Kompanya

Kompanya, or company, is a legal entity formed to conduct business activities, producing goods or delivering services for profit. It is typically owned by individuals or groups, and may operate under various legal forms that determine ownership, liability, and governance.

A company is often treated as a separate legal person from its owners. This includes the ability to enter contracts, own property, sue or be sued, and continue despite changes in ownership. Depending on the form, owners' liability is limited to their investment, or can be joint and several.

Formation and regulation: Most jurisdictions require registering with a government authority, establishing a name, submitting articles of incorporation or memorandum of association, selecting a governing structure, and obtaining any necessary licenses. Ongoing obligations typically include annual filings, financial reporting, tax compliance, and adherence to corporate governance standards.

Common forms include sole proprietorship, partnership (general and limited), corporation, cooperative, and nonprofit. Each form varies in liability, taxation, management control, and potential for growth. Corporations generally provide limited liability to shareholders, while partnerships may expose partners to greater personal liability.

Role in the economy: Companies drive economic activity by investing capital, creating jobs, innovating, and producing goods and services. They participate in supply chains, pay taxes, and may pursue strategies such as mergers and acquisitions, expansion, or restructuring. Corporate governance aims to balance the interests of owners, managers, employees, customers, and the broader community.

Lifecycle: A company may grow, merge, split, or be dissolved. Insolvency or bankruptcy proceedings may occur if obligations exceed assets, followed by liquidation or reorganization to satisfy creditors.