Do I write my own LinkedIn posts?
People sometimes ask if I write my own LinkedIn posts. Yes, every post. Most of what I share comes from questions I encounter in my work, points of law that I’m curious about or articles I’ve read recently. Writing helps me clarify my thinking, reveal what I thought I knew …
Should departing directors and employees keep their shares?
In closely held companies, especially startups, founder-led businesses, and family-owned businesses, control over the shareholder base is critical. One common concern is that individuals who are no longer actively involved, such as former directors or employees, may continue to influence major decisions through their shareholding. This is where compulsory transfer …
How to avoid a deadlock when two shareholders cannot agree on the future of the company?
There are two shareholders. One shareholder wants to undertake an initial public offering (IPO) and listing of the company, while the other doesn’t. Without the right legal structure, this kind of disagreement can slow down the company or create a fallout between shareholders. The following are two practical legal tools …
Are you passionate about what you do?
“Are you passionate about what you do?” I was asked. Honestly? It’s one of those questions I have always struggled to answer. A million thoughts ran through my mind. Who can be passionate about what they do 24/7? Define “passionate”. Is it the kind that lights you up every morning? …
Plan the exit before investing as a shareholder
When investing in a company, whether as a founder, co-founder, or strategic investor, most people focus on the business plan, the valuation and the growth potential. One question that is often overlooked: How can a shareholder exit this company, and under what terms? Share transfers and shareholder exits often happen …
Structuring shareholding in companies
Structuring shareholding affects shareholders’ control, rights and exit. The type of shares issued determines: · Who makes decisions · Who gets paid (and when) · Who gets what rights Below is a concise overview of two type of shares and how they serve different purposes: Ordinary Shares The most commonly issued type of …
Getting into the details to make a deal work
A big part of my role as a corporate lawyer has been listening to clients explain the commercial terms they want in their deals. The next step is asking the right questions that make those terms work in the real world. Sometimes the parties have a general idea of the …
Founder Exit: Legal Checklist to Avoid Delays
Before buyers commit, their lawyers will conduct legal due diligence that may uncover gaps or non-compliance which delay the founder’s exit or reduce the price. This list helps founders/ sellers resolve common legal issues before they’re flagged in legal due diligence. Share Capital & Shareholders Have all past share allotments …
Founders selling for the first time need more than high-level legal advice
Some founders selling their businesses for the first time are not sure where legal advice is needed or how deep that advice should go. In past deals where I acted for buyers, I have seen: – A founder who asked their lawyer for a “high-level review” of sale and purchase …
When do you need a shareholders’ agreement?
It should be before there’s conflict, not after. The ideal time is: • when the business is starting out; or • when there is a new shareholder. Without it, even strong relationships can break down when there are changes. I’ve seen it happen when one corporate shareholder changes management. The …