Explain the difference between a public and private limited company

A public limited company (plc) can sell its own shares onto the stock exchange and requires a minimum of 2 people and they also have unlimited liability in terms of their personal assets and capital. On the other hand, a private limited company (Ltd) is privately owned by a small number of investors and is not listed on the stock exchange, therefore if the business becomes insolvent, their personal assets are protected and only the original capital is at risk.