[Commerce Class Notes] on Distinction Joint Ventures Partnerships Pdf for Exam

The purpose of a partnership is not limited to a single project or to a single goal. The object of partnership is oriented towards the running of the business for the purpose of a long-term enterprise and for making a profit in the enterprise. Joint ventures, on the other hand, are strategized to accomplish a specified goal. In a JV, each party contributes their share to the agreed-upon task.

A joint venture is a contractual arrangement between the two or more entities which aims to undertake a specific task. A partnership whereas, involves an agreement between the two or more parties where they together agree to share the profits as well as share any loss which might have incurred in a single venture.

What is a Joint Venture and Partnership?

Joint Venture

A joint venture (JV) is a type of business arrangement where two or more parties agree to put together their resources for the purpose of accomplishing a specific task. This is a task for a new project or any other business activity which might be a goal for them. In JV type of business, the partners are responsible for all the profits. 

Partnership

A partnership is a formal arrangement between two or more parties who manage and operate the business and they share their own profits in profit sharing ratio. Partners may distribute the losses and profits equally or in a distinct ratio. Some partnership business restricts the liability of the partners to limited liability.

Points of Difference Between Joint Venture and Partnership

1. Who is in the Business?

A partnership is made up of persons, two or more, who is legally recognized for the purpose of operating this business. 

A joint venture, on the other hand, can be individuals or even entities who can come together to form a business organization. 

2. The Purpose of the Business Style

Both the partnerships and joint ventures are different in their style. A partnership’s purpose is not restricted to a single project or goal, rather, partnerships are formed for earning long-term profit. 

Joint ventures are designed to accomplish only a specific goal, which might be a single project.

3. How are Both Structured?

Partnerships are formed with a partnership agreement or a contract between the individuals who make up the partnership. 

Joint ventures, not necessarily have an agreement in the first place. Even, if there is an agreement, it is only for a short-term and it is a very specific contract.

4. How Long Does the Business Exist?

Partnerships are designed to last for eternity while in business. They can run to an infinite term. 

In contrast to this, the joint ventures are meant only for a short-term project lifetime. 

5. How Big is the Size and Scope of the business?

Joint ventures are limited in scope and their accomplishment is also limited. Partnerships, in contrast, can be huge in terms of both scope and size. 

6. Who Remains Accountable?

When a partnership goes wrong and causes a moral hazard, only the party who has committed the wrong faces with fault. 

In the case of a joint venture, both the parties are seen at fault in the case of a moral hazard or criminal wrongdoing. Accountability increases greatly which makes the joint ventures riskier in the short-term.