Define: Stated Capital

Stated Capital
Stated Capital
Quick Summary of Stated Capital

The input describes stated capital as the funds raised by a company through the sale of its shares of stock. It is also referred to as legal capital and typically matches the total value of the company’s outstanding shares. Certain states mandate that companies maintain this amount of money within the company to safeguard creditors. Stated capital serves as a significant indicator of a company’s financial well-being and is included on its balance sheet.

Full Definition Of Stated Capital

Stated capital, also referred to as legal capital, is the total amount of money obtained by a company through the sale of its stocks. It serves as the minimum capital required by law and is utilised to safeguard the company’s creditors in the event of bankruptcy. To illustrate, if a company sells 100 shares of stock at $10 per share, the stated capital would amount to $1,000 (100 shares x $10 per share). This sum is recorded as equity on the company’s balance sheet. Stated capital holds significance as it indicates the funds raised by the company from stock sales and ensures sufficient funds are available to fulfil debts in case of bankruptcy, thereby protecting the company’s creditors.

Stated Capital FAQ'S

Stated capital refers to the amount of capital that a company declares in its articles of incorporation or registration documents. It represents the initial investment made by the shareholders in the company.

Stated capital is typically determined by the company’s founders or initial shareholders at the time of incorporation. It is the amount of money or assets that they contribute to the company in exchange for ownership shares.

No, stated capital and paid-in capital are not the same. Stated capital represents the initial investment made by shareholders, while paid-in capital refers to the actual amount of money or assets that shareholders have contributed to the company.

In most cases, stated capital can be changed after incorporation through a formal process such as an amendment to the company’s articles of incorporation or a resolution passed by the board of directors and shareholders.

Having a low stated capital may limit the company’s ability to raise funds through the issuance of additional shares or to attract potential investors who may view a higher stated capital as a sign of financial stability.

The legal requirements regarding stated capital vary by jurisdiction, but in general, companies are required to accurately disclose their stated capital in their registration documents and financial statements.

In some jurisdictions, stated capital may be used to pay dividends or distributions to shareholders, but this is subject to certain legal and regulatory restrictions. It is important to consult with legal and financial advisors before using stated capital for this purpose.

If a company’s stated capital is not fully paid in, it may be subject to legal and financial penalties, and the company’s directors and officers may be held personally liable for any unpaid amounts.

In some cases, stated capital may be used as collateral for loans or other financial transactions, but this is subject to the terms and conditions of the specific transaction and the company’s governing documents.

To ensure compliance with stated capital requirements, it is important to work with legal and financial professionals who can provide guidance on the proper establishment and maintenance of stated capital, as well as compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

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Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

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