Minimum capital is a concept used in corporate law and banking regulation to stipulate what assets the organisation must hold as a minimum requirement. The purpose of minimum capital in corporate law is to ensure that in the event of insolvency or financial instability, the corporation has a sufficient equity base to satisfy the claims of creditors.
Corporate law
All public companies within the European Union are required to hold at least €25,000 in capital, although many countries go above this minimum requirement. The requirement is e.g. £50.000 in the United Kingdoms (England and Wales), of which at least 25% must be paid up (of the nominal amount and of any premium).
Banking regulation
Basel II
Capital Requirements Directive
Leverage (finance)