In India, a Nidhi Company is a type of non-banking financial institution (NBFI). Nidhi Companies, which operate as mutual benefit organizations, seek to instill thrift and saving practices among their members.
They are public limited corporations that only serve their members, who are both shareholders and depositors. Nidhi Companies collect deposits and make loans to members, encouraging financial cooperation among members.
Unlike other NBFCs, they cannot borrow externally and must rely primarily on funds produced from internal deposits. Nidhi Companies, which are regulated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, must follow the Nidhi Rules, which ensure openness and fair procedures.
Nidhi Companies assist to financial inclusion by extending lending facilities to small savers, with a minimum of 200 members in the first year and a predetermined net owned fund.
Registration as a Nidhi Company in India is required due to its particular function in developing financial inclusion and promoting a culture of thrift and saves. By registering as a Nidhi Company, an entity receives legal status as a mutual benefit society under the Companies Act of 2013. This classification enables the company to receive deposits from its members and extend loans to them, thereby contributing to community-based financial cooperation.
The registration procedure ensures that the Nidhi Rules are followed, ensuring transparent and responsible practices. As a registered Nidhi Company, it can reap the benefits of being a recognized non- banking financial institution, providing financial services inside a regulated framework.
The registration also provides members with a sense of security, knowing that the company operates within legal boundaries and is subject to regulatory scrutiny, improving depositor trust and confidence. Finally, becoming a Nidhi Company is not only a legal obligation, but also a strategic step toward fulfilling its purpose of economically empowering members through mutual financial support.
Limited liability shields a private limited company's shareholders' personal assets from the debts and obligations of the business. The financial risk is limited to the amount invested in the company.
A private limited business and its owners (shareholders) are two different legal entities. This means the company can own properties, enter into contracts, and sue or be sued in its own name.
When it comes to raising capital, private limited corporations typically have an easier time than other business formats. They have the ability to raise money from a variety of sources and issue shares to investors.
To attract and retain the best staff members, public limited firms provide stock options and other equity-based incentives. The chance to contribute to the company's growth and profit through stock-based pay may inspire employees.
Compliance during registration means adhering to regulatory requirements related to the formation of the Nidhi Company. This includes filing needed papers, obtaining approvals, and ensuring that the company's structure complies with legal norms.
Documents such as the Memorandum of Association (MOA), Articles of Association (AOA), and other necessary documentation must be submitted as part of the registration process. Compliance at this stage ensures that the information provided is accurate and fulfills legal criteria.
Directors must give their permission to perform in their duties, and professionals may be required to file compliance declarations. These procedures are part of the pre-registration compliance procedure.
After registration, a Nidhi Company must comply with statutory filing requirements. This includes filing annual returns, financial statements, and other documents with the Registrar of Companies (RoC).
Compliance with the Nidhi Rules under the Companies Act, 2013 is crucial. This involves adhering to regulations related to membership, capital requirements, lending, reporting, and other operational aspects.
The establishment and maintenance of strong internal systems is a continuous compliance activity. This guarantees fairness and transparency in the handling of loans, deposits, and other financial operations.
Regular board meetings must be conducted, and compliance involves documenting decisions made during these meetings. This ensures proper governance and adherence to legal requirements.
Compliance involves the issuance and maintenance of membership certificates to members, documenting their status as shareholders and depositors.
Appointment of statutory auditors and conducting regular audits are ongoing compliance activities to ensure financial transparency.
Regular filing of Form NDH-1 (Return of Statutory Compliances) and Form NDH-3 (Half-yearly Return) is part of ongoing compliance.
The board of directors must pass a resolution proposing the voluntary winding-up of the Nidhi Company.
The winding-up resolution is submitted to the members at a general meeting and must be adopted by a special resolution with a three-fourths majority.
The board must make a declaration of solvency stating that the company can pay off its debts in full within a specified time.
File the special resolution along with the declaration of solvency in Form MGT-14 with the Registrar of Companies (RoC).
If the company has creditors, their approval must be obtained for the proposed winding-up.
Within 30 days of passing the special resolution, submit all required forms to the RoC, including Form NDH-4 (Declaration by Nidhi Company for Cancellation of Registration).
The liquidator seizes possession of the business's assets, pays off its debts, and gives shareholders any leftover cash or assets.
Liquidate the assets and use the proceeds to settle outstanding liabilities.
Distribute the remaining assets among the members as per their entitlement.
Submit an application for the dissolution of the company to the RoC in Form FTE
If the RoC is satisfied, they will issue a dissolution order, and the company will be deemed dissolved from the date mentioned in the order.
If the Nidhi Company fails to comply with statutory requirements, regulatory authorities may issue a notice.
The company may be required to show cause why its registration should not be canceled.
If the regulatory authorities are not satisfied with the response, they may proceed to cancel the registration of the Nidhi Company.
Similar to voluntary closure, the company's assets are liquidated, and the proceeds are used to settle liabilities and distribute remaining assets among members.
Submit an application for the dissolution of the company to the RoC in Form FTE.
The RoC issues a dissolution order, leading to the company's deemed dissolution.