Shelf Company

Also known as a Ready-Made Company or Vintage Company.

A company that previously has been incorporated with designated capital and registration cost paid. It is then placed on an inactive basis, with annual registration, capital and stamp duty fees paid. However, shares are held in bearer form and the directors and officers substituted at the time the company is taken off the shelf and becomes active.

This is often the fastest way to obtain an offshore company since they are fully formed and available instantly. Individuals and corporations that go offshore may also want to demonstrate that their company has been in existence for several months or years. Once a shelf company is purchased, bank and brokerage accounts may be set up in the name of the company, allowing a client to do banking, investing and business in the name of the shelf company.