Other defensive measures, such as converting non-voting shares into common stock, and paying a special dividend, also look reassuringly shareholder-friendly.

ECONOMIST: Italian telecoms

The companies he controls--Hollinger Inc. and closely held Ravelston -- have just an 18% economic interest in Hollinger International through Class B shares that have ten times the voting rights of common stock.

FORBES: Lord Black's Bleak Outlook

But unlike common stock, the shares usually don't have voting rights.

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