Changes to the rules regarding business names came into effect on 31st January 2015. The changes were outlined after a government consultation, which asked for views on the existing rules relating to names of registered companies that are similar to those of other businesses and words and expressions that were previously deemed ‘sensitive’. Those embarking on new company formations may wish to register several variations on their name to stop their competitors taking advantage of the new rules. Continue reading
Consultation launched on possible ISDX Growth Market rule changes
Companies with an interest in the CREST share registrar services of London Registrars may also read with interest the news of the launch of a market consultation by the London-based stock exchange, ICAP Securities & Derivatives Exchange (ISDX). It concerns potential changes to the ISDX Growth Market Rules for Issuers and the ISDX Corporate Adviser Handbook. Continue reading
UK Corporate Governance Code updated by Financial Reporting Council
It will interest many of those firms benefitting from London Registrars’ business consultancy in London to learn that an updated version of the UK Corporate Governance Code was been issued by the Financial Reporting Council (FRC). The aim is to ensure that investors are significantly better informed on listed companies’ long-term health and the bar for risk management is also being raised. Continue reading
Keeping to the bare minimum requirements for company records
A key element of effective corporate governance will always be the keeping of appropriate company records. However, a balance must be struck between complying with legal requirements and not getting bogged down with red tape, to the expense of everyday business operations. It begs the question of what the bare minimum requirements are for company records. Continue reading
Third annual progress report into Women on Boards published
In February 2011, Lord Davies’ landmark review into Women on Boards was published, aimed at identifying the barriers preventing the greater presence of women in the boardroom, in addition to making recommendations to government and business on what actions could be taken to increase the proportion of women on corporate boards. Now, more than three years on, the third annual progress report on the matter has been published. Continue reading
Charity Commission identifies fraud and financial abuse as among biggest issues
Clients of firms such as company secretarial specialists, London Registrars, who demand the highest standards of company compliance, will be interested to read that in the period from April 2012 to April 2013, fraud and financial abuse were particularly frequent problems in the charities sector. Continue reading
New Auditor Regulatory Sanctions Procedure and Guidance published by FRC
Directors looking to ensure the highest standard of corporate governance are sure to take an interest in the recent publication of the Auditor Regulatory Sanctions Procedure and Guidance by the Financial Reporting Council (FRC). Continue reading
Company websites to come under ICO scrutiny
Of all of the priorities that a director may have for corporate governance, ensuring that data protection laws are not breached by their company’s online privacy policy may not be the highest. However, that looks likely to change with the news that the Information Commissioners’ Office (ICO) is to begin examining company websites. Continue reading
Directors borrowing from their company subject to new rules
Companies wishing to ensure the highest standards of corporate governance are advised to pay close attention to new rules relating to company loans to directors. Previously, directors repaying such money within nine months of the end of their firm’s accounting period could avoid a tax charge. But in this year’s Budget came the announcement of new rules designed to combat what HMRC calls “bed and breakfasting” – the abuse of company loan rules. Continue reading
Amended first aid regulations now in force
For many new business owners, company formations can feel sufficiently bound in red tape without overly burdensome health and safety regulations also proving a cause for concern. Such businesses are therefore likely to welcome the latest news that as of 1 October 2013, they can now enjoy greater flexibility with regard to the management of their provision of workforce first aid, thanks to altered health and safety regulations. Continue reading