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Understanding Share Capital and Paid-Up Capital: A Guide for Company Owners

Updated: May 17

15 May 2024

Editor: ET



When it comes to running a successful business, understanding the intricacies of share capital and paid-up capital is crucial. These financial concepts form the foundation of a company's structure and play a significant role in its operations.

In this article, we'll delve into what share capital and paid-up capital are, how they are calculated, and their implications for businesses.


What is Share Capital?

Share capital refers to the total amount of money that shareholders have committed to the company in exchange for shares. It represents the initial investment made by shareholders and forms part of the company's equity. Share capital can be issued with or without full payment from shareholders, depending on the company's needs and regulations.


Understanding Paid-Up Capital

Paid-up capital, on the other hand, refers to the portion of the share capital that shareholders have actually paid to the company. It represents the amount of money that the company has received from shareholders in exchange for the shares issued to them.


Example Illustration:

Let's consider an example to illustrate how share capital and paid-up capital work in practice:


Company X issues 100,000 shares at $1 each to its shareholders.


This brings the issued share capital to $100,000. However, the shareholders have only paid up 50% of their shareholding, which means that the paid-up capital is $50,000 and the unpaid share capital is $50,000.


If the shareholders pay the remainder 50% of their shareholding, then the company’s paid-up capital will become $100,000 and the unpaid share capital will be $0.


Importance of Share and Paid-Up Capital

Understanding share and paid-up capital is essential for several reasons:

  1. Legal Compliance: Companies are often required by law to maintain a minimum amount of share capital, which varies depending on the jurisdiction.

  2. Credibility: Having a substantial paid-up capital can enhance the company's credibility and attractiveness to investors and creditors.

  3. Membership Benefits: In jurisdictions like Singapore, companies with paid-up share capital above a certain threshold may automatically become members of business federations like the Singapore Business Federation (SBF).


How Expede.com.sg Can Help

At Expede.com.sg, we understand the importance of proper financial management for businesses. Our team of experts can provide comprehensive advice and assistance on managing share capital, paid-up capital, and other financial matters.


For companies looking to navigate the complexities of share capital and paid-up capital, our services can provide invaluable support and guidance. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business thrive.

In conclusion, share capital and paid-up capital are fundamental aspects of company finance that every business owner should understand. By grasping these concepts and their implications, businesses can make informed decisions and lay a solid foundation for success.

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