Britannica AI Icon

private corporation

civil law
Also known as: close corporation, private company

Quick Summary

A private corporation is a business entity that is not publicly owned. It is organized for the profit of its members, and its entire interest is not held by the state. Corporations possess distinct assets separate from those of their members and have a formal management system. They can be sued and have rights, such as free speech. In civil law systems, a distinction is made between public and private companies, though both function similarly in practice. Private companies are often formed when there's no need to solicit public investment and may be similar to incorporated partnerships where directors hold most shares. The principle of limited liability, established by the 15th century, means individuals are only liable for the amount they invested in the company, encouraging investment.12345

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.