Joint-stock company

Joint-stock company

The biggest businesses in the world are not sole proprietorships or partnerships. All of these businesses are joint stock entities. A joint stock corporation is the best business organization to use while conducting somewhat large-scale business. Partnerships and sole proprietorships cannot challenge a joint-stock company’s dominance in the global arena. 

What is a joint-stock company? 

A joint-stock company is co-owned by its stockholders. The amount of stocks that a shareholder owns determines his percentage of ownership. Additionally, there are no restrictions on the transfer of shares by stockholders. 

A business can use this structure to raise money by issuing shares and debentures to the general public. Although these organizations have a corporate form, they also enjoy the benefits of limited liability. 

Understanding a joint-stock company 

Those that invest in a joint-stock company own the business. Many companies nowadays have chosen this type of ownership structure. The company can grow in this way by gathering funds from many stockholders. Completing the legal procedures allows a private firm to convert to a public company. 

Profit is the primary motivation behind forming a joint stock corporation. Profits accrue to shareholders in proportion to the equities they own. The amount of their capital commitment similarly limits their liability. These shares may be transferred without the other shareholders’ approval, and transfers have no impact on the company’s ability to continue. Additionally, the business is unaffected by a certain shareholder’s retirement, demise, or insanity. 

What are the types of joint stock companies? 

The types of joint stock companies are: 

• Chartered company 

Before 1844, chartered companies may have been founded; but this is not the case anymore. A chartered company is a business incorporated by the king or another head of state. These businesses are often found in countries with monarchies, and historically, chartered firms were given particular privileges and powers because they were founded with the help of a king. Examples of chartered companies include the Bank of England, East India Company, and British South Africa Company. 

• Statutory corporation 

A specific act of the legislature establishes these businesses, a prime minister’s directive, or the general president. The powers, obligations, and liabilities of such an institution are defined by law. These companies exist to carry out some significant domestic activity. 

• Licensed business 

Companies that are incorporated under the Companies Act are subject to rules under the Corporations Act. 

What are the features of a joint-stock company? 

The features of the joint-stock company are: 

• Unlike a partnership or sole proprietorship business, a joint-stock company is distinct from its owners. It has its own legal identity. No one member is responsible for the actions of such a company. Alternatively, such a company won’t rely on any owner or shareholder to decide what it will do in the future. 

• The formation of a joint stock company is required. Its legal standing is terminated if this due process is not followed. There is no choice but incorporation. 

• A joint-stock company is independent of all of its shareholders. Such a company continues as members join and leave, shares are bought and sold, and dividends are earned and paid. This statement is amply supported by its existence as a distinct entity. 

• Some laws govern the number of members a company may have. No maximum number of members must be present for a public limited company. A private limited company must have a minimum of two members. The maximum number of active partners in a partnership firm is also 10 partners. 

• All shareholders have the right to transfer their shares to other potential owners. If you are requested to describe the characteristics of a joint-stock company, keep in mind these elements. 

Advantages of joint-stock company 

The advantages of a joint-stock company are: 

• The limited liability of a joint stock company’s members is one of its main attractions. They are only responsible for the outstanding balance on their shares. Since their money is secure, they are encouraged to invest in joint-stock enterprises. 

• A company’s shares can be transferred. Additionally, they can be sold on the market and turned into cash in the case of a publicly traded corporation. An added benefit is this ease of ownership. 

• Another advantage of a joint stock firm is perpetual succession. A company’s existence is impacted by death, retirement, insanity, etc. Under the Companies Act, a corporation can only be closed down through liquidation. 

• A firm hires a board of directors to oversee all operations. Since highly qualified and skilled individuals are voted to the board, and management is effective and efficient. A corporation typically has many resources, enabling it to hire the best employees. 

Frequently Asked Questions