icap_long_flashcards_share_capital
Define ‘Share’ and ‘Share Capital’ with examples.
Share: Share means share in ‘Share Capital’ of a company.
Share Capital: Share capital refers to the total amount invested by the owners of a company. The total share capital is divided into smaller parts, known as shares. Each share has a nominal value.
Example: 500,000 shares of Rs. 10 each = Rs. 5,000,000 share capital.
Explain the difference between Authorized, Issued, and Paid-up Share Capital.
- Authorized Capital: The maximum share capital authorized by the memorandum of a company.
- Issued Capital: The portion of authorized capital that has been issued to shareholders.
- Paid-up Capital: The amount of issued capital actually paid by shareholders.
Describe the publication requirements for Authorized and Paid-up Capital.
- If a company states its authorized capital in any notice , advertisment or other official publication, it must also state its paid-up capital.
- Both statements must be equally prominent and conspicuous.
- Non-compliance results in penalties not exceeding of level 1 for the company and responsible officers.
List the characteristics of shares and their certificates.
- Nature of Shares: Movable property, carrying right and obligation and is transferable as specified by articles.
- Payment: Shares must be fully paid when allotted.
- Identification: Shares must have distinctive numbers.
- Share Certificate: Evidence of ownership, issued physically or electronically under the signature of an authorized officer of the company.
- Issuance: Form and procedure specified in the articles.
What are the possible variations in shareholders’ rights?
- Voting Rights: May vary (e.g., no voting rights or disproportionate to paid-up value).
- Dividend Rights: Different entitlements to dividends, right shares, bonus shares.
- Meeting Rights: Different rights to receive notice and attend meetings.
- Redemption/Conversion Rights: Different terms for share redemption or conversion.
- Period: Rights may be limited to a specific period or indefinite.
Explain the procedure to vary shareholders’ rights.
- Pass a special resolution to alter the articles of association.
- Obtain approval from 3/4th majority of affected class if rights or liabilities are impacted.
- File the altered articles with the registrar within 30 days of resolution.
How can shareholders challenge variations in rights?
1.Appeal: 10% or more members of the affected class can apply to court within 30 days of resolution.
Application can be made by one or more members authorized in writing on behalf of
others.
2. Order of Court
Court shall pass an order to cancel resolution only if it is proved that:
1: Resolution can be challenged if material facts were withheld .If members had
been in knowledge of this facts, or
2 :if variation unfairly prejudices the affected class.
3. Finality: Court’s decision is final, and no appeal can be filed against it.
4. Filing: Company must forward a copy of the court’s order to the registrar within 15 days.
Define ‘Market Value’ and its relevance to shares.
Market Value: The value at which shares are traded on the stock exchange. It reflects investor confidence and market demand but does not impact the company’s paid-up or authorized share capital.
What is the penalty for issuing partly paid shares?
Issuing partly paid shares is not permitted. Companies must issue only fully paid shares. Non-compliance results in regulatory penalties.
What is the significance of distinctive numbers for shares?
- Distinctive numbers uniquely identify each share.
- Prevents duplication and ensures clear ownership records.
How are shares transferred in compliance with company law?
- Submit a share transfer deed.
- Comply with the articles of association.
- Register the transfer with the company within the prescribed timeline.
What happens if share transfer is restricted by articles?
Shareholders must follow the specified restrictions, such as obtaining approval or offering shares to existing members before transferring to others.
Explain the process of issuing bonus shares.
- Source: Issued from company reserves.
- Ratio: Allotted in proportion to existing shareholdings.
- Approval: Requires board and sometimes shareholder approval as per articles.
What is the role of the securities premium account?
- Holds premium received from shares issued above nominal value.
- Uses: Issuing bonus shares, covering share issue expenses, or writing off preliminary expenses.
What is the importance of paid-up capital for creditors?
Paid-up capital indicates the actual capital available in the company, reflecting financial stability and creditworthiness for creditors.