A group of stakeholders which has the biggest stake in an organization, business or otherwise. Examples of primary stakeholders include shareholders (or broadly, owners), employees, and customers. Other groups or entities may also be classified as primary or major stakeholders, depending on country of operation, sector and industry. For banks and financial institutions, primary stakeholders may also encompass regulators and supervisory authorities. Such stakeholders have direct and influential link with an organization in terms of their ability to “directly” regulate and govern its business affairs and operations.

In specific countries, local communities and other influential interest groups may also be considered primary stakeholders.