What is a Joint Stock Company?

A Joint Stock Company is an organization where ownership is divided into shares that can be purchased or sold by individual shareholders. The shares are traded on stock exchanges. Based on the investment, these shareholders receive a percentage of ownership. This type of corporation is suitable for large-scale projects where one person is unable to afford the entire cost. Limited liability is provided to the shareholders of these companies; this means that their assets are secured in case the company faces any financial difficulty. Keep reading to learn about joint stock company meaning, the features of joint stock company, the types of joint stock company, along with the advantages and disadvantages of joint stock company.  

Features of Joint Stock Company 

After understanding the joint stock company meaning, let’s discuss the features of a joint stock company:  

• Limited Liability: In a joint stock company, the shareholders are only liable for the amount of investment that they have made in the company. 
• Independent Legal Entity: A joint stock company is legally independent of its shareholders. In simple words, it means it can own property, file, or defend legal actions. The members or shareholders of this company are not answerable to the business.  
• Constant Existence: Even if the shareholders or directors change, the company will continue to exist. A joint stock company can only be dissolved according to the prescribed legal procedures for due process. 
• Common Seal: In a joint stock company, there is an official seal that acts as the signature of the company for all legal documents. 
• Registration: A joint stock company needs to get registered if it wants to build trust among shareholders. Only after registration, the company will get the status of an independent legal entity.  
• Corporate Governance: In a joint stock company, shareholders select a board of directors who manage the company. A board of directors manages the operations and ensures that the company operates proficiently. 

Types of Joint Stock Company 

The main joint stock company types include Chartered Company, Statutory Company, and Registered Company. Each type differs in the formation, purpose, and legal framework. Each type is discussed in detail. 

Chartered Company 

A chartered company is formed under a special charter granted by a ruler or government. This charter defines the company’s rights and responsibilities. Such companies were more common in earlier times and may receive specific operational privileges. 

Statutory Company 

A statutory company is created through a special law passed by the legislature. Its duties, powers, and structure are clearly stated in that law. These companies often provide public services or manage important national resources. 

Registered Company 

A registered company is formed by registering under company law with the appropriate authorities. It follows standard legal procedures and operates according to the rules mentioned in its registration documents. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Joint Stock Company 

A joint stock company offers several benefits along with certain limitations. Some benefits and limitations are discussed below: 

Examples of Joint Stock Companies in India 

Following are the examples of joint stock companies in India: 

Conclusion 

A joint stock company meaning is an entity that allows the ownership to be divided into tradable shares. This form of the company provides great advantages to its shareholders, like limited liability and the capacity to raise significant profits. Many large companies found this structure profitable because of its flexibility and unique governance structure. Joint stock companies also have some drawbacks, like the formation is very complex and there is no confidentiality in a joint stock company. Before investing in a joint stock company, investors should do their research properly using tools like an online trading app to track performance and make informed decisions.