Swedish Corporate Law
Aktiebolag The Private Limited Company in Swedish Law
A private limited company (aktiebolag) is the standard corporate structure in Sweden. It requires minimum share capital, a board of directors, and triggers audit obligations at specified thresholds.
Aktiebolag (AB) is Sweden's form of private limited company, governed by the Swedish Companies Act (Aktiebolagslagen). Shareholders have limited liability; the company's debts are separate from personal assets. It is the most common structure for commercial enterprises in Sweden, from startups to established businesses.
Core Definition and Structure
An aktiebolag is a legal entity with its own liability and assets. Ownership is divided into shares. Shareholders invest capital but are not personally liable for the company's obligations. The company is managed by a board of directors and, if required, a CEO.
Minimum Capital and Formation Requirements
As of 2024, an aktiebolag must have a minimum share capital of SEK 50,000. This capital can be paid in cash or contributed as assets. The shares must be registered with the Swedish Companies Registration Office (Bolagsverket) before the company can conduct business. Formation typically takes one to two weeks.