Can a Singapore company issue classes of shares other than ordinary shares?

Yes. Most companies are set up with ordinary shares, but other classes of shares such as preference shares can also be issued, subject to the constitution. The voting and dividend rights of each class of shares are set by the constitution and the terms of issue.

• Ordinary shares: Usually carry voting rights, and when the company declares a dividend, holders receive it in proportion to their holdings.
• Preference shares: Often receive dividends ahead of ordinary shares or carry a fixed dividend, and often have no voting rights. The priority of capital repayment on liquidation and redemption terms can also be set in the terms of issue.

If you want to create different classes of shares for raising investment or for a co-founder structure, the constitution should be reviewed before incorporation or the issue of new shares.

Lee Kim Alliance provides a company incorporation service.

As of November 2026, source: ACRA