How can shareholders' rights associated with shares be varied?

The ability to vary shareholders' rights associated with shares typically adheres to the provisions outlined in the company's articles of association or statutory procedures defined in corporate legislation. When a company is formed, its articles set the framework for how different classes of shares operate, including their rights and privileges.

Any alteration to these rights must follow the regulations set out in the company's articles as well as relevant provisions of the Companies Act or other applicable legislation. This ensures that changes are carried out in a formal, lawful manner and provides protection for shareholders against arbitrary changes that could adversely affect their interests.

While options such as a shareholders' agreement can dictate certain relationships and understandings among shareholders, they do not have the authority to override statutory requirements or the articles of the company. Court orders can intervene in specific instances, but they are not the primary route for varying shareholders' rights. Ultimately, adherence to pre-defined articles and compliance with statutory procedures forms the foundation for any changes to shareholders' rights.