Before a partnership is formally established, founders can generally already operate in the name of the partnership. Understanding the nuances of this phase is crucial to avoid potential pitfalls. Operating During the Foundation Phase In company mailings and other communications, it is common practice to add the suffix i.G. (in Gründung), meaning “in the process […] more

So does a member of the board of directors need to be a shareholder in the company? more

The shareholder has a basic duty to pay in full his or her capital investment (Swiss Code of Obligations Art. 680 Para. I). Beyond that, further duties can be assigned by creating a shareholders’ agreement. IMPORTANT: Rights and duties under this kind of agreement only binds the partners among themselves not, however, the company. more

Political terms such as Eidgenossenschaft, Bund, eidgenössisch, Kanton, kantonal, Gemeinde, kommunal or other terms that may be interpreted as such are forbidden to be any part of your company name insofar that it could give the impression that the company has a public or official function ( Art. 6 Wappenschutzgesetz; SR 232.21). more

“The limited liability corporation is the greatest single discovery of modern times, even steam and electricity would be reduced to comparative impotence without it” (Nicholas Murray Butler, 1862-1947). more

Under Swiss law, there are four main legal forms of companies, each with distinct characteristics and advantages. Understanding these legal forms is essential for choosing the right structure for your business. Preferably, you establish or convert your company with STARTUPS.CH, which provides professional guidance before and after the foundation. Here is an overview of the […] more

Joint power of attorney means that somebody can only represent a company with signature of another person. This does not exist by rights. A notation in the Commercial Register is necessary, which explains, who with whom can represent the company. more

A ’Swiss Branch’ can be founded by both domestic and foreign companies. While the most common legal forms of the head office include an AG (PLC), GmbH (Ltd), or a cooperative, other legal forms are also permitted when founding a branch. This article will explore the various legal forms and requirements for establishing a branch […] more

Foreigners are generally not disallowed from founding a company in Switzerland. However, a distinction is made between persons from EU/EFTA-states and citizens of third countries. more

No, under the applicable law, the manager of a GmbH must not necessarily be a shareholder of the company. more