Learning from Athletics South Africa’s Deregistration: Why Every Business Must Stay Current with CIPC Annual Returns & Beneficial Ownership Filings
In February 2025, Athletics South Africa (ASA) made headlines when it was officially deregistered by the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) for failing to file its annual returns for two consecutive years. This oversight — codified in Government Gazette Publication 2025‑299 — led to ASA losing its legal personality and jeopardising funding for events, […]
How to convert an Annual Return Deregistration into a Voluntary Liquidation with CIPC
When a company fails to submit its annual returns for two consecutive years, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) initiates an ‘Annual Return Deregistration’ process. This means the company is in the process of being deregistered due to non-compliance. However, if the business owner wishes to formally wind up the company through a ‘Voluntary […]
CIPC deregistering 500 000+ Non-Compliant Companies and Close Corporations
In a recent move to enforce compliance, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) has issued a stern warning to companies and close corporations that have neglected their Annual Returns (AR) and Beneficial Ownership (BO) declarations. Through Notice 60 of 2024 and an accompanying media statement, the CIPC announced its intention to deregister over 500,000 […]
CIPC Annual Returns: A Comprehensive Guide for South African Businesses
Learn everything about CIPC annual returns, including filing requirements, deadlines, and consequences of non-compliance. Essential information for South African businesses.
Analysing CIPC’s Annual Return Submissions: Insights from 2023/24 Data
The 2023/24 financial year saw an interesting shift in the compliance landscape, particularly regarding submitting annual returns to the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC). The newly released statistics, summarized from the CIPC Annual Report, offer key insights into trends in on-time submissions, penalties for late filings, and the overall financial implications of annual return […]
How to Remove a Deceased Director from CIPC: A Step-by-Step Guide
Dealing with the death of a company director is a challenging time, and amidst the personal grief, there are critical legal steps that must be taken to ensure the company remains compliant with regulatory requirements. One of these essential steps is removing the deceased director from the records of the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission […]
SARS Tightens Regulations on Public Officers for Companies in South Africa
Learn about the implications of SARS’ proposed changes regarding the appointment of public officers for companies.
Compliance Champions: Identifying and Empowering Compliance Leaders in Your Organisation
Regulatory compliance is more critical than ever. Organisations must ensure they adhere to a myriad of regulations and standards to avoid penalties, maintain their reputation, and foster a culture of integrity. One effective strategy for achieving this is identifying and empowering compliance champions within the organisation. These individuals serve as role models, promote compliance initiatives, […]
Global Trends in Beneficial Ownership Transparency
This article explores the growing movement for beneficial ownership transparency (BOT). Learn how BOT is combating financial crime, boosting accountability, and what the future holds for this critical initiative.
Can a Minor be a Company Director or Shareholder in South Africa?
Understand the legal landscape surrounding minors as shareholders and directors in South African companies. Explore options like trusts, challenges in exercising rights, and compliance with the Companies Act. Get insights for protecting minor shareholders’ interests.
