Co-operative or company? A Maltese comparative analysis

Abstract

The co-operative and the limited liability company (LLC) are two corporate models which have existed side by side in several economies, including that of the European island-state of Malta. Yet, as elsewhere, misconceptions in Malta remain rife, acting as a hindrance to Maltese business promoters in their selection of the appropriate model for their business activity. This is clearly evidenced by the far higher number of LLCs than co-operatives active within the Maltese economy, and calls for a clarification of the relative advantages of both business models. [Excerpt]