Kabuken means "stock certificate" in Japanese
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Why Own a Stock Certificate?
Although it's easy to forget sometimes, a share is not a lottery ticket... it's part-ownership of a business.
- Peter Lynch

Some people have asked us why anyone would want to own a stock certificate when the record of ownership can be maintained electrically and the account can be monitored through online account access. This is a very good question, and since there is a recent trend (unfortunately) in investment industry to move toward electric registration system (and thus eliminating the need for stock certificate), I would like to dedicate this article to list why I believe there are values in owning a stock certificate.

Proof of Ownership

As Mr. Lynch said, owning a share of a company means being a part-owner of the company. And what is a better way to show the ownership of a company than a stock certificate? Sure, an account statement from transfer agent can be used as a proof, but having a stock certificate makes the proof much more special.

Some companies would recommend electric registration instead of owning a stock certificate because it would eliminate the concerns of lost, stolen or destroyed certificate. Although they have a good point (because replacing it would require paperwork, postage to mail the forms, and a fee to issue a new one), there is a same risk with any other assets you have in your house (such as expensive artwork, jewelry, title of your vehicle, etc.), and many of them are irreplaceable (while stock certificate can be replaced).
 
Decoration
If you have not seen our Stock Certificate Gallery, I hope you take a few minutes of your time to visit. There are many companies that put great effort in making beautiful and unique stock certificates. And, of course, if you like the appearance of a classic stock certificate, there are many that still stick with the tradition. These stock certificates would look great on a wall (especially when it is framed) next to or in place of other artworks, your diploma, or license certificate.
Unique Gift

With all the holidays, birthdays and other occasions that happen throughout a year, it is sometimes difficult to find a good gift. And it is even harder to find if you want it to be a unique gift. Well, stock certificate is a unique gift, and it is easier to purchase than one might think. Try one of One Share Stores and see how easy it can be.

For those of you who are willing to go extra miles to make a gift even more special, try a fortune cookie or a tree to accompany the stock.
Sense of Belonging, Pride
Do you have a favorite company? A reason can be anything - you just happen to like their products, or you think their characters are cute. You like it because your family member works for the company, or the company remind you of a fond memory. Whatever the case may be, owning a stock certificate will give you a warm feeling that you are part of them.
Also, a stock certificate is an excellent way to promote sense of belonging to the employees. Many companies offer employee investment programs for employees to invest in the company's shares, but I bet giving an actual stock certificate to represent their part-ownership would win their heart.
Long-Term Investment
If you are thinking about a long-term investment, but are not sure if you can fight the urge of wanting to sell in a few months, or if you want to give a gift of shares to someone (like your child), but don't want the recipient to turn around and sell it, stock certificate is an excellent way to encourage the long-term investment.
 

Frankly, stock certificate is not for everyone. If you are a short-term investor, or if you want to sell the shares quickly at the specific price, owning a stock certificate would not work too well for you. However, for those of us who purchase stocks for more than just a quick way to make money, a stock certificate can be a great asset.

And if the company discontinues the issue of stock certificate, or if the company itself dicontinues its business, let's hope that the stock certificate revives itself as a scripophily.

 
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