In relation to equity interests, what does the right of first refusal typically entail?

The right of first refusal typically entails the ability to buy equity before others. This provision gives existing shareholders or stakeholders the preference to purchase additional shares or equity that may be available for sale, essentially allowing them to maintain or increase their ownership stake before those shares can be offered to external parties.

This right is particularly common in private equity agreements and can serve to protect existing investors from dilution of their ownership percentage as new shares are issued. By allowing current stakeholders the first opportunity to buy shares, it helps maintain the balance of control within the existing ownership group.

The other options do not accurately reflect the fundamental nature of a right of first refusal. For example, while a guaranteed profit margin on sales or a limit on equity transfer to outsiders may be relevant to other aspects of equity interests, they do not define the primary purpose of a right of first refusal. Similarly, an obligation to maintain portfolio secrecy does not pertain to the mechanics of equity purchasing rights.