Maine Proposed Amendment to Restated Certificate of Incorporation: Authorizing Preferred Stock In the state of Maine, corporations have the opportunity to enhance their capital structure through a proposed amendment to the restated certificate of incorporation. This amendment seeks to authorize the issuance of preferred stock, allowing corporations to diversify their funding sources and attract potential investors. Preferred stock refers to a class of stock that holds specific privileges and benefits compared to common stock. These shares generally do not carry voting rights but instead offer predetermined dividend payments and a higher claim on assets in the event of liquidation. By introducing preferred stock, corporations can tailor their capital structure to meet specific business needs and accommodate various investment preferences. The Maine proposed amendment to the restated certificate of incorporation provides corporations with the flexibility to issue different types of preferred stock, including: 1. Cumulative Preferred Stock: This type of preferred stock guarantees the accumulation of unpaid dividends, which must be paid to shareholders before any common stock dividends can be distributed. If a corporation fails to pay dividends in a given period, the dividends will accrue and must be paid in the future before any other distributions to shareholders. 2. Convertible Preferred Stock: Convertible preferred stock offers shareholders the option to convert their shares into a specified number of common shares at any time. This provision allows investors to participate in potential upside gains if the corporation's value increases, providing them with an opportunity for capital appreciation. 3. Participating Preferred Stock: By holding participating preferred stock, shareholders can receive additional dividends beyond their fixed rate. In case of a distribution to common stockholders, participating preferred stockholders are entitled to dividends on a pro rata basis, further enhancing their potential returns. 4. Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock: Unlike cumulative preferred stock, non-cumulative preferred stock does not accumulate unpaid dividends. If a corporation with non-cumulative preferred stock fails to distribute dividends in a specific period, shareholders will not have the right to receive those dividends in the future. It is important to note that the Maine proposed amendment to the restated certificate of incorporation should comply with state laws and regulations. Prior to implementing the amendment, corporations should consult legal professionals to ensure compliance and appropriate authorization of preferred stock. By embracing this proposed amendment and authorizing preferred stock, corporations in Maine can attract a broader range of potential investors and strengthen their capital structure. This strategic step provides businesses with flexibility, while also safeguarding the interests and preferences of both common and preferred stockholders.