On 17th June 2015 the European Commission has presented the Corporate Tax Reform Action Plan which signifies the second and more comprehensive step towards remodelling corporate taxation in the European Union.
We have compiled a list of answers to common questions regarding SLAs and basic tips on how your organisation or business can create effective SLAs with any vendors or business partners.
The legislation for Scottish Limited Partnerships have changed regarding the disclosure of information. Going forward, Scottish LPs will have to register all information about PSCs and Business Owners with the UK Companies House from July 24th 2017.
AGENDA: Personal income tax, Special contribution, Corporate tax, Back to back loans, Annual levy, Special defense contribution tax, Capital gains tax, Immovable property tax
The Monetary Authority of Singapore has released its plans to further control and regulate the current elusive virtual currency market and intermediaries that facilitate their online trade in Singapore. The anonymity surrounding so-called crypto currencies such as bitcoin raises questions over potential money laundering & terrorist financing risks.
ICOs create wide-ranging implications for Bookkeepers and Accountants, opening up opportunities for a range of new services however also raising attention towards moral issues, ethic and other potential security risks.
Guide to Cyprus's 2026 tax reform: 15% corporate tax, 8% crypto tax, dividend changes, and new powers for tax authorities. Strategic analysis for businesses.
The Income Tax Act does not give a definition for royalties. However, royalties can be defined as a payment for the right to use a patent, copyright and other intellectual property. E.g. payment for every book sold or an artist album sold on VCD.
After a recent review, changes have been made to the Singapore Companies Act 2014, which came into force on July 1st, 2015. These changes are to ensure that Singapore’s corporate regulatory framework will continue to meet changing business practices, to reduce the compliance and regulatory burden for companies.
In a new action plan adopted in October 2021, the Cypriot government announced a course to attract foreign investment, businesses and expats. In addition, the authorities' representatives announced several innovations, which concerned mainly immigration law.
This 2 part series is part of a guide detailing Annual Requirements for UK registered companies. It will cover the rules governing filing of annual returns and accounts of UK registered companies, by company type.
There are many factors that influence an investor to obtain a second citizenship in another country. Aspects such as relocation, retirement, security or even long-term plans for future generations are all benefits and considerations in the prospectus for investment. Several countries now offer this option through different investment schemes.
Following Circulars No.2011/11 and No.2011/5, this article will explain what a “dormant company” is, its symptoms and consequent requirements. The following is an extract from PART 1.7 of the “Company Income Statement” form (EP 4), whereby a definition of a dormant company is considered to be a company that meets certain conditions.
AGENDA: The Role of KPIs, KPI definititon, Short & Long Term Goals
Some call it symbol, others name it as mark or logo but in reality, it is the way the public at large can identify and recognise a particular product and or service and has been considered by many people as the most valuable asset and as indicators of source.
BVI CRS 2.0 guide for advisers and wealth structures covering 2026 data collection, May 2027 reporting, classification, onboarding, BVIFARS and Additional Information Forms.
Any person who withholds tax from interest, royalties, management fees, Directors’ remuneration or other payments paid to a non-resident person must complete and submit the IR37 form to the Comptroller together with the relevant amount of tax withheld.
The following article will examine various duties of loyalty to a business that are owed by Senior Employees, partners, Company Directors, and mere employees using supporting legislation from the Companies Act 2006 and principles established from UK common law cases.
The EC (European Commission) has published its draft legislation compelling financial service providers or intermediaries to disclose any international tax planning schemes they have encouraged, enabled or assisted in any way.
Section 2(1) of the SITA defines a PE to mean a fixed place where a business is wholly or partly carried out including a place of management, a branch, an office, a factory, a warehouse, a workshop, a farm or plantation, a mine, oil well, quarry or other place of extraction of natural resources, a building or work site or a construction, installation or assembly project.
Pursuant to Part III of Chapter 113 of Cyprus legislation, Mortgage Registration with the Cyprus Registrar emerges as compulsory by law. Certain formalities need to be followed regarding the filing of such registration as well as any amendment, concession and any other alteration which takes place following the formation of a Company in the Republic of Cyprus.
AGENDA: Introduction to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HK SAR), Company incorporation in Hong Kong, Company maintenance, Tax treatment, Key benefits
AGENDA: Criteria for choosing your bank, Corporate Bank Account Opening, What you need to know for each jurisdiction, Corporate Bank Account Maintenance & Bank Transfer Fees, Costs, Why Banks are closing Corporate Bank Accounts, Voluntary closing of a Corporate Bank Account
Complete guide to Cyprus 2025 labor law reforms: EU directives implementation, remote work rules, overtime pay, and employer compliance requirements.
This article looks at the many benefits associated with overseas banking; and how this has left the industry open to abuse.
Money laundering is the act of transforming money or other money obtained as a result of any illegal activity, in money or investments that appear legal, so that their illegal source cannot be traced.
The Ministry of Manpower requires foreign highly skilled professionals, Managers, Executives, specialists or entrepreneurs who wish to work in Singapore need an Employment Pass to commence employment. The Entrepreneur Pass is a type of employment pass for foreign entrepreneurs who would like to start and run a company in Singapore.
Hong Kong company incorporation guide for non-resident investors: NNC1, IRBR1, business registration, BRN, directors, secretary and compliance readiness.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has issued amendments to the current legislation regarding company mergers and commercial take-overs as per section 139 of the Securities and Futures Act in Singapore.
Understand your Singapore Tax Identification Number (TIN). Our guide explains TIN formats (NRIC, FIN, UEN), who needs one, and how to use it for tax filing and GST registration with IRAS.
Selection of an MIS can help increase understanding and control in an organisation and can be scaled to suit the complexity of most modern businesses. If the right MIS is selected and it is implemented correctly it can provide a competitive advantage for the organisations utilising it.
No withholding tax applies on interest and royalties when paid from a Russian Company to a Cypriot company. This was ratified on the Protocol and signed by Russia and Cyprus during 2012 and implemented in 2013.
Payment for the management or assistance in the management of any trade, business or profession that are: borne by a person resident or with permanent establishment in Singapore; which are deductible against any income accruing in or derived from Singapore, have no statutory definition of management or assistance in the management of any trade, business or profession.
Received a Notice of Assessment from IRAS? Our complete guide explains your Singapore tax assessment, how to read your NOA, and steps to file an objection if you find an error.
AGENDA: What is Know Your Client and the KYC Procedure, Relevant legislation requirements, Who is Politically Exposed Person (PEP),mTypes of PEPs, Who is Linked Person (LIP), Types of LIPs, Reliable PEP/LIP Data
The OECDs global tax transparency initiative was launched last year in April 2016, with the purpose of encouraging every jurisdiction across the world to commit to implementation of a CRS (Common Reporting Standard) for automatic exchange of information by 2018, and to sign the Multilateral Convention on the exchanging of tax data.
Master EU sanctions compliance with our guide on ownership and control rules. Learn about the 50% rule, beneficial ownership, and due diligence strategies now.
A Cyprus Company Director may be found liable by the Inland Revenue or Customs & Excise with regarding tax related issues. As per the legislation, the Inland Revenue or Customs & Excise may personally prosecute the Company Directors who are involved in any taxation offence(s) or related financial matters.
Compare Singapore vs Hong Kong for business in 2025. Expert analysis of taxes, industry opportunities, costs and which Asian hub suits your expansion goals.
Cyprus remains one of the most attractive European jurisdictions for entrepreneurs, investors, family offices, internationally mobile executives and high-net-worth individuals.
Guide to Singapore's CSP Act 2024. Learn about mandatory ACRA registration, enhanced AML/CFT duties & 'fit and proper' tests for nominee directors. Ensure compliance.
Cyprus Company Law provides for a member led voluntary winding up of a company. In order for this to occur the company must be solvent. The voluntary winding up of a Cyprus company is formalised in Article 261 – 292 of the Cyprus Companies Law.
Startups are growing and changing the Singapore ecosystem for the better with their innovative ideas and new technologies. Like small and young companies, startups may need funding and guidance to start their business. If you are a startup founder looking for investors for your business and want to know how to attract them, this article is for you.
Demand Generation marketing efforts refer to the various marketing approaches companies of different sizes and stages of commerce need in order to drive attention and interest in products & services, to acquire clients. Essentially what turns a good idea into a sustainable business.
Recently, the Cyprus Central Bank issued guidance to banks & credit institutions, advising them of the new mandatory refusal to take on new clients or to continue servicing existing accounts with so-called shell or letter-box companies.
The Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act well known as FATCA is becoming increasingly important and has as its main initiative the monitoring of the financial accounts of the persons who live outside the United States or whether US citizens, currently residing in the US or not, have earnings they do not report to the Inland Revenue Department.
Compare Hong Kong TCSP and Singapore CSP rules for company formation, address services, nominee roles, filings and designated accounting-service activities.
The following article is intended to highlight the stages involved in the visa application process for Russian citizens wanting to immigrate to live in the UK. There are many different ways to apply, depending on each applicant’s circumstances and requirements.
Immigrants wishing to live work or study in Cyprus are required to have either a valid work or residence permit. Fines may be imposed on anyone found to be employed in the country without valid and up-to-date paperwork. Citizens of any EU country can freely enter Cyprus with the correct passport/ID card.
How the renminbi is expanding in trade settlement, offshore liquidity and finance, and what CNY/CNH use means for contracts, treasury and investment.
Technically speaking, anyone can write a will for themselves or on behalf of others. However, just because you’ve written your own will doesn’t mean it’s necessarily valid.
When expanding your business overseas, not only do you have to comply with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and accounting standards, thought must also be given to the specific jurisdictions own rules and regulations.
The scheme was originally designed to make it possible to protect a trademark across a number of jurisdictions by obtaining an international registration that has effect in every participating country. The Madrid system provides a way to grant protection for a trademark in a simple, effective yet relatively inexpensive manner.
Among the number of amendments to the Companies Act, the provisions for the inward re-domiliation regime are arguably the most important in further boosting Singapore’s character as a business hub.
Application of a manual process could work when managers have the persuasive skills and time to carry busy employees with them and apply the rigour required to consistently apply invoice approval and coding practices. Alternatively, the process can be significantly improved by introducing software.
Compare Singapore’s 2026 SFO licensing exemption with Hong Kong’s proposed family-office tax reforms, including eligibility, substance and compliance.
Each licensed Administrative Service Provider (ASP) in Cyprus is registered under CySEC, and must comply with the preparation and submission of the required reports in order to be eligible for maintaining a valid license in Cyprus.
This article will examine the role of a Director and his duties and liability insurance and D&O insurance liability accordingly with reference to the relevant case law.
Explore how AI and tokenisation are reshaping financial markets, asset ownership, settlement, legal rights and investor protection.
To Brexit or not to Brexit – this has been the question of the year for Britain and with the referendum taking place imminently, just two options remain: leave the EU or stay in.
Company Secretary is typically named a Corporate Secretary or just a Secretary. The Company Secretary is responsible for the efficient administration of a company, particularly with regards to ensuring compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements and also for ensuring that decisions of the board of directors are implemented.
As per the ACRA requirements for companies in Singapore, an Annual General Meeting (AGM) must be held once every calendar year. However, under Section 175, an application is available to apply for an extension.
In the world of offshore, Nevis specialises in letting its clients create corporations with greater anonymity than almost anywhere else on earth. Since 2012, the island’s financial services sector has grown exponentially, as those wishing to retain anonymity relocated to a place that promises just that.
The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission has recently released information to all Cyprus Investment Firms, Management Companies and Administrative Service Providers regarding fraudulent tax evasion, and also a proposal on the prevention of use of the financial system for the purpose of money laundering and terrorist financing.
The Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) in Singapore has implemented the Register of Registrable Controllers (RORC) to enhance the transparency of ownership and control of corporate entities. This initiative is part of ACRA's ongoing efforts to uphold Singapore's reputation as a trusted financial hub.
Amendments to the Intellectual Property Bill, which came into force in May 2022, were passed in Parliament. The bill amends the existing Patent Law, Trademark Law, Registered Designs Law, Geographical Indications Law of 2014, and Plant Variety Protection Law to improve business friendliness, operational efficiency, and clarity of law and procedure.
Officials from the British Virgin Islands have come together to clarify various filing deadlines as per the automatic exchange of information systems in a press release.
AGENDA: Purpose and definition of a Double Tax Treaty ('DTT'), Types of DTTs dealing with tax matters, History of DTTs, DTTs and domestic law, Format and structure of a DTTs, Tax covered and not covered by DTTs, Interpretation of DTTs.
The MAS issued a statement clarifying that the offer or issue of digital tokens in Singapore will be regulated by the MAS, if the digital tokens fall within the definition of “securities” regulated under the security laws. MAS has observed that the function of digital tokens has evolved beyond just being a virtual currency.
The amendments of the Assessment and Collection of Taxes Law 78/2014, made on the 20th of June, 2014 with regards to the Law 4/1978, is a clear demonstration of the Cyprus Government’s commitment to the reforms proposed by the Troika.
Agenda: Requirements for the Registration Certificate Application, Where to apply: the immigration buildings & office contacts, The full application procedure, What documentation and information do you need to bring?, When do you need to apply for your yellow slip?, Rights for family members and other dependents, When your family are citizens in a EU or EEA member state, Employed and self-employed applicants, Retired and non-working applicants, Validity Period of Registration Certificates, Using an agent.
International business relocation is no longer exceptional. Companies restructure to enter new markets, obtain more reliable payment infrastructure, attract investors, diversify geopolitical and commercial risk, recruit internationally or move closer to customers and suppliers.
In this article, we will try to succinctly describe the technical and legal characteristics of Cryptocurrencies. The understanding of Cryptocurrencies is crucial for today’s modern payment services and investment opportunities around the world.
Cyprus is considered the "Pearl of the Mediterranean". There are quite a few reasons for moving to Cyprus. If you want to improve the quality of your life or get away from the hectic modern life, you should consider moving to the island.
UK non-dom regime ends April 2025. New 4-year FIG regime for foreign income & gains, inheritance tax changes. Strategic planning for wealthy individuals.
Singapore provides a well-regulated legal framework as well as all the benefits of a stable financial centre with a reliable reputation, excellent banking system and low tax rate. Due to these factors, Singapore is one of the most optimal jurisdictions for Initial Coin Offerings (ICO) fundraising.
AGENDA: An in depth look at Corporate Governance, Annual general meeting (AGM): frequency, requirements & agenda, Convening & recording attendance during a general meeting, The voting procedure, Quorum, role of the Chairman, Motions & resolutions decision making process, Director Meetings, Written Resolutions, what are they?
The European Commission supports Cyprus Schengen accession. Learn the timeline, Green Line conditions, and what this means for businesses, investors, and residents.
AGENDA: Part I: Definition, types and certainties of a trust, Part II: Analysis of the Cyprus International, Trusts - Conclusion
Singapore has a government who recognises the potentials of what SMEs can do for the economy and likes to support them accordingly. Since June 2014, Singapore has been chairing the ASEAN SME Working Group. Singapore hopes to lead fellow ASEAN members into the realisation of the ASEAN Economic Community for SMEs in 2015.
Financial analysts and organisations are beginning to welcome the idea that in specific cases, tax efficiency isn’t enough when structuring a business vehicle that will be automatically placed under investigation by certain countries that are becoming increasingly wary of any tax avoidance patterns or practices.
Malta and Cyprus undeniably have the most favourable citizenship by investment programmes in Europe. This article will compare the passport programmes on offer by Cyprus and Malta, as well as the differences in the tax regulations for both countries.
Singapore provides a well-regulated legal framework as well as all the benefits of a stable financial centre with a reliable reputation, excellent banking system and low tax rate. Due to these factors, Singapore is one of the most optimal jurisdictions for Initial Coin Offerings (ICO) fundraising.
