What is necessary for a company to provide financial assistance for the purchase of its own shares?

For a company to provide financial assistance for the purchase of its own shares, it is essential that the transaction falls under the category of a permitted transaction. Financial assistance refers to a scenario where a company aids a third party in acquiring its own shares, which can raise regulatory issues as it may impact the company’s capital structure and obligations to other shareholders.

Under the Companies Act, there are specific provisions and regulations that clearly define when a company can legally provide such financial assistance. If the assistance is characterized as a permitted transaction, it means the company is complying with existing legal frameworks and guidelines established to protect shareholder interests and maintain the integrity of the company’s financial dealings.

In this context, the other options do not align with the legal requirements necessary for providing financial assistance. Non-permitted transactions would include actions that are against the regulations governing corporate finances. Written approval from shareholders, while important in various contexts, does not in itself satisfy the legal requirements that govern financial assistance. A public offering doesn't relate to the internal mechanisms through which financial assistance is considered. Thus, a clear understanding of the legal boundaries and options is critical for ensuring compliance and proper governance.