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Finding the right legal form

When starting a company, the choice of the legal form is a critical decision, as it has legal, financial, and tax effects. We explain the pros and cons of the different legal forms in Switzerland.

Choosing a legal form determines the legal framework for the company in the future, and there are numerous factors to consider. So, it's helpful to ask yourself a few questions in advance:

  • Am I starting the company alone or with partners?
  • Am I willing to risk my private assets?
  • How much capital do I have to start the company?
  • How much capital do I expect to need in the first few years of the business?
  • How quickly do I want the company to grow?

Sole proprietorships

This legal form is suitable for small businesses with personal activities. The administrative work is minimal and formation documents are not required. A sole proprietorship comes into being when a natural person starts up independent business activities. If the annual turnover exceeds CHF 100,000, an entry in the commercial register is required.

Collective enterprise

A collective enterprise is a partnership that is created upon conclusion of a partnership agreement by at least two partners. It is suitable for smaller companies with a high level of personal involvement. A collective enterprise must be entered in the Commercial Register and does not have its own legal personality, but can act in its own name.

Joint-stock company (AG)

A joint-stock company is a company with its own legal personality. Its liability is limited to the business assets. The legal form is suitable for nearly all profit-oriented entities.

Limited liability company (GmbH)

A limited liability company is suitable for smaller companies centered around individuals. All of the members are entitled and required to manage the company jointly unless the articles of incorporation stipulate otherwise.

Limited partnership

The limited partnership consists of at least one natural person who is liable without limitation (general partner) and at least one natural person or legal entity with limited liability (limited partner). It is a company form that is used in special cases – for example, when involving external investors. They are liable only up to the amount of the contribution known as the "amount of liability."

 

 

The business shares and the method of sharing profits are regulated by the partnership agreement. The limited partnership is not a legal personality in its own right, but it may act in its own name, initiate debt collection proceedings, and may itself be subject to such proceedings.

Key contracts and agreements for partners and owners

The partnership agreement

This agreement governs the relationship among several partners. When starting a collective enterprise, a partnership agreement is advisable in order to minimize the risk of conflict. Important: This contract should govern such conditions as the exit of a partner and the calculation of the enterprise value or value of the equity shares. 

The shareholders' agreement

The shareholders' agreement governs the relationship among multiple shareholders. It ensures clear rules among the shareholders. It is important to include provisions on the exit of a shareholder, among other things. At the time of the company formation, it should be decided who can acquire the shares, and for what price, when a shareholder exits. The shareholders' agreement should also define how the enterprise value is calculated and therefore how the share price is determined.