What is a key characteristic of corporations compared to sole proprietorships?

A key characteristic of corporations compared to sole proprietorships is their ability to raise capital through stock. Corporations can issue shares of stock to investors, allowing them to gather significant amounts of capital for growth, expansion, and operations. This access to capital markets is a fundamental advantage of the corporate structure, enabling corporations to attract a wide range of investors who may wish to buy into the company.

In contrast, sole proprietorships have limited options for raising funds, often relying on personal savings or loans, which can restrict their ability to grow or invest in new projects. This intrinsic difference fundamentally shapes the scale at which corporations can operate compared to sole proprietorships.

Understanding this characteristic is essential, as it highlights the corporate structure's role in facilitating larger business operations and attracting equity investment.