Securities Premium Reserve Explained

Definition and Purpose

• A securities premium reserve is a special reserve account created when a company issues shares at a price higher than their par value.
• This premium represents the excess amount received over the nominal value of the shares.
• The purpose of this reserve is to maintain the capital structure's integrity and track the premium.

Accounting Treatment

• The premium amount is recorded in a separate account called "Securities Premium Reserve".
• This reserve is reflected in the company's balance sheet as an addition to share capital.
• The amount added to the par value is credited to the securities premium reserve.
• The reserve is not reflected on the profit and loss account (income statement), as it is an element of share capital. It does not impact profit directly.

Use of the Reserve

• The reserve is a part of the company's equity capital and can not be used for general operating expenses.
• Companies often use it for future share buybacks or as a safeguard against potential future losses.
• If the company decides to buy back previously issued shares, the securities premium can be used to offset any associated costs.
• It can also be used in future capital expenditure or expansion efforts.
• Reserves are a critical part of a company's financial health and stability.

Examples

• If a company issues 10,000 shares at a par value of $1 but receives $2 per share, there is a $1 premium per share to record on the securities premium reserve.
• A company using the securities premium reserve to buy back its own shares avoids the negative impact on Earnings Per Share (EPS).
• The reserve is a source of capital that can offset future losses or financing needs.

Differences from Other Reserves

• Unlike other reserves, the securities premium reserve is directly linked to share capital structure and does not represent accumulated profits or losses. It reflects a premium paid on the issue of shares, not a gain.
• This difference in nature distinguishes it from general reserves, which often are accumulated from profits or losses.

Restrictions on Use

• While the reserve can be used for specific purposes, its use is generally restricted to maintaining capital structure integrity and financing certain operations or initiatives. It is not a free-flowing reserve for any purpose.
• The specific limitations of using a securities premium reserve depend on the company's regulations or guidelines; these often differ by jurisdiction.