What is the bonus shares ratio and how is it calculated?

The company issues bonus shares in a certain ratio called the bonus share ratio. For example, if the bonus share ratio is 1:5, you will get 1 free share for every 5 shares you hold. If you hold 100 shares on the record date, you will have 120 shares after the 20 bonus shares are credited to your account. 

Bonus ratioOld face valueShares held before bonusShare price before bonus Investment value before bonus New Face ValueShares held after bonusShare price after bonusInvestment value after bonus
1:110100500500001020025050000
3:110100500500001040012550000

Note: In a bonus share issue, the investment value and face value will remain the same. However, the number of stocks held increases.