Cap Table

What are Cap Tables?

A cap table, short for capitalization table, is a document that outlines the ownership structure of a startup or early-stage company. It lists the company's securities, such as common shares, preferred shares, warrants, and who owns them. The purpose of a cap table is to provide a clear snapshot of "who owns what" in a startup.

Importance of Cap Table for a Startup?

Maintaining an accurate cap table is crucial for startups and early-stage companies. 

1. It helps to ensure that the company is complying with securities laws and regulations.
2. It also provides a clear picture of who owns what percentage of the company and helps to avoid disputes over ownership. 
3. Additionally, a well-maintained cap table can help to attract new investors and potential acquirers by demonstrating a transparent and organized ownership structure.

How to Manage a Cap Table?

Cap table management involves keeping track of changes in ownership, handling dilution, and ensuring that equity distribution and transfers are properly documented.

Updating Ownership Structure

• As a company grows and evolves, changes in ownership structure are inevitable. These changes can result from various events such as fundraising, share issuances, or acquisitions.
• This information includes the number of shares outstanding, the total number of shares issued, and the percentage of ownership for each shareholder.

Handling Dilution

• To manage dilution, it is essential to keep track of the number of shares issued and the percentage of ownership for each shareholder. This information can be used to calculate the impact of dilution on the ownership structure and to make informed decisions about future fundraising and share issuances

Equity Distribution and Transfers

• Equity distribution and transfers refer to the process of transferring ownership of shares from one shareholder to another
• To manage equity distribution and transfers, include the necessary legal documentation, such as stock purchase agreements, transfer agreements, and shareholder agreements