Authorization of the securities: Overview, definition, and example
What is authorization of the securities?
Authorization of the securities refers to the formal approval or permission granted by a company or entity to issue securities, such as stocks or bonds. This authorization typically comes from the company's board of directors or, in some cases, its shareholders. Without proper authorization, the company cannot legally issue the securities, which could lead to financial or legal complications.
For example, before issuing new shares of stock, a company must receive authorization from its board of directors. This ensures that the action is approved and complies with the company's governing documents and relevant regulations.
Why is authorization of the securities important?
Authorization of the securities is important because it ensures that the issuance of securities is legal and follows the necessary procedures. It provides transparency and accountability, as the entity issuing the securities is doing so with the approval of the proper governing bodies. This process also protects investors by ensuring that securities are issued with full compliance to legal and regulatory requirements.
Without proper authorization, securities might be issued fraudulently, leading to potential lawsuits or penalties. Additionally, improper authorization can result in the invalidation of securities, causing financial instability for the company and investors.
Understanding authorization of the securities through an example
Imagine a corporation, XYZ Inc., wants to raise money by issuing new shares of stock. Before any shares are sold, XYZ Inc.'s board of directors must approve the issuance of the stock in a meeting. If the board authorizes the issuance, the company can then proceed with offering the shares to investors. Without this formal authorization, the company cannot legally offer the new shares for sale, even if the shareholders support the decision.
In another example, a company may want to issue bonds to fund a new project. Before the bonds can be sold, the company's board must approve the bond issuance. This ensures that the company is not overextending itself or violating any financial agreements.
An example of an authorization of the securities clause
Here’s how a clause like this might appear in a contract:
“The Company shall not issue any securities without first obtaining the appropriate authorization from its Board of Directors or shareholders, as required by applicable law.”
Conclusion
Authorization of the securities is a crucial step in the legal process of issuing stocks, bonds, or other financial instruments. It ensures that the company is following proper procedures, maintaining legal compliance, and safeguarding the interests of investors. Proper authorization is key to preventing legal issues and ensuring the legitimacy of the securities being issued.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.