Penny stocks, also known as micro-cap stocks, nano-cap stocks, small-cap stocks, and OTC stocks, are common shares of small public companies that typically trade outside of the major exchanges and often trade over-the-counter (OTC) through the OTC Bulletin Board (OTCBB) and pink sheets. These stocks have a relatively low share price, hence their name. They also have a small market capitalization. Penny stocks are high risk and highly speculative. This is due to their small-cap status among other things.
The term “Penny Stock” has evolved from a generalization of stocks that trade for less than $1 per share, to now include all stocks that trade below $5 per share as stated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Although most penny stocks are not traded on major exchanges, there are several companies that trade below $5 per share on the main exchanges such as the Nasdaq and NYSE.
Penny stocks are not for the faint-hearted investor as they come with a higher risk of volatility. However, along with high risk, these stocks also come with the potential for high rewards. With the potential to offer significant growth virtually overnight, penny stocks have become a popular choice among many investors.
Penny Stock Companies
Typically, penny stocks are growing companies that have limited cash and resources and low trading volumes. There are a few factors that make penny stocks riskier that investors should keep an eye on. Things like lack of information available to the public, no minimum standards, lack of history, and liquidity.
The SEC also recommends that investors keep
Keep in mind, some penny stocks can and do make their way to major exchanges. There are several events that may contribute to the transition from a penny stock to a regular stock. The company can issue new securities in an offering that is registered with the SEC, or it can register an existing class of securities with the regulatory body.
Typically, either one of those options automatically requires the company to follow periodic reporting, which includes disclosures to investors regarding its business activities, financial condition, and management of the company.
