Correct Answer: Ownership in the company

Solution : The correct answer is  (a) Ownership in the company

Equity shares represent ownership in a company. When an individual or an entity purchases equity shares, they become shareholders and acquire a proportionate ownership stake in the company. This means that they have a claim on the company's assets, earnings, and decision-making rights.Equity shares are also distinct from fixed income securities. Fixed income securities, such as bonds or preferred shares, provide investors with a fixed regular income in the form of interest or dividends. However, equity shares do not guarantee a fixed income; instead, shareholders may receive dividends based on the company's profitability and decisions made by its management.