PrivateTechSharesStichting
Also called: Dutch foundation
In one line
A Dutch foundation — a legal entity with no shareholders — often used to hold and administer company shares, as in a STAK structure.
In plain English
A stichting is an ownerless Dutch foundation. In startup equity it's the vehicle behind a STAK, holding shares and issuing receipts, and it's also used for control and governance.
If you were explaining it to a 5-year-old
A special Dutch club that nobody owns, set up just to look after toys on everyone's behalf.
Why it matters when you sell
Understanding the stichting that holds your shares tells you who really controls them and how a sale would work.
Related terms
Put it to use
When you're ready to go deeper, there's an optional Equity Toolkit and Report.
Sources
Primary references for this term: Belastingdienst (Netherlands). Our definitions are written in plain English and kept evergreen — see the glossary methodology. General information, not advice.
Educational information only — not financial, tax or legal advice, and not an offer to buy or sell any security. Definitions are general; your own documents and local law govern your situation. PrivateTechShares is independent and not a broker or marketplace.