AGENDA: Panama Papers: details about what happened and why, Offshore companies: are they legal?, Mossak Fonseca, Worldwide reaction & response to the leak, Consequences: cause & effect, Further implications, What to do after the leak, implications to the offshore world and service providers. Tax planning in a new context, How can ECS help?

Cyprus tax reform 2026 analysis: 15% corporate tax, 8% crypto tax, dividend changes. Strategic insights for businesses and investors on upcoming fiscal changes.

Master your ECI filing in Singapore. Our complete guide covers deadlines, penalties, calculation, and e-filing with IRAS. Learn about exemptions and ensure full tax compliance.

Income, earned by a Cyprus tax resident individual, arising from the rental of immovable property which is situated in Cyprus is taxable both under the Cyprus Income Tax and the Special Contribution Tax legislation.

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.

AGENDA: The Scheme & the Benefits, The Criteria & the process, Documentation required, How Eltoma can assist

AGENDA: What is a contract?, How is a contract made?, What is required for a legally binding contract?, When does a contract become effective?, Illegal and voidable contracts, Remedies

AGENDA: Definition of Company Director, Duties of Company Director, Extent of such liability, D&O Insurance Liability, Conclusion

AGENDA: Definition of Cryptocurrencies, where we will cover some of the definitions issued by a few regulators and we will provide a the general technicalities of Cryptocurrencies, Cryptography, Blockchain, Distributed Ledger Technology, Legal approach, where we will discuss the regulatory approach towards Cryptocurrency around the world and with special focus in key jurisdictions, Regulatory outlook

Expats are people who do not live where they were born and not in the country whose citizenship they have - this is a separate class of people who follow a prestigious job and a comfortable life. And among many countries, they choose those that they like.

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.

As companies develop and grow, in turn so their marketing priorities and budgets. What is required to obtain the first 10 clients will be entirely different to the first 100.

This article contains updated answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding the requirements for Cayman companies to be registered for FATCA.

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.

Complete guide to the Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa. Learn about the €3,500 income requirement, step-by-step application, tax residency rules (Non-Dom status), and why Cyprus is a top remote work hub.

The bank’s obligations to keep the bank secrecy are usually implied within client contracts. The contract does not protect the client when a third party has retained and disclosed confidential information, whether it happens accidentally, with the intention or with consent.

A successive round of new allegations about some of the largest Nordic banks being involved behind the scenes in indirectly channeling dirty money through their Baltic locales.

The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission has remarked upon the growth and popularity of ICOs for raising money not only in Hong Kong but other Asian countries. This article confirms and explains how digital tokens that are offered or sold may be defined as “securities” and as such are therefore governed by the relevant securities legislation of Hong Kong.

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 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.

See below the considerations that should be established to ensure you have taken the necessary steps to protect yourself and your new business in 2018.

Being unaware of Compliance Matters in Singapore could end up with Business Owners and founders of Singapore companies heading to Court, as ACRA puts a stop on companies that consistently do not hold an Annual General Meetings or AGM.

Family offices are essentially private wealth management advisory firms that serve high-net-worth (HNW) investors. They are different from traditional wealth management advisories in that they offer a total outsourced solution to managing the financial and investment side of affluent individuals or families.

The doctrine of the corporate veil was developed in the UK, where it finds its most frequent usage in case law. In practice, there are three occasions when the court has lifted the veil: application of the terms of a contract or statute, or as a matter of common law.

Cyprus has successfully undergone a positive assessment and will officially become a part of the Schengen information system. This development signifies that Cyprus will now have the capability to exchange valuable information with other Schengen member states.

AGENDA: What is SAR, Importance of SAR reports, When do I need to send a SAR?, Sending SAR in non-regulated sectors, Reliability of information specified in the SAR, The concept of Tipping off, SAR Online

The introduction of the VCC is a significant positive for the Singapore funds industry. Its aim is to retain Singapore as an attractive business destination and to keep investors wishing to domicile locally.

Belize has amended its International Business Companies Act. These changes were to maintain its financial services industry in the increasingly regulated international market & meet the OECD white list requirements.

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.

Filing annual returns can be risky for a small company just starting a business. Also, you will have to deal with other issues, such as compliance with the law. To simplify the process of filing annual returns, you need to know the essential requirements.

AGENDA: Characteristics of a Company, Company formation & related issues, Separate Legal Entity: meaning and relevance, The corporate veil, Share Capital, Company constitution, Company objects

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.

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?

Singapore is gaining more attraction as a trust jurisdiction internationally. A range of factors have contributed to achieving a reputable offshore trust status, including but not limited to the several reasons.

The Central Bank of Cyprus has released new guidance for all credit institutions on the island, refining the definition for shell companies and subsidiary entities; coming into effect from November 2018.

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.

The fact that money can be transferred from one jurisdiction to another means, that money laundering as a concept involves the entire modern world. In the United Kingdom, banks are always under the supervision of strict regulatory bodies.

Learn how to check Singapore company registration via ACRA BizFile+. Get Business Profile, verify UEN number & conduct due diligence on business partners.

Cyprus is likely to have repercussions as a result of Jean-Claude Juncker ’s favouring of a relaxation in EU regulation formation and monitoring schemes, reinforced by qualified majorities on matters including the additional synchronisation of blanket taxation rates across Europe.

There are two types of VCCs in Cyprus; UCITS which we will discuss in the following article, and AIFS. A UCITS shall take the legal form of a limited liability company, its name shall include the reference: “Variable Capital Investment Company”, and it shall be in compliance with the provisions/requirements of the Law 78(I)/2012.

On the 7th of May, 2015 a new legislation was published in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Cyprus, that of Insolvency Consultants Law of 2015 (64(I)/2015 (the “Law”). This new legislation outlines the criteria for qualification, regulation and monitoring of persons that have the role of insolvency consultant.

In a bid to make Singapore a shipping hub, various incentives were introduced to make it attractive to have shipping activities in Singapore. Essentially the provisions that govern the exemption of shipping activities in Singapore are found in Section 13A and Section 13F of the Singapore Income Tax Act (SITA).

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.

Step-by-step guide to Hong Kong private company share transfer. Learn about stamp duty, board approval, share transfer form & legal requirements for shareholders.

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.

Strategically reduce your tax bill in Singapore. Our expert guide explains CPF relief, personal & family tax deductions, SRS, and how to file with IRAS for optimal tax planning.

Learn how to become a certified company secretary in Hong Kong. Explore qualifications, licensing (TCSP), registration steps, and professional skills for compliance success.

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.

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.

In an effort to improve the global reporting standard of local tax systems and combat tax avoidance, governments from various jurisdictions will bring the automatic exchange of information in tax matters for all countries up to the same standard. This is referred to as the Common Reporting Standard (CRS).

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.

To make things easier for taxpayers, the Cabinet of Ministers of Cyprus has extended the filing tax returns deadline for a month. Recently, Finance Minister Konstantinos Petrides announced this decision.

As per Hong Kong company’s ordinance subdivision 3 section 379 subsection 1, a Company Director will have to prepare year-end financial accounts that comply with sections 380 and 383.

The Cyprus Ministry of Finance has released a statement regarding the IMF (the International Monetary Fund) & the European Commission is recommending Bills regarding the islands longstanding issue with Non-Performing Loans.

All Hong Kong businesses providing Trustee Services will not be able to operate without a valid trading license after March the 1st 2018. The new scheme is designed to better regulate individuals carrying out services within the financial sphere in Hong Kong and will be overseen and administered by the Hong Kong Companies Registry.

Cyprus is a European country that is attracting the most interest from critics of the scheme due to Cyprus being the jurisdiction granting the highest number of passports. Opponents of the scheme are also alluding to the prospect of using potentially recycled or laundered funds to keep Europe a float.

The Minister of Finance of the Republic of Cyprus held a press conference dedicated to launching the Action Plan to attract companies to conduct activities and expand in Cyprus. The above Action plan is a significant improvement in promoting Cyprus as an international business centre.

The new law states that an ABSD of 35% must now be paid in advance in such a case. However, a tax refund is possible if the sale of residential property is to a trustee who holds the assets of one or more identifiable beneficiaries in the trust. Testamentary trusts are also exempt from tax.

The Singapore Tax Authority (IRAS) have special rules relating to the taxation of investment companies. An investment company is one that owns investments such as properties, shares, bonds and therefore derives income such as rental, dividend and interest.

Initial Coin Offerings (“ICO”) have gained increasing attention by cryptocurrency users, the media and the regulators. The rising price of Bitcoin, one of the most widely known and used cryptocurrencies, along with fraud scandals in different countries, have raised attention by the public and concern by the regulators.

This year, the Republic of Cyprus ratified The Hague Conventions’ definition of the legislation applicable to trusts and furthering the regulations surrounding their recognition. Cyprus common law now recognises trusts as a unique legal institution under equity.

The Singapore authorities are not ready to completely give up market control. A free economy should not harm the legislative, judicial and executive systems of government. With the advent of new powers of the Monetary Authority of Singapore, doing business in the jurisdiction will become more complicated.

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.

AGENDA: General information on Hong Kong, Company registration procedure and types of companies in Hong Kong,MCompany corporate documents, First directors, shareholders and company secretary, Nominee service, Compliance regulations, Options to liquidate a company

The Accounting and Corporate Regulation Authority (ACRA) of the Republic of Singapore defines the Charge as “a form of security interest usually taken by a lender or creditor (“chargee”) to secure the repayment of a loan”.

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.

In a bid to rebuild the dwindling economy in Cyprus shortly after the financial crisis four years ago, the government launched a passport-by-investment program to temp wealthy foreigners with citizenship in exchange for an investment of no less than €2 million into the Cyprus economy.

The European Commission has published proposals to tighten its rules on emergency freezing, return and confiscation of assets, including confiscating the wealth of unknown origin without a conviction.

Complete guide to the Hong Kong MSO license for money transfer & exchange. Learn about AMLO compliance, application steps, and ongoing regulatory duties.

In May, when the UK government voted to force transparency on its colonies and former colonies, it was just the latest blow to the offshore havens. This concerted campaign has threatened the stereotypical tax haven business model.

Under Section 12(7) (d), rent or other payments under any agreement or arrangement for the use of any movable property shall be deemed derived from Singapore.

An individual is not regarded as a shadow Director solely because the Company Directors act on the advice given by that individual in a professional capacity. There are various exceptions and whether or not a person is a shadow director is a question of fact and dependent upon all the relevant circumstances.

Navigate the Hong Kong MSO license application. Our expert guide covers requirements for Money Service Operators, AML/CFT rules, and how to obtain your money changing or remittance license.

AGENDA: Classification of foreign companies, Company documents, Authorised capital, Offshores and offshore jurisdictions, Onshore companies, “Grey” and “Black” lists of countries, Nominee service, Beneficial Owner, Due Diligence & KYC, Company Tax Residency, Company liquidation

Technology is transforming Singapore’s payments landscape and has reduced the obstacles to entry to running a payments business. This, as well as the prolific adoption of the use of smartphones and tablets, has made it easier than ever for companies to obtain clients digitally.

ECI means Estimated Chargeable Income. It is an estimate of a Singapore company’s chargeable income for the given Year of Assessment (YA). The amount of ECI declared is based on the amount before the deduction of any exempt amounts under the partial tax exemption or tax exemption schemes for new start-up Singapore companies.

There are two types of Variable Capital Companies in Cyprus; UCITS and AIFS. Read on to find out more about Alternative Investment Funds.

The Government in Panama officially approved Law Number 52; legislation which creates the regulatory framework for the implementation regarding automatically exchanging tax information, in a further attempt to comply with global regulations for tax transparency, and to be fully in line with all supervisory and compliance matters.

A Creditor may apply to court for the issuance of a liquidation order against a company that does not comply with a demand notice to pay any outstanding debts. The notice of demand is served to the registered office of the company, who then has 21 days to pay the fine.

A Power of Attorney (POA) is a document created by a person who appoints another person to act on his behalf. The creator of the POA is called the donor, and the person appointed to act on behalf of the donor is called the donee. There are several types of POA, each with different functions. Powers of Attorney are used in a wide variety of transactions.

Complete guide to Cyprus 2025 labor law reforms: EU directives implementation, remote work rules, overtime pay, and employer compliance requirements.

Nowadays, to enter the regional or global market, there are a vast number of attractive jurisdictions. Nevertheless, according to analysts, in the last decade, the attention of our compatriots has been increasingly attracted by a small country in Southeast Asia - Singapore.