A system that allows shareholders to hold stock in book-entry form registered in their name on the books of the company. At any time, the shareholder may request a certificate which will be provided free of charge. Shareholders have the option to sell shares either through the company (or its transfer agent) or through a broker. The advantage to the shareholders is that they can directly participate in company or transfer agentsponsored plans that are usually only available to registered shareholders, while still maintaining the a to their brokers.