State any four demerits of Joint Stock Company.

The demerits of Joint Stock Company are as follows:

1. Rigid Formation : The formation of a joint stock company is lengthy, difficult and time consuming. There are many legal formalities for starting business. Promoters have to prepare documents like Articles of Association, Memorandum of Association, etc. A private company has to go through two stages in formation. A public company has to go through four stages in formation.

2. Delay in Decision Making Process : In company form of organization no single individual can make a policy decision. All important decisions are taken by Board of Directors. Decision taking process is time consuming. Business may lose opportunities because of delay in decision making. 

3. Lack of Secrecy : The management of companies remain in the hands of many persons. Everything is discussed in the meetings of Board of Directors. All important documents are available at registered office for inspection. Thus, there is no secrecy in business matters. 

4. Excessive Government Control: A large number of rules are framed for the working of companies. The companies will have to follow rules for internal working. The government tries to regulate the working of the companies because large public money is involved. In case regulations are not complied with, large penalties are involved.