The optimal legal form for your company: LLC or PLC?

Decide between LLC and PLC as the optimal legal form for your company. Our comprehensive analysis will help you make the right choice.

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In the world of company formation, prospective business owners are often faced with a crucial question: should the company be founded as a LLC or PLC? This decision can have a significant impact on the legal structure, liability and tax aspects of the company. In this article, we will explain the differences between these two legal forms in detail to help you make your decision.

The LLC (limited liability company)

The LLC is one of the most popular legal forms for small and medium-sized companies in Switzerland. Here are some important features and advantages:

1. Limited liability

The LLC offers founders protection from personal liability for company debts. This means that your personal assets are not at risk if the company gets into financial difficulties.

2. Flexibility in company management

The LLC allows flexibility in the management of the company. You can organize the management according to your own ideas and do not necessarily have to hire external directors.

3. Tax advantages

The LLC offers tax advantages, particularly with regard to taxes on profits. Through clever tax planning, you can minimize your tax burden and promote the growth of your company.

The PLC (public limited company)

The PLC is another popular legal form for companies in Switzerland. Here are some of its main features and advantages:

1. Raising capital

The PLC makes it possible to raise capital from external investors through the sale of shares. This can be an effective way to finance and expand your business.

2. Separation of ownership and control

In a PLC, shareholders and management can be separate from each other. This provides a clear separation of ownership and control and can promote the long-term stability of the company.

3. Stock exchange listing

A PLC can be listed on the stock exchange, which offers additional opportunities for raising capital and increasing the value of the company.

Which legal form is right for you?

The choice between a LLC and a PLC depends on a number of factors, including your long-term business goals, how much capital you plan to raise and your risk appetite. There is no clear-cut answer, as each legal form has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Conclusion

The decision of whether to set up your business as a LLC or PLC is an important one and should be well thought out. It is advisable to consult with an experienced business consultant or lawyer to make the best choice for your specific situation. Ultimately, the choice of legal form depends on your individual goals and needs, and it can have a significant impact on the long-term success of your business.