Aktiebolagsrätten

Aktiebolagsrätten, or Swedish company law concerning limited liability companies, governs the formation, operation, and dissolution of aktiebolag (limited liability companies) in Sweden. This area of law is primarily codified in the Swedish Companies Act (Aktiebolagslagen).

The core principle of an aktiebolag is limited liability, meaning the shareholders' personal assets are protected from the company's debts and obligations. This structure encourages investment by reducing personal risk. The law outlines various types of aktiebolag, most notably private limited companies (privat aktiebolag) and public limited companies (publikt aktiebolag). Public companies have stricter requirements, including a higher minimum share capital and the ability to offer shares to the public.

Key aspects covered by aktiebolagsrätten include the requirements for establishing a company, such as minimum share capital, articles of association, and registration with the Swedish Companies Registration Office (Bolagsverket). It also details the rights and responsibilities of shareholders, the roles and duties of the board of directors and managing director, and rules regarding company meetings and financial reporting. Furthermore, aktiebolagsrätten addresses issues like mergers, demergers, and the liquidation of companies, ensuring a structured process for these significant corporate events. The overarching aim is to provide a clear legal framework that fosters trust and facilitates business activity.