What type of security pays a fixed amount on a quarterly basis and allows the holder to benefit if the common stock rises?

The correct choice is convertible preferred stock. This type of security offers investors a fixed dividend, typically paid quarterly, which guarantees a certain income stream. Unlike common stock, which can fluctuate in value, the fixed dividend provides stability for the holder.

Additionally, convertible preferred stock allows the holder to convert their preferred shares into a predetermined number of common shares. This feature becomes particularly beneficial if the company’s common stock rises in value; the holder can exercise the conversion option to take advantage of the appreciating common stock, thus potentially increasing their overall investment returns.

In contrast, convertible bonds also provide fixed interest payments but are debt instruments, not equity, and do not directly offer the same quarterly income structure as preferred stock. Warrants are rights that give the holder the option to purchase stock at a specific price, but they do not provide fixed income payments. Rights are options granted to existing shareholders to buy additional shares at a discounted price, but they also lack the fixed payment feature found in preferred stock.