Maryland Proposed Amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation to Authorize Preferred Stock In the state of Maryland, there is a proposed amendment to the restated certificate of incorporation that seeks to authorize the issuance of preferred stock by a corporation. This amendment allows businesses to have additional flexibility in their capital structure and provides an avenue for potential investors to secure preferred ownership rights within the company. Preferred stock, in comparison to common stock, offers several advantages and different features. It is important to note that there can be different types of preferred stock as well. Here are a few notable variations: 1. Cumulative Preferred Stock: This type of preferred stock grants shareholders the right to accumulate unpaid dividends over time. If dividends are not paid in a particular period, they accrue and must be paid before any dividends are distributed to common stockholders. 2. Convertible Preferred Stock: Convertible preferred stock provides the option for shareholders to convert their shares into a predetermined number of common shares. This conversion typically happens at the discretion of the shareholder or according to specific terms outlined in the company's charter. 3. Participating Preferred Stock: This type of preferred stock allows shareholders to receive additional dividends beyond their fixed rate if the company exceeds certain profit thresholds. Participating preferred stockholders have the opportunity to benefit from the company's success by sharing in the profits alongside common stockholders. 4. Voting Preferred Stock: While common stockholders usually hold voting rights, this type of preferred stock grants shareholders the ability to vote alongside the common stockholders on specific company matters. The voting power can be equal, limited, or amplified, depending on the specific terms outlined in the amendment. The proposed amendment to the restated certificate of incorporation offers companies in Maryland the opportunity to issue preferred stock to interested investors, providing them with various benefits and preferences compared to common stockholders. This amendment aims to boost investment opportunities, secure funding for growth initiatives, and potentially enhance the financial stability of corporations operating in Maryland. If passed, the Maryland Proposed Amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation to Authorize Preferred Stock will empower businesses to tailor their capital structure to meet their specific needs, attract investors seeking preferred ownership rights, and potentially unlock new avenues of growth and success within the state's business ecosystem.