Term · Capital Measures & Financing

Subscription rights discount

Advanced
In briefThe subscription rights discount is the price reduction of new shares in a rights issue compared with the current price. For small caps it is often large in order to place a capital increase despite low liquidity.

Definition

The discount at which new shares are offered relative to the current price in the context of a rights issue.

How it is calculated

Formula. Discount = 1 − subscription price ÷ reference price.

Why it matters for small caps

In the small-cap segment the discount is often high in order to place a capital increase despite low liquidity and risk.

Common misreadings

  • A high discount is sometimes seen as a gift; economically, only participation protects against dilution.

Frequently asked

What is the subscription rights discount?
It is the discount of the subscription price relative to the reference price. It makes the new shares more attractive to subscribers.
How is the discount calculated?
You relate the subscription price to the reference price and determine the percentage difference. This yields the discount of the issue.
Is a high subscription rights discount a gift?
No, economically only participation protects against dilution. Anyone who does not subscribe loses value pro rata.

Sources

Primary
Bundesministerium der Justiz – Aktiengesetz (AktG)
https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/aktg/
Methodology
Category: Capital Measures & Financing · Equity financingRelevance: AdvancedJurisdiction: International

Education only, not investment advice. Ranges and thresholds are didactic orientation values, not an official standard.