Final answer:
Common stockholders expect to earn a return by receiving dividends or through capital gains. Therefore, the correct option is C.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common stockholders expect to earn a return by receiving dividends. When a firm decides to issue stock, investors expect to receive a rate of return. This return can come in the form of direct payments to shareholders called dividends. Alternatively, investors can earn a return by selling their shares at a higher price, which is known as a capital gain.