Here we tell you all about what a share register is, such as why you have a share register and when a share register must be established. 

What is a share register?

A share register is a legal document that contains information about the shareholders of a limited liability company, and how many shares each party owns. All limited companies are required to have a share register under the Swedish Companies Act (ABL).

Why do you have a share register?

You have a share register to: 

• Provide a clear overview of the ownership structure of the company.
• ensuring that shareholders' rights are respected, such as dividends and voting rights at general meetings
• Act as legal proof of the company's ownership structure, which is important in disputes and share transfers.
• Contribute to increased transparency for shareholders.
• Make sure your company complies with laws and regulations on company ownership.

When to set up a share register?

A share register must be kept from the moment the company is founded and shares are issued. Once the share register is established, the company is responsible for continuously updating it with new information on the ownership structure as soon as it changes. 

Example of what a share register might look like

A share register must contain information on: 

• Name and personal or corporate identity number of the shareholder.
• Postal address for shareholders.
• How many shares each party owns.
• the identification of the shares, in particular if the sequence of numbers is applicable
• The class to which each share belongs if the company has several types of shares.
• Date of entry in the share register for acquisitions and transfers of shares.
• Whether a share certificate has been issued and if so, when.

Read more: What is a business angel?

Should you have a digital or physical share register?

Most limited companies have a digital share register by then:

• It is more secure and reduces the risk of documents being lost, while requiring secure handling to protect data.
• It enables easier and faster updates of ownership information.
• It provides better internal accessibility and facilitates review and sharing with authorized stakeholders, such as investors and auditors.

Frequently asked questions

How long do you have to keep the share register updated?

The share register must be updated as long as the company is active. When the company is wound up, the share register must be kept for at least 10 years after the dissolution. 

When do you have to make changes to the share register?

Changes to the share register must be made immediately when the ownership structure changes, for example in the case of share transfers or if a shareholder changes address or name. 

Which companies must have a share register?

All limited companies must have a share register, including startups which are registered as limited companies. Companies that are not limited liability companies are not required to have a share register. 

Do unlisted companies have to have a share register?

Yes, all limited companies, including unlisted, must have a share register.  

What does it mean if the share register is managed by Euroclear?

When Euroclear manages the share register, it means that the company's shares are registered electronically in one of Euroclear's systems, replacing the traditional, manual share register. This is common for listed limited liability companies but can also be used by larger unlisted companies who want a safer and more efficient way of managing their shareholding. This also enables shareholders to own their shares in a share depository with Avanza or Nordnet, for example.