Lesson 1 - Introduction To Financial Accounting Flashcards
What is the public sector?
The part of the economy owned, financed and controlled by the State.
How many sectors is the UK economy made up of, and what are they?
Two - the public sector and the private sector.
What is the private sector?
The part of the economy where business activity is organised by private individuals operating on their own or in groups.
What types of business entities operate in the private sector?
- Sole traders
- Partnerships
- Limited companies
What is a sole trader?
A business entity owned by one person.
What is an unincorporated business?
One which in the eyes of the law there is no distinction between the business and the owner, who has unlimited liability.
What is unlimited liability?
Being personally responsible for all debts of the business, where private funds as well as those invested in the business are at stake.
What is a partnership?
A business entity owned by 2 or more people who carry on business together with the aim of making a profit.
Is a partnership incorporated or unincorporated?
Unincorporated, therefore the partners have unlimited liability.
In what circumstances can a partner limit their liability?
When the partner only invests funds in the business and is not allowed to be directly involved in the management of the business.
What can be used to set out the rights and responsibilities of partners?
A deed of partnership.
What is a deed of partnership sometimes referred to as?
A partnership agreement.
If no deed of partnership is drawn up, what governs the arrangement?
The Partnership Act 1890.
What does the Partnership Act 1890 state?
The profits or losses of a partnership are shared equally between partners irrespective of capital invested, hours worked or responsibilities.
Who owns limited companies?
Shareholders.