osakeyhtiömuoto

An osakeyhtiömuoto refers to a limited liability company structure in Finland. This is the most common form of business entity in the country. The term directly translates to "share company form" or "limited liability company form."

In an osakeyhtiö, the liability of the owners, known as shareholders, is limited to the amount of capital they have invested in the company. This means their personal assets are generally protected from business debts and liabilities. Osakeyhtiö can be either a private limited company (osakeyhtiö, often abbreviated as Oy) or a public limited company (julkinen osakeyhtiö, abbreviated as Oyj). The distinction primarily lies in the ability to offer shares to the public.

To establish an osakeyhtiö, there are specific legal requirements, including minimum share capital, which varies depending on whether it's a private or public company. The company's operations are governed by a board of directors and managed by a managing director. Annual financial statements must be prepared and filed, and an auditor is typically required for larger companies. The osakeyhtiö structure offers a clear framework for business operations, investment, and transfer of ownership, making it a popular choice for a wide range of businesses in Finland.