Protecting minority shareholders against the abusive restrictions on profit distribution

Abstract

Distribution of yearly profits in companies raises complex issues pertaining to the statutory framework of shareholder relationship. Under Article 191 and 347 of the Code of Commercial Partnerships and Companies the above matter is decided by the resolution passed at the annual general meeting and (as such) is left to the discretion of the controlling members. Notably, the general meeting can retain profits in the company or declare low dividends. However, in light of the Supreme Court’s decisions, the above resolution, reflecting only the interests of the majority, can be viewed as oppressive for the minority and consequently set aside in court. The consequences of the court ruling are, nonetheless, unclear, as it does not imply an obligation on the company to pay higher dividends. Some authors go as far as to argue that the ruling itself is of no value to the claimants and that the majority rule in Polish company law is unconditional and absolute.
The article explores the above issue in the context of a public limited company and attempts to answer the question of whether the minority shareholders can protect their rights in the event of excessive (abusive) restrictions on profit distribution.