Maryland Guaranty of Payment of Dividends on Stocks is a provision in corporate law that aims to protect shareholders by ensuring the timely payment of dividends on stocks issued by Maryland-based corporations. This guaranty is governed by Section 2-106 of the Maryland General Corporation Law. Under this provision, Maryland corporations are required to guarantee the payment of dividends to their shareholders. This means that regardless of the company's financial performance or profitability, shareholders are entitled to receive dividend payments as long as they meet the predetermined eligibility criteria. The purpose of the Maryland Guaranty of Payment of Dividends on Stocks is to provide shareholders with assurance and security, encouraging investment in Maryland-based corporations. This provision reinforces the rights of shareholders and helps maintain a favorable investment environment in the state. There are two types of Maryland Guaranty of Payment of Dividends on Stocks: 1. Cumulative Preferred Stock Dividends: This type of guaranty ensures that if a corporation fails to pay dividends on preferred stock in any given year, the unpaid amount accumulates and must be paid to shareholders in subsequent years before common shareholders can receive dividend payments. Cumulative preferred stock dividends take priority over common dividends. 2. Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock Dividends: Unlike cumulative preferred stock dividends, non-cumulative preferred stock dividends do not accumulate or carry forward. If a corporation fails to pay dividends on non-cumulative preferred stock in any given year, shareholders have no entitlement to receive those unpaid dividends in the future. The right to receive dividends is limited to the current year only. Overall, the Maryland Guaranty of Payment of Dividends on Stocks serves as a protective measure for shareholders of Maryland-based corporations, ensuring their right to receive dividends. By offering this guarantee, Maryland strives to create an attractive environment for investors, fostering economic growth and stability in the state.