Aktsiaseltsi

Aktsiaselts is the Estonian term for a joint-stock company. It is a legal form of business organization in Estonia that is governed by the Estonian Companies Act. An aktsiaselts is a legal entity separate from its owners, meaning it can own property, incur debts, and sue or be sued in its own name. The ownership of an aktsiaselts is divided into shares, and the liability of its shareholders is limited to the amount they have invested in the company.

The establishment of an aktsiaselts requires at least one founder, who can be a natural person or a legal entity. A minimum share capital is required, the amount of which is stipulated by law. The shares of an aktsiaselts can be transferred, which allows for changes in ownership. The management of an aktsiaselts typically involves a supervisory board and a management board. The supervisory board oversees the management board, while the management board is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the company.

Aktsiaselts are a popular choice for businesses in Estonia due to their limited liability provisions and the ease with which shares can be traded. They are often used for larger enterprises, including publicly traded companies. The structure provides a framework for attracting investment and facilitating growth. Shareholders are entitled to a portion of the company's profits in the form of dividends, as well as voting rights at general meetings.