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Companies Act 2013 of Private Company

Private companies are business entities owned by a small group of shareholders or a non-governmental organization. Unlike public companies, private companies do not trade their shares on public stock exchanges
authorImageShruti Dutta18 Jul, 2024
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Companies Act 2013 of Private Company

Companies Act 2013 of Private Company: The Companies Act of 2013 in India has revolutionised the regulatory landscape for private companies, providing a clear framework that balances operational flexibility with stringent compliance requirements. Private companies, defined under Section 2(68) of the Act, play a pivotal role in the country's business ecosystem by offering limited liability and fostering entrepreneurship.

This explores the fundamental aspects and privileges afforded to private companies under the Act, highlighting their formation, governance structure, compliance obligations, and unique operational advantages. Understanding these provisions is essential for navigating the legal landscape and leveraging the benefits of establishing or operating within the private company framework in India.

Companies Act 2013 of Private Company

Private companies are defined under Section 2(68) of the Companies Act 2013, which limits their association and transferability of shares, distinguishing them from public companies. These companies also restrict public subscription to their shares. Additionally, the Act limits the number of members in a private company to 200. However, this rule does not apply to one-person companies and exempts former employees from this count. Furthermore, joint ownership of shares by two persons is treated as a single unit. Previously, private companies were required to have a minimum paid-up share capital of Rs. 1 lakh. Still, this requirement was abolished by an amendment in 2005, leaving no minimum capital requirement for private companies.

Types of Private Limited Companies

Private limited companies can be classified based on the extent of their members' liabilities:
  • Limited by shares : Here, members' liabilities are restricted to the amount unpaid on their shares in the company.
  • Limited by guarantee : Liability is limited to the specific amount that members agree to pay if the company is wound up.
  • Unlimited liability : In this scenario, members bear unrestricted liability, which could potentially lead to the sale of their assets if the company faces liquidation.

Features of Companies Act 2013 of Private Company

Private companies, governed under the Companies Act, possess distinctive features that differentiate them from public companies:
  1. Membership: Private companies can have a minimum of two and a maximum of 200 members, excluding certain categories like former employees.
  2. Name: The name must include "Private Limited" at the end, distinguishing it from public companies.
  3. Memorandum of Association: This document outlines the company's name, registered office address, objectives, and members' liability extent. It also details the subscribers to the Memorandum.
  4. Restrictions on Share Transfer: Shares cannot be freely traded on stock exchanges , and there are limitations on their transfer as per the Articles of Association.
  5. Regulatory Compliance: Private companies must adhere to specific regulations regarding their name, Articles of Association, and member details, and they must share transfer policies as per the Companies Act.
  6. Financial Reporting: Compared to public companies, they enjoy certain exemptions in financial reporting requirements, which promotes privacy in financial matters.
  7. Governance: Private companies typically have a more flexible governance structure, often with simplified decision-making processes.
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Step to Register Companies Act 2013 of Private Companies

To register a Private Limited Company, certain essential documents must be furnished:
  1. An affidavit on stamp paper from subscribers affirming their intent to become company shareholders.
  2. Proof of office address, such as a rental agreement, sale deed, or ownership deed of the office premises, is required.
  3. If the registered office is rented or leased, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the property owner.
  4. Copies of recent utility bills (e.g., water, electricity, gas) not exceeding two months old.
  5. Identity and address proof of all directors involved in the company.
These documents are necessary to comply with the registration requirements under applicable laws and ensure transparency in establishing a Private Limited Company.

Formation of Private Companies

A company can be established with a minimum of two and a maximum of 200 members, as per the requirements outlined in the Companies Act. During the application process, detailed information about the company must be submitted to the Registrar of Companies. This includes a subscribed version of the Memorandum of Association and other necessary documents and payment of requisite fees. The Memorandum of Association must specify the company's name, which must include the words "Private Limited," its registered office address, objectives and purposes, and the extent of liability of its members. It should also provide details about the subscribers to the Memorandum. In addition to these requirements, the Companies Act mandates certain compliances for private companies, such as rules regarding company names, Articles of Association, member details, share transferability, and other regulatory obligations. Private sector examples typically demonstrate these requirements in their Memorandum of Association, which includes the company's name (including "Private Limited"), registered office address, objectives, liability description of members, and subscriber details. The company must also disclose information about its Articles of Association, full-appointed member particulars, share transfer rules, and other statutory requirements.

Privileges of Private Companies

Private companies enjoy several privileges that distinguish them from public companies:
  1. Minimum Director Requirement: Only two directors are required to form a private limited company, offering flexibility in management structure.
  2. Annual General Meeting Reports: Unlike public limited companies, private companies are not obligated to prepare annual general meeting reports, simplifying administrative requirements.
  3. Independent Directors: There is no mandate for private companies to appoint independent directors, allowing more control over board composition.
  4. Director Disqualification: Private companies can disqualify a director based on additional grounds per their internal policies.
  5. Director Remuneration: They have the autonomy to offer directors higher remunerations and salaries than other types of companies, facilitating competitive compensation structures.

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Companies Act 2013 of Private Companies  FAQs

How is the governance of private companies structured?

Governance typically involves decision-making by shareholders and directors. While the governance structure is flexible, adherence to statutory requirements and fiduciary duties is mandatory.

Can a private company convert into a public company?

Yes, it is subject to compliance with legal requirements and approval from shareholders and regulatory authorities. Conversion involves alterations in the company's Articles of Association, share capital structure, and compliance with public company regulations.

What is a private company according to the Companies Act, 2013?

According to Section 2(68) of the Companies Act 2013, a private company is defined as a company that restricts the right to transfer its shares and limits the number of its members to 200 (excluding its employees). It also requires a minimum paid-up capital of Rs. 1 lakh or such higher amount as specified in its articles of association.
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