What Is the Difference Between an Operating Company And A Holding Company?

by Matt McKay, Demand Media

The difference between an operating company and a holding company lies in the fundamental structures of the two, in their management and their interactions with one another. Business goals are often different, and both business types are after profits, but holding companies can still benefit from operating company losses under certain conditions.

Holding Companies

The primary function of a holding company is to invest in other companies, commonly known as subsidiaries. Holding companies are usually not involved in day-to-day operations of the operating company, but lend initial or ongoing financial support via cash reserves or stock sales, and may assist in restructuring the operational model to ensure profits. Holding companies are normally structured as corporations to protect assets, absorb financial losses and limit liability.

Operating Companies

Operating companies are owned by the holding company, but are responsible for all day-to-day operations of the company. When a holding company creates or purchases an operating company, they are sometimes allowed to conduct business as usual -- especially if they are profitable. Net profits after expenses are then handed over to the holding company.


Ownership of operating companies, even when purchased, revert to the holding company. Former owners who are kept on-board are often given control of the operating company in the form of executive management responsibility, but have no ownership rights. All major decisions that may affect profitability or involve large expenditures must first be approved by the holding company.

Profits and Losses

Although operating company profitability should make sense for the holding company, this is not always the case. Especially for larger holding companies with heavy tax burdens, owning one or more operating companies that lose money can benefit the parent company in the form of a business loss when tax time rolls around. This does not benefit the operating company, as it is responsible for operating income to run the business. If the losses become too great, operating companies can go out of business, but the holding company can still benefit because the operating company can help to balance overall profits and stock prices.

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