It is also common for a distinction to be made between the publicly tradable companies of the plc type (for example, the GermanAktiengesellschaft (AG), BritishPLC, Czecha.s., ItalianS.p.A., Hungarian Zrt.
Limited companies can be found in most countries, although the detailed rules governing them vary widely. In contrast, anyone may buy shares in a public limited company. Who may become a member of a private limited company is restricted by law and by the company's rules. The former may be further divided in public companies and private companies. Limited companies may be limited by shares or by guarantee. In a limited company, the liability of members or subscribers of the company is limited to what they have invested or guaranteed to the company.