| | Partnership | Public limited company |
| Formation | it is simpler, not requiring lots of documentation.It is cheaper and easier to form.It requires deed of partnership. | Cumbersome, requiring lots of documentation and article of association to secure incorporation.It is expensive and takes time to form.It is owned by shareholders through subscription of shares. |
| Ownership | It is owned by the partnersownership is not separated from the management | Owners are separated from management of the business |
| Raising of capital | Capital is raised through the funds contributed by partners | Capital is raised through subscription of shares |
| Liability | The liability of each partner is not limited | The liability of each partner is limited to the amount invested |
| Transfer of shares | Partnership does not deal with shares, so nothing to transfer. | Shares are transferable from one shareholder to another on the stock exchange market |
