Understanding the Basics of Preferences Shares

Preference shares offer priority in dividends and capital repayments, but have a lower potential for capital appreciation than common shares.

Preference shares are an important aspect of investing in the stock market. They are a unique type of share that offers certain advantages and features compared to ordinary shares. This article will explore the fundamentals of preference shares, including their rights, risks, and how they function in practice. We will also delve into their role in investment portfolios, regulations and compliance in Singapore, and their presence in the Singapore market. By the end of this article, you will have a solid understanding of preference shares and be better equipped to make informed investment decisions.

Introduction to Preference Shares

Preference shares, also known as preferred shares, are a type of equity security that give shareholders preferential rights and features compared to ordinary shareholders. Companies typically issue these shares to raise capital and attract investors. Accounting services related to preference shares are crucial in ensuring accurate tracking and reporting of dividend payments and their impact on the financial statements. Unlike ordinary shares, preference shares offer a fixed dividend payment that is prioritised over dividends paid to ordinary shareholders. In the event of liquidation, preference shareholders have a higher claim on company assets than ordinary shareholders. Accounting professionals provide valuable expertise in valuing preference shares, determining dividend obligations, and maintaining accurate records of shareholders' equity.

Preference shares can have different classes, each with its own set of rights and features. These rights may include priority in receiving dividends, preference in asset distribution, and the ability to convert the preference shares into ordinary shares. Since preference shareholders have a fixed claim on company profits and assets, they are often seen as less risky compared to ordinary shareholders. Partnering with a reliable accounting service ensures the appropriate accounting treatment and disclosure of preference shares, maintaining compliance with relevant accounting standards and regulations.

Differences Between Preferences Share and Ordinary Shares

While preference shares and ordinary shares represent ownership in a company, they have several key differences. Firstly, preference shares usually have a fixed dividend rate, whereas dividend payments for ordinary shares can vary depending on the company's performance and the board of directors' decisions. This fixed dividend payment makes preference shares more attractive to investors seeking stable income streams.

Secondly, in the event of liquidation, preference shareholders have a higher claim on company assets than ordinary shareholders. This provides additional protection for preference shareholders, as they are more likely to recoup their investment if the company faces financial difficulties.

Lastly, preference shares often do not carry voting rights or have limited voting rights compared to ordinary shares. This means that preference shareholders may not have a say in the company's decision-making process, such as the election of board members or approval of major corporate actions. However, this lack of voting rights is compensated by the preferential treatment received in terms of dividends and asset distribution.

Types of Preference Shares

In the context of the Singapore market, preference shares offer various types to cater to the specific preferences and needs of investors. The Singapore market offers these diverse types of preference shares, allowing investors to choose based on their risk appetite and investment goals.

Cumulative and non-cumulative preference shares

One way preference shares can differ is in whether they are cumulative or non-cumulative. Cumulative preference shares ensure that any unpaid dividends accumulate over time. If the company fails to pay dividends in a given year, the outstanding amount carries over to the following years until it is fully settled. Non-cumulative preference shares, on the other hand, do not accumulate unpaid dividends. If dividends are not paid in a particular year, the shareholders have no claim to those dividends in the future.

Convertible and non-convertible preference shares

Another way preference shares vary is whether they are convertible or non-convertible. Convertible preference shares offer the option for shareholders to convert their shares into a predetermined number of ordinary shares within a specified period or under certain conditions. This conversion feature allows investors to potentially benefit from the growth and increase in the value of the company's ordinary shares. Non-convertible preference shares, on the other hand, do not have the conversion option. These shares provide a fixed rate of return in the form of dividends, typically at a higher rate than ordinary shares, but they do not offer the opportunity for shareholders to convert them into ordinary shares.

Rights and Features of Preference Shares

Preference shares come with a range of rights and features that make them unique. Some common rights and features of preference shares include:

• Priority in receiving dividends: Preference shareholders are entitled to receive dividends before ordinary shareholders. The dividend payment is usually a fixed percentage of the original investment.
• Priority in asset distribution: In liquidation, preference shareholders have a higher claim on company assets than ordinary shareholders. This gives them a better chance of recovering their investment.
• Convertible preference shares: Some preference shares offer the option to convert them into ordinary shares after a certain period. This provides flexibility to investors who may want to switch between different types of shares.
• Redeemable preference shares: Certain preference shares may have a fixed maturity date, after which the company can redeem them at a predetermined price. This allows the company to manage its capital structure more effectively.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Preference Shares

Preference shares offer several advantages that make them attractive to investors. Firstly, their fixed dividend payments provide a stable income stream, making them appealing to income-oriented investors. Additionally, preference shareholders have a higher claim on company assets in the event of liquidation, offering greater protection than ordinary shareholders. This can be particularly advantageous when investing in companies with higher risks.

However, preference shares also have their disadvantages. The fixed nature of dividend payments means that preference shareholders may miss out on potential increases in dividend payments if the company's performance improves. Furthermore, preference shares are more sensitive to interest rate changes than ordinary shares. If interest rates rise, the fixed dividend rate of preference shares may become less attractive to investors.

Risks and Considerations of Preference Shares

As with any investment, preference shares come with their own risks and considerations that investors should be aware of. One risk is the potential for the company to suspend or cut dividend payments. While preference shareholders have a higher priority in receiving dividends, the company may choose to suspend dividend payments altogether during periods of financial difficulty.

Additionally, preference shares are subject to interest rate risk. Since preference shares have fixed dividend rates, they become less attractive to investors if interest rates rise. This can lead to a decline in the market value of preference shares in the secondary market.

Investors should also consider the liquidity of preference shares. Unlike ordinary shares usually traded on stock exchanges, preference shares may have limited trading volumes or may not be listed at all. This can make it challenging to buy or sell preference shares at desired prices.

How Preference Shares Work in Practice

Preference shares work by providing shareholders with preferential rights and features, as outlined in the company's articles of association. These rights and features are established during issuance and are typically fixed throughout the life of the preference shares.

When a company issues preference shares, it can generate capital to fund its operations or specific projects. The investors who purchase preference shares become company shareholders entitled to the benefits and protections associated with preference shares.

The company pays regular dividend payments to preference shareholders based on the fixed dividend rate specified at the time of issuance. These dividend payments are made before any dividends are distributed to ordinary shareholders. In the event of liquidation, preference shareholders have a higher claim on company assets, increasing the likelihood of recovering their investment.

Role of Preference Shares in Investment Portfolios

Preference shares can be valuable in diversifying an investment portfolio. They provide a source of stable income through fixed dividend payments, which can offset the volatility of other investments in the portfolio.

Investors looking for a consistent income stream may allocate a portion of their portfolio to preference shares, especially if they have a lower risk tolerance. The fixed nature of dividend payments provides greater predictability than ordinary shares, which can be attractive for income-oriented investors.

Furthermore, preference shares can offer capital appreciation potential if the market value of the shares increases over time. This can enhance the overall returns of an investment portfolio.

Regulations and Compliance

In Singapore, preference shares are subject to regulatory guidelines and compliance requirements. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) oversees the issuance and trading of preference shares to ensure transparency and investor protection, safeguarding the interests of company shareholders.

Companies issuing preference shares in Singapore must adhere to the applicable rules and regulations set by MAS. This includes providing accurate and timely information to investors, disclosing relevant risks associated with preference shares, and complying with the guidelines for dividend payments and asset distribution. By complying with these regulations, companies demonstrate their commitment to protecting the rights and interests of their shareholders.

Investors in Singapore are encouraged to understand the regulatory framework surrounding preference shares and seek advice from qualified professionals before making investment decisions. By doing so, they can make informed choices and mitigate potential risks associated with investing in preference shares, enhancing the overall transparency and stability of the market for the benefit of all company shareholders.

Preference Shares in the Singapore Market

The Singapore market provides opportunities for investors to invest in various preference shares. Companies across different sectors offer these shares, including finance, real estate, and utilities.

Preference shares in Singapore can be listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX) or traded in the over-the-counter (OTC) market. The SGX provides a regulated and transparent platform for trading preference shares, offering investors liquidity and access to a wide range of investment opportunities.

Investors can research and assess the financial health and prospects of companies issuing preference shares in Singapore to make informed investment decisions. They can also consult financial advisors or brokers specialising in preference shares to explore suitable investment opportunities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, preference shares are a unique type of equity security that provides investors preferential rights and features compared to ordinary shares. They offer fixed dividend payments, priority in asset distribution, and protection in the event of liquidation. Preference shares play a valuable role in diversifying investment portfolios and providing a stable income stream. However, investors should also know the risks and considerations associated with preference shares. By understanding the basics of preference shares and considering their advantages and disadvantages, investors can confidently make informed decisions and navigate the Singapore market.