Saturday, 30 August 2025

 India

S. No

Due Date

Related to

Compliance to be made

1

11.09.2025

GST

Filing of GSTR-1 for August 2025.

2

13.09.2025

ISD

Filing for the month of Aug 2025

3

20.09.2025

GST

- Payment & filing of GST return for the Month of August 2025 - Form GSTR 3B

4

07.09.2025

TDS/TCS

(Income Tax)

· Deposit TDS for payments of Salary, Interest, Commission or Brokerage, Rent, Professional fee, payment to Contractors, etc. during the month of August 2025.

· Deposit TDS from Salaries deducted during the month of August 2025

• Deposit TCS for collections made under section 206C including sale of scrap during the month of August 2025, if any

• Deliver a copy of Form 15G/15H, if any to CCIT or CIT for declarations received in the month of August 2025, if any

5

30.09.2025

Income tax

Filing of Income tax return for the Corporate assesses (or) Non-Corporate assesses (Whose books of accounts are required to be audited U/s 44AB of IT act 1964 (or) working partner (of a firm whose books of accounts required to be audit (in case of Assesses not having international or specified domestic transaction). (All Sasken Trust Returns must be filed)

Due date of Filing Form 10B for exempted Institution

6

15.09.2025

Income Tax

Payment of Advance tax for the Corporate and Non Corporate assesses –Amount not less than 45% of tax payable respectively.

 

 

7.         30.09.2025       Income tax        Form 10BB of Charitable Trust         

8.         15.09.2025       Income Tax       ITR filing for  Trust with no audit. 

Monday, 25 August 2025

Understanding the Tax Mystery Around Voluntary ESOP Compensation in India

 Employee Stock Option Plans (ESOPs) are a popular way for companies, especially startups, to reward and retain employees. They give employees the right to buy company shares at a fixed price in the future. However, sometimes unexpected events—like a corporate restructuring—can reduce the value of these ESOPs even before employees get a chance to use them.

Ind AS 2nd Amendment Rules, 2025

 The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has notified the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards) Second Amendment Rules, 2025, introducing significant updates across 12 Ind AS standards. These changes, effective from 1 April 2025, aim to align Indian accounting practices more closely with international norms (IFRS), while enhancing transparency and legal clarity in financial reporting.

How Foreign Travel Expenses Impact Your Taxes

 

If you’re planning an overseas vacation and spend more than ₹2 lakh on foreign travel, you must file an Income Tax Return (ITR)—even if you don’t have taxable income. This requirement, introduced under the seventh proviso to Section 139(1) of the Income Tax Act, ensures that high-value foreign transactions are disclosed to the tax department.

Friday, 22 August 2025

Presidential Assent Granted to Revised Income Tax (No. 2) Bill 2025 and The Taxation Laws (Amendment) Bill 2025

 The Government of India has completed a major step in overhauling direct tax legislation. The Revised Income Tax (No. 2) Bill, 2025 (Revised ITB 2025) and the Taxation Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025 have both received Presidential Assent on 21 August 2025, making them law.

Saturday, 16 August 2025

Service Tax on Export of Services: End of an Era, Finally!!!

The levy of service tax in India, initially an unlisted subject under the Constitution, began as a selective tax in 1994 on a handful of services, expanding significantly to over 100 taxable services by 2012. In July 2012, to streamline the process and address ambiguities, the law transitioned to a 'negative list' regime, taxing all services unless explicitly exempted. However, this transition did not entirely resolve the complexities surrounding the "export of services".

ITAT Mumbai on Dividend Distribution Tax

 In a significant ruling, the Mumbai bench of the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) has addressed the complex issue of Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) in the case of Polycab India Ltd. v. ACIT (2025). The matter revolved around dividends paid by Polycab India to the International Finance Corporation (IFC), an entity that enjoys complete immunity from Indian taxes under the IFC Act, 1958. The key question was whether DDT, though levied on the distributing company, could apply in situations where the shareholder itself is internationally tax-immune.

Key Highlights of International Taxation Case Law (April – June 2025)

The April–June 2025 quarter witnessed several important judicial rulings in international taxation, shaping the interpretation of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs) and cross-border transactions. Courts and tribunals across India clarified the scope of royalty, fees for technical services (FTS), permanent establishment (PE), and capital gains taxation for foreign entities.

Revised Income Tax Bill 2026: Key Changes and Their Impact

 The Indian Parliament has replaced the previous Income Tax Bill with a revised version, aimed at removing ambiguities and aligning the law with the existing Income Tax Act. The new bill is expected to simplify the complex tax structure and reduce compliance burdens. Here's an overview of some important provisions in the revised bill, effective from April 1, 2026:

Wednesday, 6 August 2025

Mumbai ITAT Rules in Favor of Deduction for ESOP and ISOP Costs – A Landmark Decision

 On 31st July 2025, the Mumbai Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) delivered a significant ruling in the case of Procter & Gamble Hygiene and Health Care Limited, which has far-reaching implications on the tax treatment of employee stock-based compensation.

Key Issue

Lupin Buyback Case: Tribunal Says No Tax Under Section 56(2)(viia)

In a recent case, the Mumbai Income Tax Tribunal ruled in favor of Lupin Investments Pvt. Ltd., stating that buyback of a company’s own shares is not taxable under Section 56(2)(viia) of the Income Tax Act.

🔍 Background

  • In 2016, Lupin bought back its own shares from shareholders and cancelled them.

  • The tax officer (AO) claimed the shares were bought at a lower value than their fair market value and tried to apply Section 56(2)(viia) to tax the difference.

  • The officer calculated a tax addition of ₹34.71 crore.

🧾 Tribunal's View

  • Section 56(2)(viia) applies only when a company or firm receives shares of another company at a lower value.

  • Since Lupin bought back its own shares, the shares didn’t become its “property,” and they weren’t from another company.

  • So, this section doesn’t apply to buybacks.

🏛️ Issue of Assessment Order

  • The first tax order was issued in the name of Zyma Laboratories, which no longer existed after merging with Lupin.

  • That order was unsigned and considered invalid.

  • A second, signed order was issued in Lupin’s name and was accepted as valid.

✅ Key Takeaways

  • Buybacks of own shares are not taxable under Section 56(2)(viia).

  • Tax orders must be properly issued in the name of the correct and existing company.

India’s Supreme Court Ruling May Lead to More Taxes for Foreign Companies

India’s Supreme Court recently ruled that Hyatt International Southwest Asia Ltd., a company based in the UAE, has a "permanent establishment" (PE) in India. This means Hyatt may now have to pay taxes on its Indian income, even though it didn’t have a physical office or full-time staff in the country.

HC upholds validity of consolidated show cause notice issued for multiple financial years

 This Tax Alert summarizes the recent ruling of the Delhi High Court (HC) on validity of consolidated show cause notice (SCN) issued for multiple financial years.

Wednesday, 30 July 2025

TAX DUE DATE - AUGUST 2025

 

Sl. No

Due Date

Related to

Compliance to be made

1

11.08.2025

GST

Filing of GSTR – 1 for the month of July 2025

2

31.08.2025

Income Tax

Filing of Form 10 of Charitable Trust

3

13.08.2025

ISD

Filing for the month of July 2025

4

20.08.2025

GST

Payment & filing of GST return for the Month of July 2025 - Form GSTR 3B

5

07.08.2025

TDS/TCS

(Income Tax)

· Deposit TDS for payments of Salary, Interest, Commission or Brokerage, Rent, Professional fee, payment to Contractors, etc. during the month of July 2025.

· Deposit TDS from Salaries deducted during the month of July 2025

• Deposit TCS for collections made under section 206C including sale of scrap during the month of July 2025, if any

• Deliver a copy of Form 15G/15H, if any to CCIT or CIT for declarations received in the month of July 2025, if any

Tuesday, 29 July 2025

HC holds Show Cause Notice cannot be clubbed and issued for more than one financial year

This Tax Alert summarizes the recent ruling of the Madras High Court (HC)  on bunching of show cause notices (SCN) for multiple financial years (FY).


In the present case a single SCN was issued, and a single assessment order was passed by the assessing authority for six financial years, i.e. from FY 2017-18 to 2022-23. Aggrieved, the petitioner approached HC by filing a writ petition.

The key observations of the HC are:

Monday, 28 July 2025

Supreme Court rules that continuous and substantive control over operations of Indian entity establishes Fixed Place PE


This Tax Alert summarizes a two-judge bench Supreme Court (SC) ruling, in the case of Hyatt International Southwest Asia Ltd. (Taxpayer). The main issue under consideration before the SC was whether the activities of the Taxpayer (a Dubai-based company) under a Strategic Oversight Services Agreements (SOSA) entered into with various hotels in India led to the creation of a Fixed Place Permanent Establishment (PE) in India under Article 5(1) of India-UAE Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA). Under the SOSA, the Taxpayer provided strategic planning services and know-how to hotels in India to ensure that the hotels were developed and operated as an efficient and a high-quality international full-service hotel.

Friday, 25 July 2025

HC rules secondment of employees not taxable under GST

 This Tax Alert summarizes a recent ruling of the Karnataka High Court (HC) [1] regarding taxability under reverse charge on secondment of employees from overseas related entity.

Sunday, 20 July 2025

Advantage of ESOP thru Trust.


·       In case of direct issuance , there is a time lag of more than a month when employees exercise the option and when he finally gets the shares in his Dmat account. This time can be reduce to a week in a case of trust and this help employees to avoid price fluctuation.

Thursday, 17 July 2025

Refund of DDT

 In the case of Polycab India Ltd. (Mumbai ITAT), the Tribunal allowed a refund of DDT paid on dividends distributed to International Finance Corporation (IFC), citing its immunity under Section 9 of Article VI of the IFC Act, 1958. The judgment interpreted that when an entity enjoys complete tax exemption, such exemption should extend fully to include dividends received, thereby making the distributing company (Polycab) eligible for a DDT refund on that portion.

Saturday, 12 July 2025

50% Disallowance on Cash Receipts Above Rs. 200,000

🔹 New Tax Provision Introduced via Finance Act 2025

The Finance Act 2025 has introduced a significant amendment to Section 21 of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, by inserting a new clause (s). Under this provision, 50% of the business expenditure related to sales will be disallowed if the payment is received in cash exceeding Rs. 200,000 per invoice.

Is Section 50AA Applicable to MLDs?

1. Introduction

Section 50AA of the Income-tax Act, 1961, was introduced through the Finance Act, 2023, and is effective from Assessment Year 2024–25. It specifically governs the taxation of gains arising from the transfer or redemption of Market Linked Debentures (MLDs).

CBDT Clarifies: Interest Waiver Allowed for Periods Prior to Circular 5/2025

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has issued Circular No. 8/2025 dated 01.07.2025, providing much-needed clarity on the applicability of interest waivers under Sections 201(1A)(ii) and 206C(7) of the Income-tax Act. This clarification addresses doubts raised after the issuance of Circular No. 5/2025, dated 28.03.2025.

Monday, 7 July 2025

Key International Taxation Challenges for the IT-ITES Industry: Latest Developments

 The IT-ITES industry continues to face critical international taxation challenges that impact its global competitiveness and ease of doing business. Recent developments indicate progress, driven largely by sustained industry advocacy.

Thursday, 3 July 2025

A Unique Tax Compliance Dilemma: When the Law Does Not Demand Tax, but the System Blocks Compliance

 In recent times, an unusual but significant problem has emerged that exposes the gap between legislative intent and technological execution within our tax compliance ecosystem. It concerns the procedural hurdles faced by tenants attempting to comply with TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) obligations on rent payments, particularly involving Form 26QC under the TRACES portal.

CBDT Issues Clarification on Waiver of Interest for Delay in TDS/TCS Deposits — Circular No. 8/2025

 CBDT vide Circular No. 8/2025 dated 01 July 2025 has provided a clarification in respect of waiver of interest levied under section 201(1A)(ii)/206C(7) (i.e. interest in relation to delay in deposit of TDS/TCS), in pursuance of Circular No. 05/2025 dated 28 March 2025. The said Circular was related to waiver of interest levied due to delay in TDS/TCS depositions for which the payments were initiated and amounts were debited on or before the due date from the bank accounts of the deductor/collector, however the same was not credited to the account of the Central Government before the due date, due to technical glitches.

India–Oman DTAA Gets a Major Upgrade!

 A new Protocol to the tax treaty between India and Oman came into force on May 20, 2025, bringing the agreement into line with BEPS standards, the UN Model Convention, and modern anti-abuse principles.

Tuesday, 1 July 2025

GST Update

 Regulatory Updates

  • GSTAT Procedure Rules Clarified: A corrigendum issued for the GST Appellate Tribunal Procedure Rules, 2025, introduces technical amendments, ensuring clarity regarding overriding provisions and correction of form references.

Monday, 30 June 2025

TAX DUE DATE - JULY 2025

 

Sr No

Due Date

Related to

Compliance to be made

1

11.07.2025

GST

Filing of GSTR – 1 for the month of June 2025

2

20.07.2025

GST

Payment and Filing the GSTR – 3B for the month of June 2025

3

07.07.2025

TDS/TCS

(Income Tax)

Deposit TDS for payments of Salary, Interest, Commission or Brokerage, Rent, Professional fee, payment to Contractors, etc. during the month of June 2025.

Deposit TDS from Salaries deducted during the month of June 2025

Deposit TCS for collections made under section 206C including sale of scrap during the month of June 2025, if any

Deliver a copy of Form 15G/15H, if any to CCIT or CIT for declarations received in the month of June 2025, if any

4

31.07.2025

TDS/TCS

(Income Tax)

Furnish quarterly statement of tax deducted at source (TDS) and tax collected at source (TCS) for the quarter ended June 2025 in Form 24Q / 26Q / 27Q / 27EQ.

Thursday, 26 June 2025

Introduction of Invoice Management System (IMS)

Background

 

As you may be aware, multiple advisories have been issued over the past months regarding IMS. Below is a summary of the advisories for your quick reference:

 

Hard locking of auto-populated values in GSTR-3B

 This is to apprise you of a recent advisory dated 7 June 2025, introduced on the GSTN portal, which proposes the implementation of hard locking of auto-populated liability in GSTR-3B, effective from July 2025 tax period.

 

CBIC clarifies the procedure for review revision and appeal against orders passed by Common Adjudicating Authorities

 This Tax Alert summarizes a recent Circular1 issued by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), regarding the authorities responsible for review, revision, and appeals against the Order-in-Original (OIO) passed by Common Adjudicating Authority (CAA) where Show Cause Notices (SCNs) have been issued by the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI).

Saturday, 21 June 2025

Centralized Procurement and Transfer Pricing: Key Insights for MNEs

In today’s global business environment, many multinational enterprises (MNEs) adopt centralized procurement models to gain efficiency and cost savings. However, such structures come under close scrutiny from tax authorities worldwide due to their transfer pricing implications.

Directorate of Public Grievances to cover cases related to taxation:

1. Background:

Till now complaints involving tax were handled through appellate mechanism under statue/ escalation to jurisdictional tax officers and also grievance monitored through the Centralized Public Grievance Redress & Monitoring System (CPGRAMS). These complaint lodged with the CPGRAM have to be resolved within 21 days.

Thinking of Setting Up a Unit in GIFT IFSC for Section 80LA Tax Exemption? Beware of This Hidden Cost!

 Setting up a unit in the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT IFSC) has become increasingly popular among global and Indian businesses seeking tax-efficient structures. One of the biggest attractions is the tax holiday offered under Section 80LA of the Income-tax Act, 1961. However, before you move forward, it's crucial to understand a significant — and often overlooked — caveat.

Section 161 of CGST: A Surgical Tool, Not a Second Chance

In the world of GST litigation, it’s not always the big blunders that land you in trouble. Sometimes, it’s the smallest oversight — a missed date, a copy-paste error — that can spiral into years of courtroom fatigue.

Welcome to the high-stakes reality of Section 161 of the CGST Act, the seemingly simple “rectification” provision that many mistakenly treat as a magic wand.

The Allure of Section 161: Quick Fix or Hidden Trap?

Wednesday, 18 June 2025

Key GST and Customs Updates

Regulatory Highlights

  • DIN Not Needed on Portal Communications: Documents issued via the GST portal with a Reference Number (RFN) are valid even without a Document Identification Number (DIN).

  • Refund Applications Fixed for QRMP Taxpayers: Earlier technical issues for Quarterly Return Monthly Payment (QRMP) scheme taxpayers have been resolved.

Understanding APA vs Safe Harbour Rules in Transfer Pricing

Simple Guide for Multinational Companies in India

Multinational companies often deal with transfer pricing — the pricing of goods and services exchanged between their international entities. Managing this effectively is crucial to avoid tax disputes. In India, two main mechanisms help reduce such risks:

Monday, 16 June 2025

HC holds petitioner entitled to refund of unutilized ITC on closure of business

 This Tax Alert summarizes the recent ruling of the single judge bench of the Sikkim High Court (HC) on refund of unutilized input tax credit (ITC) on closure of business, under Goods and Services Tax (GST).


Petitioner, a manufacturer, discontinued its business in the State of Sikkim and filed for refund of balance unutilized ITC. The refund claim was rejected by the Adjudicating Authority as well as the Appellate Authority. Aggrieved, petitioner filed a writ petition before the HC.

The key observations of the HC are:

Wednesday, 11 June 2025

Summary: GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) – Key Highlights

The Ministry of Finance has notified the GSTAT (Procedure) Rules, 2025, marking a crucial step toward making the GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) operational. The flyer outlines essential procedures, requirements, and timelines for taxpayers preparing to file appeals.

Monday, 9 June 2025

HC holds penalty imposed under Section 122 is a civil liability

This Tax Alert summarizes recent ruling of the Allahabad High Court (HC) on whether the penalty leviable under Section 122 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 (CGST Act) is civil or criminal in nature. Further, whether dropping of proceedings under Section 74 of CGST Act will ipso facto abate the proceedings under Section 122.


The key observations of the HC are:

Friday, 6 June 2025

HC holds penalty u/s 122(1A) of CGST Act can be levied on directors of the company


This Tax Alert summarizes a recent judgement of the Delhi High Court (HC)on imposition of penalty on directors of a company under the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 (CGST Act).

Friday, 30 May 2025

All You Need to Know About GST on Supply to SEZ Units

 The Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime provides a special status to Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in India. Recognized as duty-free enclaves, SEZs are treated as being outside the customs territory of India for trade and taxation purposes. Consequently, supplies made to SEZ units or developers enjoy unique tax treatment under GST law.

Resolution of TDS Credit Mismatch: Introduction of Form 71

 Taxpayers frequently encounter discrepancies between the Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) credits reflected in Form 26AS and the assessment year in which the corresponding income has been offered to tax. Such mismatches are often attributable to differences in timing arising from mercantile accounting practices or delayed deduction/deposit of TDS by the deductor.

Supreme Court Ruling on Accused's Right to Documents under PMLA

 In a significant judgment, the Supreme Court held that individuals accused under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) have the right to access both relied-upon and unrelied-upon documents seized by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). This aligns PMLA procedures with the Criminal Procedure Code (now BNSS, 2023).

Regulatory Updates

  • GST: Auto-population in GSTR-3B Table 3.2 remains editable from April 2025 onwards for better accuracy in inter-state supplies.

  • Customs Tariff Values: Revised for items like palm oil, gold, silver, and areca nuts.

  • Import Restrictions: Certain Bangladeshi goods, including garments and food items, restricted to specific ports.

  • Adjudication Guidelines: Defined for cases involving 100% EOUs with varying duty thresholds.


Key Judicial Decisions

  • Entertainment & Service Tax: Supreme Court upheld concurrent levy on cable/DTH services by states and the center.

  • Pre-deposit via Credit Ledger: Validated by SC; electronic credit ledger can be used for GST appeals.

  • Unjust Enrichment: Not applicable to encashed bank guarantees meant as security.

  • ITC on Buildings: Supreme Court dismissed a review petition; ITC can be availed on buildings treated as “plant”.

  • Customs Valuation: Product support service cost includable in import value.

  • ITC Refund: Permitted even if principal input and output have the same GST rate, due to higher-rated ancillary inputs.

  • Limitation Period: Begins from rectification order date if merged with original adjudication.

  • Rule 36(4) Validity: Restrictions on ITC for unmatched invoices upheld to protect revenue.

  • Intermediary Scope: Service provider acting independently is not an intermediary; ITC refund granted.

SC upholds co-existence of both entertainment tax and service tax levy on broadcasting activities applying Aspect theory

 This Tax Alert summarizes a recent judgement of the Supreme Court (SC) on validity of both State levy (entertainment tax) and Central levy (service tax) w.r.t. same broadcasting activities.


The key observations of the SC are:

Thursday, 29 May 2025

TAX DUE DATE - JUNE 2025

 

S. No

Due Date

Related to

Compliance to be made

1

11.06.2025

GST RET 01

Payment of GST and filing of return for the Month of May 2025

2

13.06.2025

ISD

Filing for the month of May 2025

3

20.06.2025

GST

Payment of GST for the month of May, 2025

Filing of GSTR 3B for the month of May, 2025

4

07.06.2025

TDS/TCS

(Income Tax)

Deposit TDS for payments of Salary, Interest, Commission or Brokerage, Rent, Professional fee, payment to Contractors, etc. during the month of May  2025

Deposit TDS from Salaries deducted during the month of May 2025

Deposit TCS for collections made under section 206C including sale of scrap during the month of May  2025, if any

 

5

15.06.2025

Income tax

Payment of Advance tax for the Corporate assesses –Amount not less than 15% of advance tax.

6

30.06.2025

Equalisation levy annual return

Filing of equalisation levy annual return for 24-25

Wednesday, 28 May 2025

CBDT Extends Due Date for Filing Personal Income Tax Returns for FY 2024–25 to 15 September 2025

 Background

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has recently announced an extension of the due date for filing Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for the financial year 2024–25 (assessment year 2025–26), moving the deadline from 31 July 2025 to 15 September 2025. This decision comes in the context of substantial revisions made to the ITR forms and related procedural updates.

Thursday, 22 May 2025

How NRI’s can save tax on their capital gain income.

An NRI Sold Indian Shares Worth ₹10 Crores and Paid ₹0 in Tax. Was he Evading Taxes? No! Here’s How NRIs Legally Pay ₹0 Tax Despite High Capital Gains 👇

 

Monday, 19 May 2025

GST Updates Effective from April 1, 2025: Key Changes for Businesses

 The Government of India has introduced significant GST updates effective April 1, 2025, aimed at simplifying compliance, enhancing security, and improving accuracy in tax reporting. Here's a quick rundown of the major changes:

A Global Minimum Tax Framework: Tackling Digitalisation and Base Erosion

 The rapid digitalisation and globalisation of the economy have created complex challenges for international tax systems. In response, the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework on BEPS (Base Erosion and Profit Shifting) has developed the Global Anti-Base Erosion (GloBE) Model Rules—a coordinated approach aimed at ensuring multinational enterprises (MNEs) pay a fair share of tax, regardless of where they operate.

Transfer Pricing in the HO-PO Model: Key Considerations for Multinationals in India

 As India continues to attract foreign investment, multinational enterprises (MNEs) often choose to operate through a Project Office (PO) model to execute short- to medium-term projects. Under this setup, the Head Office (HO), based abroad, establishes a PO in India to locally manage and deliver projects. Though the HO and PO form part of a single legal entity, Indian tax laws treat them as distinct enterprises for transfer pricing (TP) purposes.

 

Saturday, 17 May 2025

US to Levy 5% Tax on Immigrant Remittances

 A new bill working its way through the U.S. Congress may significantly impact the finances of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and other immigrants. Officially titled “The One Big Beautiful Bill,” the proposed legislation contains a 5% remittance tax on money sent abroad by non-citizens—including H-1B visa holders, green card holders, and other non-immigrant visa categories.

Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) — Simplified

 OCI is one of the least understood components of financial reporting under IFRS. Let’s break it down in a simple, practical way.


🔹 What is OCI?

Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) is part of the total income a business reports, but it’s not part of regular profit or loss. Instead, it captures gains and losses that arise from revaluation, translation, or remeasurement—things that aren’t part of your day-to-day operations.


🔹 Why Does OCI Matter?

It matters because it separates operating performance from changes in asset values or financial instruments. This separation gives a clearer picture of how well a business is truly performing operationally—without distortion from market fluctuations or accounting revaluations.


🔹 Common Examples of OCI Items

Actuarial gains/losses on defined benefit pension plans
Revaluation gains/losses on property, plant, and equipment
Cash flow hedge adjustments
Foreign currency translation differences for foreign operations
Unrealized gains/losses on certain financial instruments (e.g., equity investments classified as FVOCI)


🔹 Simple Examples

  • Asset Revaluation:
    A building owned by the company increases in value—from ₦90 million to ₦150 million.
    The ₦60 million gain doesn’t go into your operating profit—it goes into OCI.
    Why? Because the gain isn’t due to your business performance. It’s a paper gain from revaluation.

  • Investment Loss:
    Your shares in a public company fall in value from ₦8 million to ₦3 million.
    That ₦5 million unrealized loss goes to OCI.
    Again, it’s not because of your business operations—it’s due to market fluctuations.

Saturday, 10 May 2025

Bond Market Trends – April 2025

 In April 2025, Indian bond markets experienced a notable decline in yields across both government securities (G-Secs) and AAA-rated corporate bonds. This trend was driven by improved systemic liquidity, prompted by the Reserve Bank of India's Open Market Operations (OMOs) and increased government spending toward the end of the fiscal year.

Understanding Section 263 of the Income Tax Act, 1961: Power of Revision

 Section 263 of the Income Tax Act empowers the Principal Commissioner of Income Tax (PCIT) to revise an order passed by an Assessing Officer (AO) if two conditions are met simultaneously:

  1. The order is erroneous (i.e., incorrect in law or facts).

Understanding Income Tax Notice under Section 142(1): What You Need to Know

 Receiving a notice from the Income Tax Department can be unsettling, but understanding its purpose and responding correctly can make the process smoother. One such commonly issued notice is under Section 142(1) of the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Friday, 9 May 2025

UK-India Double Contributions Convention (DCC)

On 6 May 2025, India and the UK finalized a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Alongside the FTA, India and the UK have agreed to negotiate a reciprocal Double Contributions Convention (DCC). The DCC will support business and trade by ensuring that employees moving between the UK and India, and their employers, will only be liable to pay social security contributions in one country at a time.

Wednesday, 7 May 2025

UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

 On 6 May 2025, India and the UK finalized a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Government of India has described this as “a historic and ambitious deal to boost jobs, exports, and national growth.” The FTA includes tariff elimination on 99% of Indian tariff lines, covering nearly 100% of trade value, and reduces tariffs on 90% of UK tariff lines, with an estimated annual economic boost of £4.8 billion (US$6.4 billion) for the UK by 2040.

Tuesday, 6 May 2025

HC rules refund cannot be recovered for violation of Rule 96(10) after its omission

 This Tax Alert summarizes a recent ruling of the Uttarakhand High Court (HC) [1] on validity of ongoing proceedings under Rule 96(10) of the Central Goods and Services Tax Rules, 2017 (CGST Rules) after its omission.


Rule 96(10) inter alia provides that a person cannot claim refund of integrated tax paid on export of goods or services if benefit of specified exemption notifications is availed. The said rule was omitted w.e.f. 8 October 2024.

Assessee, engaged in the manufacture of gold bar and jewellery, received a show cause notice on 26 September 2023, for recovery of incorrect refund of IGST in violation to Rule 96(10). The said demand was confirmed vide order dated 3 February 2025. Aggrieved, assessee challenged the order before HC, on the ground that it was issued after Rule 96(10) was omitted.

The key observations of the HC are:

Friday, 2 May 2025

Indirect Tax Regulatory Updates

Regulatory Updates

  • Customs Amendment Rules, 2025: Terms like "certificate" replaced with "proof" of origin to broaden documentation scope.

  • CAROTAR Guidelines Updated: "Proof of Origin" now includes self-declarations; updates made to FTA Cell responsibilities and ICES portal.

Delhi HC holds 10% pre-deposit requirement for penalty-only appeals inapplicable where SCN was issued before amendment

  This Tax Alert summarizes a recent ruling of the Delhi High Court (HC) [1] on whether the newly introduced pre-deposit requirement for fi...