The Bubble Act: A Deep Dive into Its Legal Definition and Legacy

Definition & Meaning

The Bubble Act is an English law enacted on June 9, 1720, aimed at curbing corporate fraud. It prohibited the formation of joint-stock companies unless they were granted a royal charter. The primary motivation behind the act was to protect the South Sea Company from competition for investors' funds. This statute was eventually repealed in 1825. The Bubble Act is also referred to as the Royal Exchange and London Assurance Corporation Act 1719, as it incorporated those companies under its provisions.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

(Hypothetical example) A group of investors in the early 18th century attempts to establish a joint-stock company to compete with the South Sea Company. Due to the Bubble Act, they are unable to proceed without a royal charter, which they do not possess.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Joint-stock company A business entity where different shares of stock can be bought and sold by shareholders. The Bubble Act restricted the formation of joint-stock companies without a royal charter.
Royal charter A formal document issued by a monarch granting rights or powers to an individual or organization. The Bubble Act required a royal charter for the legal formation of joint-stock companies.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in forming a business or exploring corporate structures, it's essential to understand the historical context of the Bubble Act. While the act is no longer in effect, studying its implications can provide valuable insights into current corporate regulations. Users can explore US Legal Forms for templates related to business formation and governance, which may help in navigating modern requirements.

Quick facts

  • Enacted: June 9, 1720
  • Repealed: 1825
  • Main Purpose: Prevent corporate fraud
  • Key Requirement: Royal charter for joint-stock companies

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

No, the Bubble Act was repealed in 1825 and is no longer applicable.