Shareholder Wealth Maximization vs Profit Maximization Objective – Meaning and 10 Differences

The shareholder wealth maximization objective states that a business should engage in activities that increase its worth and increase the value of its shareholders.

It is concerned with maximizing the returns to shareholders or increasing the values of stocks held by shareholders.

The wealth maximization objective is typically measured by the market value of a company’s shares.

Shareholder Wealth Maximization Objective- Meaning, Advantages, and Limitations

Shareholder wealth maximization refers to the management’s goal of making financial decisions that increase the value of shares owned by the company’s shareholders. 

It is the fundamental objective of financial management that focuses on increasing the overall value of a company, which in turn leads to an increase in the value of its shares.

The wealth maximization objective is considered both appropriate and practical for guiding financial decisions by financial managers.

It provides a clear picture of what financial managers should aim for when making investment and financial decisions.

An important aspect of the wealth maximization objective is maximizing the net present value (or wealth) of a course of action.