Legal Definitions - tainted stock

Definition: Tainted stock refers to stock owned or transferred by a person who is disqualified from serving as a plaintiff in a derivative action. This means that the person cannot sue on behalf of the company because of a conflict of interest or other disqualifying factor.

Example: If a company executive is accused of wrongdoing and owns stock in the company, they may be disqualified from bringing a lawsuit on behalf of the company. Additionally, if someone buys tainted stock from the executive, they too may be disqualified from bringing a lawsuit.

Explanation: Tainted stock can create conflicts of interest and undermine the ability of shareholders to hold the company accountable for wrongdoing. By disqualifying certain individuals from bringing lawsuits, the legal system aims to prevent these conflicts and ensure that lawsuits are brought in the best interests of the company and its shareholders.