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Called-Up Share Capital: Financial Term for Partially Paid Shares

A comprehensive overview of Called-Up Share Capital, covering its definition, historical context, key components, types, importance, examples, related terms, and frequently asked questions.

Definition

Called-Up Share Capital refers to the portion of the issued share capital of a company for which payment has been requested from shareholders. It involves shares that are partly paid, and the amount called up is the portion of the share’s price that shareholders have been asked to pay.

Types of Share Capital

  • Issued Share Capital: The total value of shares that a company has issued to shareholders.
  • Called-Up Share Capital: The portion of issued share capital that shareholders have been asked to pay.
  • Paid-Up Share Capital: The amount of money shareholders have fully paid for their shares.
  • Uncalled Share Capital: The portion of issued share capital that has not yet been called up by the company.

Detailed Explanations

When a company issues shares, they may not require the full payment of the share price immediately. Instead, they call up portions of the share price as needed. This allows the company to manage its capital requirements more efficiently and provides shareholders with flexibility in their financial commitments.

Mathematical Models

Called-Up Share Capital Formula:

$$ \text{Called-Up Share Capital} = \text{Number of Shares Issued} \times \text{Call Price per Share} $$

For example, if a company issues 1,000 shares with a call price of $5 per share, the Called-Up Share Capital would be:

$$ 1,000 \times 5 = \$5,000 $$

Importance

Called-Up Share Capital is crucial for understanding a company’s financial health and capital structure. It reflects the funds that the company has requested and can potentially call upon to meet its financing needs. This practice is common in industries where large-scale investments are required in stages.

FAQs

What happens if a shareholder does not pay a called-up share capital?

The company may take legal action, and the shares could be forfeited.

Can a company call up share capital in installments?

Yes, companies often call up capital in several installments based on their financial needs.

Is Called-Up Share Capital the same as Authorized Share Capital?

No, Authorized Share Capital is the maximum amount a company can issue, while Called-Up Share Capital is the portion shareholders have been asked to pay.
Revised on Monday, May 18, 2026