The minimum number of members (shareholders) required to form a public limited company can vary by jurisdiction. The regulations are typically outlined in the company law or corporate legislation of the specific country where the company is being established. Here are a few examples to illustrate the variability:

1. United States (USA):

   • In the United States, there is no specific minimum number of shareholders required to form a public company. A company can go public with just one shareholder. However, once a company is publicly traded on a stock exchange, it will likely have numerous shareholders who buy and sell its shares on the open market.

2. United Kingdom (UK):

   • In the UK, a public limited company (PLC) must have at least two shareholders. While it’s technically possible to have only two shareholders, in practice, most public companies have a larger number of shareholders due to the nature of public trading on the stock exchange.

3. India:

   • In India, a public company must have a minimum of seven shareholders. These shareholders can be individuals or entities. This requirement is outlined in the Companies Act, 2013.

4. European Union (EU):

   • The EU does not dictate a specific minimum number of shareholders for public companies. Instead, it allows member states to establish their own rules and requirements regarding the formation and governance of public companies.

It’s crucial to refer to the company law or corporate legislation of the specific jurisdiction where the public limited company is being formed. Legal and financial professionals familiar with the regulations of that jurisdiction can provide guidance on the specific requirements and help ensure compliance with the relevant laws. Additionally, keep in mind that these rules and regulations can change, so it’s essential to stay informed about any updates or amendments to the laws.