A share certificate is a legal document that serves as evidence of share ownership in a company. It must be signed to be valid and to meet statutory requirements. Here’s what you need to know about who is required to sign a share certificate:

1. General Requirement

• Every share certificate issued by a company must be signed in accordance with company law and the company’s articles of association.

2. Signing Requirements According to the Companies Act 2006

• The Companies Act 2006 states that share certificates must be signed by:
  • Two company directors,
    OR
  • One director and the company secretary/witness
    OR
  • If there is only one director, that director alone may sign if a witness is present. 

3. Company’s Articles of Association

• Some companies adopt articles of association with further requirements or variations.
• Always check your company’s articles for details.
• Model articles generally adhere to the Companies Act 2006 provisions.

4. Electronic Signatures

• Inform Direct allows the certificates to be signed electronically or physically (hand signed).