what is company incorporation? state the main features and advantages of a company being incorporated

Company incorporation is the process of legally forming a corporate entity as a separate legal entity from its owners. This process is governed by the corporate laws of the country where the company is incorporated.

Main Features of a Company Incorporation:

1. Separate Legal Entity: Once a company is incorporated, it becomes a separate legal entity. This means it has its own legal rights and obligations, and can sue or be sued in its own name.

2. Limited Liability: The liability of the shareholders of an incorporated company is limited to the amount of capital they have invested in the company. This means that the personal assets of the shareholders are protected in the event of the company's insolvency.

3. Perpetual Succession: An incorporated company has perpetual succession. This means that the company continues to exist even if the shareholders change, die or become insolvent.

4. Transferability of Shares: The shares of an incorporated company are freely transferable, subject to certain conditions.

5. Common Seal: An incorporated company has a common seal, which acts as the official signature of the company.

Advantages of a Company Being Incorporated:

1. Limited Liability: As mentioned above, the liability of the shareholders is limited to their investment in the company. This protects the personal assets of the shareholders.

2. Raising Capital: It is easier for an incorporated company to raise capital as it can issue shares to the public.

3. Perpetual Succession: The company continues to exist irrespective of the changes in the shareholders.

4. Professional Management: The management of the company is in the hands of professionals who are guided by the board of directors.

5. Ownership and Management: The ownership and management are separate in an incorporated company, which allows for more efficient management.