This podcast episode is the second in Clarkslegal’s five-part Shareholders’ Agreement miniseries, providing a practical introduction to one of the most important documents for business owners and investors. In this instalment, hosts Emma Docking and Jonathan Hayes, both senior solicitors in a corporate team, explore the key provisions commonly found in shareholders’ agreements.

In this episode, they cover:

The purpose of shareholders’ agreements and how they supplement a company’s articles of association.
How these agreements strike a balance between majority and minority shareholders, tailored to your business’s unique needs.
Key provisions such as ownership structure, decision-making, share transfer mechanisms (including pre-emption rights), and exit strategies.
Detailed explanations of drag along and tag along rights, which protect both majority and minority shareholders during a company sale.
The importance of planning for shareholder exits and leaver provisions, distinguishing between good and bad leavers and how their shares are treated.
The overall strategic and protective role of shareholders’ agreements in aligning expectations and minimising conflicts.

Contact our shareholder agreement experts

If you have questions about shareholders’ agreements or need advice tailored to your business, contact our experienced lawyers today to discuss how we can help protect your interests and strengthen your company’s governance.