The sole criterion for application of the equity method for an investment in the ownership shares of another company is:

a. ownership of voting equity shares in another company.

b. the ability to exercise significant influence over an investee even though the investor holds 50% or less of the common stock.

c. evidence that an investor does not exercise significant influence over an investee.

d. the ability to exercise control over an investee even though the investor holds 50% or less of the common stock.