Full Ratchet

Dictionary Says

Definition of 'Full Ratchet'

An anti-dilution provision that, for any shares of common stock sold by a company after the issuing of an option (or convertible security), applies the lowest sale price as being the adjusted option price or conversion ratio for existing shareholders.
Investopedia Says

Investopedia explains 'Full Ratchet'

Full-ratchet anti-dilution protection allows an investor to have his or her percentage ownership remain the same as the initial investment.

For example, an investor who paid $2 per share for a 10% stake would get more shares in order to maintain that stake if a subsequent round of financing were to come through at $1 per share. The early round investor would have the right to convert his shares at the $1 price, thereby doubling his number of shares.

Related Definitions

  • Anti-Dilution Provision

    A provision in an option or a convertible security. It protects an investor from dilution resulting from later issues of stock at a lower price than the investor originally paid. Also ...
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    Securities, usually bonds or preferred shares, that can be converted into common stock. Convertibles are most often associated with convertible bonds, which allow bond holders to convert ...
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  • Dilution

    A reduction in earnings per share of common stock that occurs through the issuance of additional shares or the conversion of convertible securities.
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    • Diluted Earnings Per Share - Diluted EPS

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    • Venture Capital

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    • Price Ratchet

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