accounting

The Benefits of Becoming a Public Limited Company

Establishing a public limited company can sometimes be the most tax-efficient corporate structure for its directors and shareholders. There are several types of companies including:

  • Company with limited liability
  • A limited liability company
  • Unlimited private company

Most companies are limited to stocks. This means that the value of the shares owned will limit the shareholder’s financial responsibility in the event of a problem. Until they break the law, business leaders are not personally liable for business debts. However, running a business requires a little more administration, which can put some people off.

accounting company

How do Public Companies Differ?

Choosing the right corporate structure depends heavily on the circumstances. The two most common types of companies are limited liability companies or limited liability companies, which have different requirements. For example, a public limited company (also known as a PLC) must have a company secretary and a minimum share capital of £ 50,000. Private companies have no minimum value requirements.

A state-owned company must also receive full payment (the bonus and at least a quarter of the nominal value of the shares) before the allocation of the shares. Stock allocation is the process of creating and issuing new shares in a company. They also have to wait to get their certificate of registration before they can start trading. It is also interesting that state-owned companies are subject to stricter controls. This is to protect investors as their units are offered for public sale.

What are the Advantages of a Public Company?

The main benefit of forming a public company is the ability to list the company’s shares on the stock exchange. This enables the company to raise capital by selling shares to the public. It also makes it easier for existing shareholders to buy and sell shares.

Dividends paid to shareholders in a public company are also likely to be higher than those paid to shareholders in private companies. Public companies need more equity to get started, so they tend to make more profits faster.

Public Limited Company

Are there Disadvantages of Forming a Public Limited Company?

The PLC must have a professionally qualified company secretary, such as an attorney or accountant. It’s often not a hindrance, but it’s certainly worth considering when you start out. Private companies do not need a company secretary, but they can if they wish.

A public company also has less time to present its financial statements to its members after the end of an accounting period than a private company.

  • Six months for a public company.
  • Nine months for a private company.

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