- Securities Register
Securities Register
What is a securities register?
A securities register is an official record that lists all the securities issued by a company, most commonly shares. It includes details about who owns these securities, how many they hold, and when they were issued or transferred.
In South Africa, every company that issues shares is legally required to maintain a securities register. It forms part of the company’s internal records and is essential for tracking ownership, resolving disputes, and meeting legal obligations under the Companies Act.
What information must be recorded in a securities register?
A valid securities register typically includes:
- The name and ID or registration number of each shareholder
- The number and class of shares or securities they hold
- Dates of issue, transfer, or cancellation
- Details of any restrictions, encumbrances, or pledges
This register must be kept at the company’s registered office or another accessible location, and must be made available to shareholders and regulators upon request.
Is a securities register the same as a share register?
Yes – for most private companies in South Africa, the terms securities register and share register are used interchangeably, since shares are the only type of security they issue. However, if a company issues other securities like debentures or options, these must also be included in the securities register.
Maintaining an up-to-date register is critical for compliance, and it connects directly to your Beneficial Ownership disclosures.
Need help managing your ownership records properly?
Govchain can help you add or update your Beneficial Ownership Register – ensuring your securities register and shareholder disclosures meet CIPC’s legal requirements.