While shareholders collectively own a company, they do not control the day to day running of it. That’s the role of the company directors. In exchange for their investment, however, shareholders have a range of rights that…
How can a company use different share classes?
In many companies, it is appropriate – and certainly administratively easier – for all of the shares to be of the same class. This ensures that all shareholders can vote at shareholders’ meetings and share…
What is a non-executive director?
In recent years the number and importance of non-executive directors (or ‘NEDs’) in UK companies has grown significantly. While the focus for discussion of non-executive directors is often on listed companies, their value…
What is a company’s registered office address?
A registered office address is the official address of a company (or limited liability partnership) registered with Companies House. By virtue of Section 86 of the Companies Act 2006, every UK company must always have a registered…
What is a sole trader?
A sole trader is a self-employed person who owns and runs their own business as an individual. A sole trader business doesn’t have any legal identity separate to its owner. That leads many to say that as a sole trader you…
What is a limited company?
A limited company is a form of business which is legally separate from its owners (typically shareholders) and those appointed to run it (directors). Its defining characteristic is limited liability, which we explain below.…
2024 Review
of UK Company Formations
Read our comprehensive review of UK company formations in 2023, year-on-year growth rates and breakdown by county. This detailed insight is provided in the form of easy to understand infographics available for sharing through social media and on your own website