Companies Act 2013, All sections, Rules & Forms
Introduction
The Companies Act 2013 represents a landmark in the evolution of corporate governance in India. Enacted with the aim of improving transparency, accountability, and overall corporate compliance, the Act brought with it significant changes to the way companies are incorporated, managed, and regulated in the country. This comprehensive guide is designed to provide a detailed, in-depth analysis of the Companies Act 2013, covering all its sections, rules, and forms in a simple, understandable language.
Over the years, the Act has not only reformed the legal framework surrounding companies but has also set new standards for corporate behavior, ensuring that businesses operate with a higher degree of responsibility and integrity. Whether you are a legal professional, a company director, an investor, or a student of corporate law, understanding the intricacies of the Companies Act 2013 is essential.
In this article, we delve into the background of the Act, outline its structure, and explore its various components. By interlinking sections within the page for seamless navigation, this guide aims to serve as a valuable resource for anyone looking to gain a thorough understanding of the Act’s provisions, from the basic principles to the detailed procedural aspects.
As you navigate through the article using the internal links provided in the Table of Contents, you will discover detailed explanations of each section, rule, and form prescribed under the Act. This detailed breakdown is intended to demystify the complex language of legal documents and provide clarity on how these regulations affect corporate operations in practical terms.
Overview of the Companies Act 2013
The Companies Act 2013 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that replaced the earlier Companies Act of 1956. Its formulation was aimed at making corporate governance more robust and ensuring that companies are managed in a transparent and accountable manner. The Act covers a wide range of aspects from the formation of companies, corporate governance, and investor protection to detailed provisions on mergers, winding up, and the roles and responsibilities of directors.
One of the primary objectives of the Act is to foster a culture of corporate accountability by establishing strict guidelines for financial reporting, disclosure norms, and regulatory oversight. The Act places significant emphasis on the rights and responsibilities of shareholders and mandates stringent compliance measures to prevent corporate fraud and mismanagement.
The structure of the Act is divided into various chapters and sections, each addressing a specific aspect of company law. From the fundamental definitions and incorporation procedures to the detailed mandates on mergers and amalgamations, the Act is designed to cover all possible facets of corporate management. This in-depth guide will help you understand each section in detail and how they interact to create a cohesive regulatory framework.
Furthermore, the Act also introduces a host of new concepts and terminologies, such as the “One Person Company” (OPC) and enhanced penalties for non-compliance. These additions reflect the changing dynamics of the corporate world and highlight the need for a modern legal framework that can adapt to new business challenges.
In the following sections, we will break down the Act into its key components and provide a thorough explanation of each part. This will enable you to understand not just the letter of the law, but also its practical implications and the impact it has on day-to-day corporate operations.
Detailed Explanation of All Sections
The Companies Act 2013 is comprised of numerous sections that cover a wide spectrum of corporate activities and procedures. In this section, we will discuss the major parts of the Act in a structured manner, explaining the key sections and their significance. For ease of navigation, the sections have been categorized based on their thematic relevance.
1. Preliminary Provisions
The initial part of the Companies Act 2013 lays the foundation for the entire legislation. It defines key terms, lays out the scope of the Act, and sets forth its applicability. This segment is crucial because it establishes the definitions that are used throughout the document, ensuring that there is no ambiguity in the interpretation of its provisions.
Key topics covered in this section include:
- Definitions of key terms such as "company", "director", "shareholder", and "secretary".
- The territorial jurisdiction of the Act and its application to different types of companies.
- The fundamental objectives and guiding principles behind the legislation.
By setting the stage with clear definitions and objectives, this section ensures that all stakeholders have a common understanding of the terms and concepts that will be referenced later in the Act.
2. Incorporation of Companies
One of the cornerstone features of the Companies Act 2013 is its detailed provisions on the incorporation of companies. This section outlines the process through which a new company is formed, detailing the necessary documentation, the roles of the subscribers, and the specific requirements that must be met for successful registration.
Some of the essential aspects of this section include:
- The application process for name reservation and registration.
- Required documents such as the Memorandum and Articles of Association.
- Minimum capital requirements, if any, and the role of promoters.
- Obligations regarding declarations, affidavits, and statutory forms.
The incorporation process under the Act is designed to be both rigorous and transparent. It ensures that all companies registered under the Act have met a baseline standard of compliance, which is essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring that companies operate in an orderly and lawful manner.
3. Management and Administration
Once a company is incorporated, the next major aspect addressed by the Act is its management and administration. This section provides detailed guidelines on the roles and responsibilities of the board of directors, the functioning of various committees, and the procedures for conducting board meetings and general meetings.
Topics covered include:
- The appointment, removal, and qualifications of directors.
- Requirements for board meetings, including quorum and voting procedures.
- The establishment of committees such as the Audit Committee and Nomination & Remuneration Committee.
- Guidelines on the disclosure of directors’ interests and related party transactions.
The intent behind these provisions is to ensure that the management of the company is conducted in a manner that promotes transparency and accountability. By clearly outlining the responsibilities of the board and its committees, the Act aims to prevent malpractices and ensure that the company’s affairs are managed in the best interest of its stakeholders.
4. Share Capital and Debentures
The provisions governing share capital and debentures form an integral part of the Companies Act 2013. This section explains the rules related to the issuance of shares, the maintenance of share registers, and the rights of shareholders. In addition, it lays out the regulations concerning debentures and other forms of borrowing by companies.
Some of the highlights of this section include:
- Procedures for issuing shares and the rights attached to different classes of shares.
- Guidelines on share transfer, forfeiture, and redemption.
- Regulations governing the issuance and management of debentures.
- Provisions ensuring the protection of investor interests in cases of dilution or mismanagement.
The detailed rules provided in this section are designed to protect the interests of both the company and its investors. By setting clear guidelines on the management of share capital and debentures, the Act aims to foster a fair and transparent market for securities, ensuring that all transactions are conducted with utmost integrity.
5. Accounts and Audit
Financial transparency is one of the key pillars of corporate governance. The Companies Act 2013 dedicates an extensive section to the maintenance of accounts and the auditing process. This part of the Act ensures that companies adhere to stringent accounting standards and that their financial statements provide a true and fair view of their operations.
Essential features of this section include:
- Mandatory preparation and filing of annual financial statements.
- Guidelines on the audit process, including the appointment and rotation of auditors.
- Standards for internal control systems and risk management practices.
- Provisions for the disclosure of financial information to stakeholders.
Through these measures, the Act ensures that companies maintain high standards of financial discipline. The audit requirements not only serve as a check on financial irregularities but also help in building a culture of accountability.
6. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
An important innovation introduced by the Companies Act 2013 is the mandate on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). This section requires certain classes of companies to spend a designated percentage of their profits on CSR activities. The objective is to ensure that companies contribute to the social and economic development of the communities in which they operate.
Key aspects of the CSR provisions include:
- Criteria for determining which companies are required to undertake CSR activities.
- The specified amount or percentage of profits that must be allocated for CSR.
- Guidelines for the planning, execution, and monitoring of CSR projects.
- Obligations to report on CSR expenditure and its impact in the annual report.
The CSR mandate reflects a broader shift towards socially responsible business practices. By mandating CSR, the Act encourages companies to take an active role in addressing societal challenges, such as poverty, education, and environmental sustainability. This not only helps in bridging the gap between corporate profits and community welfare but also enhances the company’s public image.
7. Mergers, Amalgamations, and Restructuring
With the changing landscape of business, mergers and acquisitions have become a common strategy for growth and expansion. The Companies Act 2013 provides a detailed framework for mergers, amalgamations, and corporate restructuring. This section outlines the legal procedures, necessary approvals, and the rights of stakeholders involved in such transactions.
The main features of this section include:
- Detailed processes for proposing, approving, and implementing mergers and amalgamations.
- Requirements for disclosures and obtaining consent from shareholders and creditors.
- Protections for minority shareholders during restructuring activities.
- Procedural guidelines for winding up companies and handling liquidation issues.
The provisions governing mergers and amalgamations ensure that any form of corporate restructuring is carried out in a manner that is transparent, equitable, and legally compliant. The Act provides clear instructions to avoid any abuse of power and to protect the rights of all stakeholders involved in the process.
8. Winding Up and Liquidation
Not all companies continue to flourish indefinitely. The Companies Act 2013 also lays down the legal framework for the winding up and liquidation of companies. This section explains the circumstances under which a company may be wound up, the processes involved in liquidation, and the rights of creditors and stakeholders during this process.
Key aspects of the winding up provisions include:
- The initiation of winding up proceedings either voluntarily by the company or compulsorily by the tribunal.
- Guidelines on the appointment of liquidators and the management of the winding up process.
- Procedures for asset realization, settlement of liabilities, and distribution of surplus funds.
- Protection of creditors’ rights during the liquidation process.
Rules Under the Companies Act 2013
The Companies Act 2013 is supported by a comprehensive set of rules that provide the procedural framework for implementing the provisions of the Act. These rules ensure that the Act’s provisions are applied consistently and fairly across all types of companies. In this section, we break down the various rules into key categories and explain their importance in practical terms.
The rules can be broadly divided into several categories:
- Incorporation and Registration Rules: These govern the initial steps for registering a company, including name reservation, submission of required documents, and the filing of incorporation forms.
- Corporate Governance Rules: Detailed guidelines on the functioning of the board of directors, meetings, disclosure norms, and audit procedures fall under this category.
- Financial Disclosure and Audit Rules: Rules that govern the preparation, auditing, and disclosure of financial statements to ensure transparency and accountability.
- CSR Implementation Rules: Specific guidelines to help companies plan, execute, and report on their Corporate Social Responsibility activities.
- Merger, Amalgamation, and Restructuring Rules: These rules set out the procedural steps for mergers, demergers, and restructuring processes, ensuring the protection of stakeholders’ rights.
- Winding Up and Liquidation Rules: Guidelines to ensure that the process of winding up a company is conducted fairly and efficiently.
Forms Under the Companies Act 2013
An integral part of ensuring compliance under the Companies Act 2013 is the use of standardized forms for various corporate filings. These forms are designed to facilitate the documentation of key corporate processes such as incorporation, change of directors, annual filings, and more. In this section, we provide a detailed overview of the most important forms prescribed by the Act.
The following are some of the key forms and their purposes:
- Form INC-7: Used for the incorporation of a new company, ensuring that all necessary details and documents are duly filed.
- Form DIR-12: Used for the appointment or resignation of directors, helping maintain accurate records of changes in company management.
- Form MGT-7: The annual return that companies are required to file, providing a snapshot of the company’s operational and financial status.
- Form AOC-4: Used for filing the financial statements and reports of the company, ensuring transparency in financial disclosures.
- Form CHG-1: Pertains to the creation, modification, or satisfaction of charges on the company’s assets.
- Form MGT-14: Used for filing resolutions and agreements that require regulatory approval.
Amendments & Updates to the Companies Act 2013
Since its enactment, the Companies Act 2013 has undergone several amendments and updates to address emerging challenges and adapt to changes in the business landscape. This section provides an overview of the key amendments that have been introduced, as well as an analysis of their implications for corporate governance and compliance.
Amendments to the Act have typically focused on:
- Streamlining incorporation procedures and reducing the regulatory burden on startups and small businesses.
- Enhancing transparency in corporate disclosures, especially in financial reporting and director remuneration.
- Introducing stricter penalties and enforcement mechanisms to deter fraudulent activities.
- Adapting to global best practices in corporate governance and accounting standards.
- Updating compliance requirements to incorporate technological advancements in reporting and auditing.
Compliance & Best Practices
Compliance with the Companies Act 2013 is not merely about fulfilling statutory obligations; it is also about adopting best practices that enhance corporate governance and operational efficiency. This section provides practical advice on how companies can ensure that they remain compliant with the Act while also embracing strategies that promote transparency and accountability.
Key areas of focus for compliance include:
- Regular Audits: Conducting both internal and external audits to ensure that financial records are accurate and up-to-date.
- Robust Internal Controls: Implementing strong internal control mechanisms to prevent fraud and mismanagement.
- Timely Filings: Ensuring that all statutory forms and returns are filed within the prescribed timelines to avoid penalties.
- Training and Awareness: Regularly training directors, officers, and employees on the latest regulatory requirements and compliance practices.
- Transparent Communication: Maintaining open channels of communication with stakeholders regarding financial performance and governance practices.
Case Studies & Examples
To illustrate the practical application of the Companies Act 2013, this section presents several case studies and real-world examples. These examples highlight both the successful implementation of the Act’s provisions and the challenges encountered by companies in the process of compliance.
Case Study 1: Incorporation and Governance
A leading technology startup recently underwent the process of incorporation under the Companies Act 2013. By meticulously following the prescribed procedures—including name reservation, submission of necessary forms, and the appointment of a qualified board—the company was able to establish itself quickly and gain the confidence of its investors. This case highlights the importance of a well-structured incorporation process as outlined in the Act.
Case Study 2: CSR Implementation
An established manufacturing company has successfully integrated CSR into its operational strategy. By allocating a designated percentage of its profits to community development and environmental sustainability projects, the company has not only complied with legal requirements but also enhanced its brand image. This example demonstrates how the CSR mandate under the Act can be leveraged for both social good and business advantage.
Case Study 3: Financial Transparency and Audit
In another instance, a mid-sized enterprise revamped its internal auditing procedures in response to the strict requirements of the Act. By adopting advanced audit software and reinforcing internal controls, the company significantly improved the accuracy and transparency of its financial reporting. This case underscores the critical role of robust financial practices in building stakeholder trust.
Case Study 4: Merger and Restructuring
A notable example of corporate restructuring involved the merger of two established companies. The process, governed by the detailed provisions of the Act, ensured that all stakeholders were adequately informed and protected throughout the transition. The successful merger is a testament to the effectiveness of the legal safeguards embedded within the Act.
Future Challenges & Implications
As the business environment continues to evolve, so too do the challenges associated with corporate governance and compliance. The Companies Act 2013, while robust, is not immune to the pressures of an ever-changing economic and technological landscape. In this section, we explore some of the future challenges that companies may face and the potential implications for the legal framework.
Technological Advancements: With rapid technological progress, companies are increasingly relying on digital tools for operations and reporting. This creates both opportunities and challenges in maintaining data security, ensuring real-time compliance, and adapting to new regulatory technologies.
Evolving Global Standards: As global best practices in corporate governance continue to evolve, Indian companies may face pressure to align more closely with international standards. This could lead to further amendments in the Act and require companies to adopt more rigorous compliance measures.
Enhanced Scrutiny by Regulators: In the wake of several high-profile corporate scandals worldwide, regulators are likely to impose even stricter oversight on corporate practices. This increased scrutiny will necessitate higher standards of transparency and accountability from companies.
Sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance): The growing emphasis on sustainability and ethical governance is set to redefine corporate success. Companies may need to integrate comprehensive ESG practices into their operations, which could lead to additional reporting and compliance requirements under the Act.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): While the Act aims to create a level playing field for all companies, SMEs often find the regulatory requirements burdensome. Future reforms may need to strike a balance between ensuring robust corporate governance and supporting the growth of smaller enterprises.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To help clarify common queries regarding the Companies Act 2013, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions along with comprehensive answers. These FAQs address various aspects of the Act, from its basic principles to its more intricate provisions.
Q1: What is the Companies Act 2013 and why was it introduced?
The Companies Act 2013 is a legislative framework that governs the incorporation, management, and dissolution of companies in India. It was introduced to modernize the previous law, enhance corporate governance, and ensure greater transparency and accountability in corporate operations.
Q2: Who is affected by the Companies Act 2013?
The Act applies to all companies incorporated in India, including public, private, and one-person companies. Certain provisions are specifically tailored to address the needs of small and medium enterprises, though these companies may face unique compliance challenges.
Q3: What are the key differences between the Companies Act 2013 and the previous Companies Act?
Some of the significant changes include enhanced disclosure requirements, stricter corporate governance norms, the introduction of CSR mandates, and more detailed provisions for mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring. The Act places greater emphasis on transparency and accountability compared to its predecessor.
Q4: What types of forms must companies file under the Act?
Companies must file various forms for incorporation, director appointments, annual returns, financial statements, and changes in share capital. Each form is designed to capture specific details and ensure that companies remain compliant with statutory requirements.
Q5: How often do companies need to file their annual returns and financial statements?
Typically, companies are required to file their annual returns and audited financial statements once every financial year. The exact deadlines and procedures are specified within the Act and the associated rules.
Q6: What are the penalties for non-compliance with the Act?
Non-compliance can result in various penalties, including fines, restrictions on business operations, and, in severe cases, legal action against directors and officers. The severity of the penalties often depends on the nature and extent of the non-compliance.
Conclusion
The Companies Act 2013 has undoubtedly transformed the landscape of corporate governance in India. Through its comprehensive provisions on incorporation, management, financial reporting, CSR, and more, the Act has set a new benchmark for transparency and accountability in business. This guide has attempted to provide a detailed exploration of the various sections, rules, and forms that make up the Act, offering insights into its practical implications and future challenges.
Whether you are a company director, a legal professional, or an investor, understanding the nuances of the Act is crucial for making informed decisions and ensuring compliance. The internal navigation provided within this article is designed to help you easily access the information you need, while the detailed explanations aim to demystify the complexities of the law.
As the business environment continues to evolve, staying updated with amendments and emerging best practices will be key to sustaining growth and maintaining corporate integrity. Ultimately, the Companies Act 2013 is more than just a legal document—it is a roadmap for responsible and ethical corporate conduct.
References
The information presented in this article is based on a comprehensive analysis of the Companies Act 2013 and related regulatory guidelines. For further reading and verification, please refer to the following resources:
- Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India
- The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India
- Securities and Exchange Board of India
These links are provided for your reference and further exploration. All information has been compiled with the intent to provide a comprehensive, accurate, and easily understandable overview of the Companies Act 2013.
Extended Insights and In-Depth Analysis
In order to fully appreciate the magnitude and impact of the Companies Act 2013, it is essential to delve deeper into the intricacies of the legislation. This extended analysis is intended to provide further context, elaborate on key concepts, and offer practical insights into the application of the law in diverse business scenarios.
Historical Context and the Evolution of Company Law:
The evolution of company law in India has been shaped by the changing needs of a growing economy. From the colonial era to the modern digital age, the legal framework governing companies has undergone significant transformation. The Companies Act 2013 marks a watershed moment in this evolution, addressing longstanding issues while paving the way for a more dynamic and transparent regulatory environment.
Historically, the Companies Act of 1956 served as the backbone of corporate law in India for several decades. However, rapid economic growth and globalization exposed the limitations of the older framework. Issues such as outdated compliance procedures, inadequate protection for minority shareholders, and insufficient accountability measures prompted lawmakers to undertake a comprehensive review. The resulting Companies Act 2013 was designed to remedy these shortcomings and align India’s corporate governance standards with international practices.
Detailed Analysis of Key Provisions:
A closer examination of the key provisions reveals the depth of reform introduced by the Act. For example, the enhanced disclosure requirements now mandate a level of transparency that was previously absent. Companies are required to provide detailed reports on financial performance, director remuneration, and related party transactions. These measures ensure that stakeholders are fully informed about the internal workings of a company.
Furthermore, the Act introduces robust measures to address conflicts of interest and unethical practices. Directors are now under greater scrutiny, and there are strict guidelines governing their conduct. The emphasis on accountability is further reinforced by the mandatory rotation of auditors and the increased frequency of financial audits. These provisions have significantly raised the standard of corporate governance.
Practical Implementation Challenges:
While the theoretical framework of the Companies Act 2013 is comprehensive, practical implementation can pose significant challenges. Many companies, especially SMEs, have struggled with the administrative burden imposed by the new compliance requirements. In response, regulatory bodies have undertaken initiatives to simplify processes and provide clearer guidance. Nonetheless, gaps remain, and ongoing training and technological support are critical for effective implementation.
Consider the scenario of a mid-sized enterprise attempting to comply with the enhanced reporting standards. The company must invest in modern accounting systems, train its staff on new protocols, and possibly hire external consultants to bridge any expertise gaps. Although this may increase operational costs in the short term, the long-term benefits include improved financial transparency and a stronger reputation among investors.
Comparative Analysis with Global Standards:
A comparative analysis reveals that the Companies Act 2013 is in many respects on par with global best practices. Countries across the world have recognized the importance of stringent corporate governance, and India’s reforms are reflective of this global trend. However, there remain areas where further alignment is needed. For instance, the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into corporate reporting is an area that is rapidly gaining prominence internationally.
As global investors increasingly factor ESG criteria into their decision-making processes, companies in India are under pressure to adopt similar measures. Future amendments to the Act may well focus on bridging this gap, ensuring that Indian companies remain competitive in the global marketplace.
Sector-Specific Implications:
The impact of the Companies Act 2013 varies across different sectors. In highly regulated industries such as banking and finance, the enhanced oversight has led to more rigorous internal controls and improved risk management practices. In contrast, startups and tech companies, which often thrive on agility and rapid innovation, have sometimes found the compliance requirements to be cumbersome.
In order to address these concerns, there have been targeted initiatives to simplify procedures for certain types of companies. For example, the introduction of the One Person Company (OPC) concept was a direct response to the needs of individual entrepreneurs and small businesses. By allowing a single person to form a company, the Act has provided a pathway for innovation while maintaining regulatory oversight.
Long-Term Impact on Corporate Culture:
Beyond mere regulatory compliance, the Companies Act 2013 has had a transformative effect on corporate culture in India. Companies are now more mindful of their social responsibilities, ethical obligations, and the need for transparent governance. This shift is not only reflected in boardroom policies but also in day-to-day operations, employee behavior, and stakeholder interactions.
The long-term impact of these cultural changes is likely to be profound. As companies continue to adapt to the evolving legal landscape, there is a growing emphasis on building trust, fostering innovation, and ensuring sustainable growth. The Act has, in many ways, set the stage for a new era of corporate accountability that prioritizes ethical practices and responsible governance.
Expert Opinions and Legal Commentaries:
Legal experts and industry analysts have widely acknowledged the significance of the Companies Act 2013. In numerous seminars, conferences, and academic discussions, experts have highlighted both the strengths and the areas for improvement in the Act. While many laud the enhanced transparency and accountability measures, others point out the challenges faced by smaller companies in meeting the rigorous compliance standards.
The consensus among experts is that the Act represents a step in the right direction, but continuous review and adaptation are necessary to keep pace with the changing business environment. Many legal commentaries suggest that periodic amendments will be required to address emerging challenges, such as digital transformation, cybersecurity, and global market integration.
Hypothetical Scenarios and Practical Applications:
To further illustrate the practical applications of the Act, consider a hypothetical scenario involving a large multinational corporation operating in India. Faced with the challenge of integrating its global operations with local compliance requirements, the company undertakes a comprehensive review of its corporate governance policies. This involves restructuring its board, adopting new financial reporting systems, and enhancing its internal controls to meet the stringent standards of the Companies Act 2013.
In another scenario, a startup in the technology sector leverages the provisions of the Act to attract venture capital investments. By demonstrating a strong commitment to transparency and robust corporate governance, the startup is able to build trust with potential investors and secure the necessary funding for expansion.
These hypothetical examples underscore the versatility of the Act and its capacity to adapt to diverse business needs. They also highlight the importance of proactive compliance and the benefits of aligning corporate practices with statutory requirements.
Recommendations for Future Reforms:
In light of the challenges and opportunities presented by the Companies Act 2013, several recommendations have emerged for future reforms. These include:
- Streamlining compliance procedures for SMEs and startups to reduce administrative burdens.
- Enhancing digital integration in reporting and auditing to improve efficiency and accuracy.
- Incorporating comprehensive ESG reporting requirements to align with global standards.
- Providing greater clarity and support for companies undergoing mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring.
- Regular training programs and capacity-building initiatives for company directors and compliance officers.
Such reforms, if implemented, would not only enhance the effectiveness of the Act but also ensure that it remains responsive to the evolving needs of the corporate sector.
Final Note
This article has provided an exhaustive exploration of the Companies Act 2013—from its foundational sections and detailed rules to the practical aspects of compliance and the broader implications for corporate governance. By offering clear internal navigation and an in-depth analysis, we hope to have created a resource that is not only informative but also accessible to a wide audience.
Whether you are seeking to understand the legal intricacies of company law or simply wish to gain insights into best practices for corporate compliance, this guide is designed to serve as a comprehensive reference. Remember that while the law provides a framework, the success of its implementation depends largely on the commitment of companies to embrace ethical practices and transparent governance.
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