Investors and shareholders come in many different categories—from professional players such as investment companies, funds, and financial institutions to angel investors, investor groups, retail investors, and those who fall into the “friends & family” category.

More and more people are being asked—or are exploring opportunities—to invest in startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, publicly traded companies or those listed on alternative marketplaces, or businesses raising capital via crowdfunding.

Investments are made for a variety of reasons, often because the investor knows the founder personally or has other reasons to support the venture. Others are looking to diversify their portfolios and try alternatives to savings accounts or real estate investments.

For many, the motivation is to help friends or family get their business off the ground. For others, it’s about the dream of financial freedom, early retirement, or simply the desire to put their savings to work to achieve higher returns than interest from a savings account.

SKARP offers legal advice and services to both professional and private investors, as well as shareholders and companies, at all stages—from startups to well-established businesses.

Relevant topics and services include support, legal advice, negotiations, and the drafting of a wide range of agreements and corporate actions. Examples include shareholders’ agreements, partnership agreements, investment agreements, capital increases and reductions, shareholder disputes, and liability issues such as director’s liability.