In the lifecycle of any private company, particularly in the early and growth stages, investors eventually seek to realise returns on their investment. A well-drafted Shareholders’ Agreement (SHA) plays a critical role in facilitating this by setting out the terms under which investors can exit the company. From trade sales to IPOs and put options,...
When startups and investors come together to fuel innovation and growth, the shareholders’ agreement (“SHA”) becomes one of the most important legal documents governing their relationship. It is more than just a contractual formality, it is the framework that defines how a company is owned, managed, and funded, and how value is eventually distributed. Among...
The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), in collaboration with the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) of the United Arab Emirates, provides a well-structured legal and regulatory framework for companies seeking to access capital markets in the UAE. Whether a company is incorporated locally as a public or private joint stock company, based in a free...
When drafting a shareholders’ agreement, one clause that often sparks intense negotiation is the one dealing with share transfers. Founders want to maintain control, early investors want to secure their position, and incoming investors seek flexibility. This is where two important legal tools come into play i.e. the Right of First Refusal (“ROFR”) and the...
A shareholders’ agreement is a cornerstone document in any privately held company. Whether you’re a founder launching a startup, an early investor, or a minority stakeholder, this agreement lays the legal and commercial foundation of your relationship with the company and fellow shareholders. It governs decision-making, share ownership, dispute resolution, and exit scenarios, all essential...
Incorporating a private limited company is a popular choice among Indian entrepreneurs due to the benefits of limited liability, separate legal identity, and access to funding. The process is governed by the Companies Act, 2013 and regulated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). Below is a step-by-step explanation of the incorporation process, structured under...
The advent of International Financial Services Centres (IFSCs) in India marks a transformative step in integrating global financial services with domestic regulatory oversight. GIFT City in Gujarat, India’s flagship IFSC, has been established not only as a financial gateway but also as a legal innovation aimed at attracting international business through a tailored regulatory regime....
India and Saudi Arabia, two of Asia’s economic powerhouses, have historically shared strong commercial ties, particularly in the energy sector. However, in April 2025, the two countries took a decisive step forward, signing a landmark agreement aimed at deepening cooperation in energy security, defence manufacturing, and strategic partnerships. This article explores the developments, their broader...
One of the most critical decisions in starting a business in India is choosing the right legal structure for the business. This choice has lasting implications for taxation, liability, ownership, and compliance requirements. This article outlines the most common types of business structures in India, their legal references and a brief overview of the incorporation...
The acquisition of shares in UAE exchange house licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE (“CBUAE”) is a multi-layered process that demands careful planning, regulatory insight, and meticulous legal documentation. Unlike typical corporate acquisitions, transactions involving exchange houses are subject to a more rigorous oversight framework. These financial institutions are central to the UAE’s...
