Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam with confidence. Enhance your knowledge with a range of quizzes, multiple choice questions, and detailed explanations. Equip yourself with the skills necessary to excel in your paralegal career!

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What is a dividend in corporate finance?

  1. A penalty imposed on shareholders

  2. A portion of profits distributed among shareholders based on stock ownership

  3. A type of corporate bond

  4. A fee charged by the corporation for share sales

The correct answer is: A portion of profits distributed among shareholders based on stock ownership

A dividend in corporate finance refers to a portion of a company’s profits that is distributed to its shareholders based on their ownership of shares. This distribution can take various forms, typically cash payments, but can also include stock dividends (additional shares of stock). The decision to pay dividends is determined by the company's board of directors and reflects the company’s profitability, financial health, and growth strategy. Shareholders generally view dividends as a return on their investment, and companies that consistently pay dividends may attract investors looking for steady income. The other choices do not accurately represent what a dividend is. A penalty imposed on shareholders, a type of corporate bond, and a fee charged by the corporation for share sales do not relate to the fundamental concept of dividends, which is to reward shareholders for their investment in the company’s equity. Understanding dividends is crucial for those studying corporate finance as they play a significant role in investment strategies and share valuation.