The transfer of shares involves changing the ownership of shares
from one shareholder to another. This process allows a shareholder
to sell or assign their ownership in a company to another person
or entity. It typically requires completing legal formalities,
including stock transfer forms, share certificates, and payment of
any applicable fees or taxes. Share transfers can occur
voluntarily, such as through a sale or gift, or involuntarily, for
instance, during a company acquisition or when shares are passed
on due to the shareholder’s death.
In the context of private limited companies, a significant feature
is the ability to transfer shares. Unlike public corporations,
shares in a private company can be traded based on company
records. However, the transfer of shares in a private limited
company may be subject to restrictions outlined in its Articles of
Association (AOA). Therefore, it is imperative to thoroughly
review the company's AOA before initiating any share transfer.
To effect the transfer of ownership of shares in a private limited
company from one shareholder to another, a formal share transfer
agreement is essential. This agreement details the terms of the
transfer, including the share price and any conditions that must
be fulfilled.
In essence, the process of transferring shares in a private
limited company involves executing a legally binding agreement
that specifies the transfer particulars and outlines the
responsibilities of both parties involved.
Procedure for Registration
Here is a refined and professionally worded outline of the steps
involved in transferring shares of a private limited company:
Obtain Transfer Deed Form:
Obtain the prescribed transfer deed form either from the company's
records or from the registrar of companies.
Complete Transfer Deed Form:
Fill out the transfer deed form accurately, including details such
as the names and addresses of the transferor and transferee.
Execution of Transfer Deed:
Ensure the transfer deed form is duly signed by both the
transferor and transferee.
Obtain Required Approvals
Obtain necessary approvals and signatures from the company's
directors and shareholders, adhering to the provisions set forth
in the company's articles of association.
Submission to Registrar:
Submit the completed transfer deed form to the registrar of
companies for stamping and registration.
Review and Registration:
The registrar of companies will review the transfer deed form.
Upon satisfaction with the form's compliance, the registrar will
stamp and officially register the transfer of shares..
Update Company Records:
Update the company's records to reflect the transfer of shares,
ensuring accuracy in shareholder details and ownership.
Issue New Share Certificate:
Issue a new share certificate in the name of the transferee to
formalize the transfer of shares.
Following these steps meticulously ensures the legal and proper
transfer of shares in a private limited company, in accordance
with regulatory requirements and company procedures.
Documents Required for Transfer of Shares
Notice from Transferor to Company :
The transferor notifies the company of their intention to
transfer shares, as per company regulations.
Board Resolution for Acknowledgement :
The company's board of directors convenes to acknowledge and
examine the transfer notice from the transferor.
Offer Letter from Company :
The company issues an offer letter to the existing
shareholders, presenting them with the opportunity to acquire
the shares being transferred. ity.
Objection Letter from Shareholders :
Existing shareholders may submit an objection letter to
express any concerns regarding the proposed share transfer.
Share Transfer Agreement (Form SH-4) :
The transferor and transferee execute a Share Transfer
Agreement in Form SH-4, duly stamped as per applicable stamp
duty regulations.
Issuance of Share Certificates :
Following approval and registration of the share transfer, the
company issues new share certificates to reflect the ownership
change.
Board Resolution for Share Transfer :
The board of directors passes a resolution to formally
authorize and document the transfer of shares in company
records.
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Transfer of Share FAQ's
What is the Transfer of Shares?
The transfer of shares is the process by which the ownership of shares in a company is transferred from one shareholder (the transferor) to another (the transferee).
Who can transfer shares?
Only shareholders of a company can transfer their shares to others, either privately or through the stock exchange if the company is publicly listed.
Can shares be transferred to a minor?
Yes, shares can be transferred to a minor, but the shares must be held through a legal guardian since a minor cannot enter into a contract.
Can shares be transferred freely in all companies?
No, the Articles of Association (AOA) of the company may restrict or impose conditions on the transfer of shares, particularly in private companies.
What is a Share Transfer Form (SH-4)?
SH-4 is a legal form used for transferring shares in a private limited company, containing details of the transferor, transferee, and the number of shares being transferred.
Can shares be transferred without the company’s approval?
In private companies, the transfer of shares typically requires the approval of the Board of Directors before it can be finalized.
What happens if the transfer of shares is not registered?
If the transfer is not registered, the transferee will not become the legal owner of the shares and will not be entitled to exercise shareholder rights.
Is there any stamp duty on the transfer of shares?
Yes, the transfer of shares in a private company requires payment of stamp duty, which varies based on the value of the shares and the state in India.
Can shares be transferred without a physical share certificate?
Yes, in dematerialized form (demat shares), transfer can happen electronically through the depository system, eliminating the need for physical share certificates.
What is the timeline for completing a share transfer?
The share transfer process typically takes around 2 to 3 weeks in private companies, as it requires board approval, document verification, and registration of the transfer.
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