid, many times (depending on the terms) preferred stocks have a limit to what they will pay per share, but the common stocks do not have a limit, and share equally what is paid out after the preferred stock, so there is a great opportunity for gain when times are good and large dividends are paid. The disadvantage comes when smaller dividends are paid, these stocks may receive only a little portion or even nothing from the dividend payment after the preferred stocks receive their shares. Common stock also come with voting rights to which preferred stocks may not entitle the owner.