The answer is A. preferred stockholders.
Preferred stockholders are a type of shareholder who have a higher claim on a company’s assets and earnings than common stockholders. This means that, in the event of a liquidation, preferred stockholders are paid first, before common stockholders. Preferred stockholders also typically have a fixed dividend, which is paid out before any dividends are paid to common stockholders.
Common stockholders, on the other hand, have a lower claim on a company’s assets and earnings. They are also not guaranteed a dividend, and the amount of any dividend is determined by the board of directors.
Hybrid stockholders are a type of shareholder who have characteristics of both preferred and common stockholders. For example, they may have a fixed dividend, but they may also have the right to vote on certain matters.
Debt holders are creditors of a company, rather than shareholders. This means that they have lent money to the company, and they are entitled to be repaid with interest. Debt holders do not have any ownership interest in the company, and they do not have any voting rights.
In conclusion, preferred stockholders are the type of shareholder who do not get benefits even if company’s earnings grow.