Investment in a company is traded for power over that company (ownership of shares). It's not so much giving money in bulk, as it is paying for your share of co

Investment in a company is traded for power over that company (ownership of shares). It's not so much giving money in bulk, as it is paying for your share of control and reward in the company. If a majority of the controlling ownership of a company decide to liquidate the company, then they can do that, and get back what remains of their investment. There is not usually any right to get your money back as a minority shareholder, as this retraction of your commitment would be damaging to the interests of the other shareholders.