📘 Understanding DRS (Direct Registration System)
If you've been asked whether you want your shares delivered via DRS, or you're trying to understand what "book-entry" means, this article breaks it down for you.
🧾 What is DRS?
DRS stands for Direct Registration System. It is a method of holding securities in book-entry form—meaning:
No physical stock certificate is issued
Shares are electronically registered in your name
You receive a statement of ownership instead of a paper certificate
📌 You may also hear this referred to as “book-entry shares” or a DRS statement.
🧑💼 What is a Transfer Agent?
A Transfer Agent is a licensed financial institution responsible for maintaining the official record of a company’s shareholders. In a DRS system, the transfer agent:
Registers shares in your name
Issues ownership statements
Facilitates share transfers (e.g., to a broker or another party)
May handle corporate actions like dividend payments or stock splits
📌 DealMaker may act as the Transfer Agent for certain offerings—but not always. If you're unsure, check your investment portal or confirmation email to see who the designated transfer agent is for your specific deal.
💼 What is a Broker's Role?
A broker is a financial institution (like Fidelity, Schwab, or TD Ameritrade) that helps you buy, sell, or hold securities in a brokerage account.
If you want your shares held at a brokerage instead of directly through DRS, you’ll typically:
Provide your broker with DRS statement details
Instruct them to initiate a “DRS Transfer” using the Transfer Agent’s information
⚠️ Note: The process and timeline for DRS transfers to brokerage accounts vary by institution and can take several business days.
🔄 DRS vs. Physical Certificates vs. Broker-Dealer Custody
Holding Type | Description | Common Use Case |
DRS / Book-Entry | Shares registered in your name, electronic only | Direct investor ownership |
Physical Certificate | Paper certificate mailed to the investor | Rarely used in modern investing |
Brokerage Account | Shares held by your broker on your behalf | Public stocks and active trading |
📥 How Do I Access My DRS Statement?
If the transfer agent is DealMaker, you’ll receive your book-entry statement via email or through the DealMaker Shareholder Portal.
If another transfer agent is used, they will send your statement or instructions directly.
If you're unsure where to access your statement, submit a support ticket or check your confirmation email.
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a broker to hold my DRS shares?
No. DRS means the shares are held directly in your name without a broker.
Can I move DRS shares into my brokerage account?
Yes, but you must contact your broker and provide them with your DRS statement and the transfer agent’s details.
Is DRS the same as being a shareholder?
Yes. When you hold shares via DRS, you're listed as a registered shareholder with full rights.
💬 Need Help?
If you’re unsure whether your investment is held in DRS, who the transfer agent is, or how to initiate a DRS transfer, we’re here to help.
Use our web chat in your portal
Search our Help Center
Submit a ticket for direct assistance
🛑 DealMaker is not always the Transfer Agent. We do not provide brokerage services and cannot complete transfers to your broker on your behalf.