What type of insurance company is owned by stockholders?

A stock insurance company is one that is owned by stockholders who may receive dividends based on the company's profitability. In this structure, the stockholders are invested in the company and expect a return on their investment, which often leads to a focus on profitability and shareholder value. This entity issues shares of stock that can be bought and sold, and stockholders have a say in corporate governance through their voting rights.

In contrast, a mutual insurance company is owned by its policyholders, who are essentially members, and any profits generally go back to them in the form of reduced premiums or dividends rather than being distributed to stockholders. A fraternal insurance company is a type of mutual company organized on a nonprofit basis to provide insurance to members of a specific group or organization. An assessment mutual is a type of mutual insurance where losses are assessed to policyholders after they occur, again maintaining a different structure from that of stock companies.

Therefore, a stock insurance company distinctly stands out as a model aimed at providing returns to its stockholders, illustrating the ownership structure that defines its operations.