Anne Lafarre combines wide ranging empirical legal and economic research to analyse and understand the real role of the AGM in the European businesses and corporate governance frameworks today.

The legal regulation of company shares is a fundamental building block in a capitalist society. This insightful book provides an historical analysis of the phenomenon, investigating underlying policy issues and considering relevant aspects of current law to explore possible future trends. David Milman examines the phenomenon of the company share in a holistic way, tracing the origins of the share and exploring the diversity present within the family of shares. Using a comparative approach, key chapters consider the circumstances under which shares are acquired, the property law perspective relevant to shares and the rights and obligations of those who hold shares. The book concludes with speculation on how the share might evolve in the future in light of technological change and the development of other capital raising investments. This accessible book will provide valuable insight to scholars researching corporate law. It will also be beneficial for policymakers and practitioners wishing to understand more about the history of the company share, and how this may impact its future.

Two strengths distinguish this textbook from others. One is its presentation of subjects in the contexts wherein they occur. The other is its use of current events. Other improvements have shortened and simplified chapters, increased the numbers and types of pedagogical supplements, and expanded the international appeal of examples.