Dilution

When new shares are issued, existing shareholders own a smaller percentage of the company than before.

Example

You own 100%. You raise a round in which the investor receives 20%. You now own 80%.

Important

Dilution does NOT automatically mean you lost money. Owning 80% of a company worth $5M beats owning 100% of one worth $500k. What matters is whether the value created exceeds the percentage given up.

Related terms