If you were to purchase common stocks issued by large, nationally known companies with sound financial histories with solid dividend and growth records you would own what are called

What is a a stock?

A stock represents an ownership stake in a company as a common shareholder.

Common stocks allow shareholders to vote on company issues, with most companies granting one vote per share.

Some companies also offer stockholders dividend payouts, giving investors a stream of income on top of the market value of the stock.