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What is Authorized Capital?
Authorized capital, also known as registered capital or nominal capital, is the maximum amount of share capital that a company is authorized to issue to shareholders. It is specified in the company’s memorandum of association.
Reasons to Increase Authorized Capital
Future Growth: To raise more funds for expansion or development.
Attract New Investors: To facilitate the entry of new shareholders.
Financial Stability: To improve the financial structure of the company.
Steps to Increase Authorized Capital
Board Resolution:
- The board of directors must approve the increase in authorized capital. A board meeting should be convened, and a resolution should be passed.
Shareholder Approval:
- After the board resolution, a general meeting (either an Annual General Meeting or an Extraordinary General Meeting) is required to obtain the shareholders’ approval. A special resolution is typically needed, which must be passed by a specified majority (usually 75%).
Amendment of Memorandum of Association:
- Once the shareholders approve the increase, the company must amend its memorandum of association to reflect the new authorized capital. This requires the drafting of a new clause regarding capital.
Filing with Regulatory Authorities:
- The company must file the amended memorandum and other necessary documents with the relevant regulatory authority (e.g., Companies Registrar). This usually includes:
- Form for increasing authorized capital.
- Copy of the board and shareholder resolutions.
- Amended memorandum and articles of association.
- The company must file the amended memorandum and other necessary documents with the relevant regulatory authority (e.g., Companies Registrar). This usually includes:
Payment of Fees:
- There may be filing fees associated with increasing authorized capital, which must be paid at the time of filing.
Issuance of New Share Certificates (if applicable):
- If new shares are issued as part of the increase in capital, new share certificates should be prepared for the new shares.
Potential Implications of Increasing Authorized Capital
- Dilution of Shares:
- If new shares are issued, existing shareholders may experience dilution of their ownership percentage, which can affect voting power and dividends.
Market Perception:
- The market may view the increase as a sign of growth potential, or it may raise concerns about financial stability. Proper communication can help mitigate negative perceptions.
Impact on Financial Ratios:
- The increase in authorized capital may affect financial ratios such as earnings per share (EPS) and return on equity (ROE). Investors may need to analyze these changes.
Attracting Investment:
- A higher authorized capital can signal to potential investors that the company is poised for growth and willing to take on new capital to fuel its operations.
Regulatory Scrutiny:
- Depending on the jurisdiction, significant increases in capital might attract scrutiny from regulators, particularly if there are concerns about corporate governance or transparency.
Documents Required to Increase Authorized Capital
- A certified true copy of the capital alteration resolution.
- Updated MoA with the Capital Clause changes.
- Updated AoA if it includes a new provision for capital increase.
- Any other optional documents, if required.
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