It is human nature to seek out both novelty and status symbols. But buying common stocks this way is a recipe for disaster. Preferred stockholders are paid a set dividend, while common stock dividends are subject to market forces. Even more importantly, if a company goes under, preferred stockholders are paid before common stockholders, who typically receive nothing. Therefore, think of common stocks as a sort of household necessity, and select them accordingly. Don’t take a chance on a common stock solely for novelty or status