Hungary: Tax free capital gains, with opportunity to report previously undisclosed participations

In the complex landscape of international business, holding company structures offer a numerous of advantages, with tax efficiency standing out as a key benefit, e.g. tax free capital gains. This article explores the details of tax-efficient company structures, focusing on the reported share option within the Hungarian tax framework, where capital gains arising from the sale of shares can be tax free. Additionally, it also delves into an attracting opportunity for global minimum tax entities to report their previously undisclosed participations.

Tax Efficiency in Holding Structures

One of the most compelling advantages of holding company structures lies in their potential for tax efficiency. By strategically positioning subsidiaries in jurisdictions with favorable tax laws, businesses can reduce their overall tax burden. This can include lower corporate tax rates, tax credits, and exemptions on certain types of income, e.g. capital gains.

Holding companies can employ various tax optimization strategies to minimize their tax liabilities further. These strategies often involve optimizing the flow of income, expenses, and assets between the holding company and its subsidiaries. Common tactics include transfer pricing, intellectual property management, and leveraging tax treaties between countries.

Benefits of Reported Shares (Participation Exemption, Capital Gains)

The reported share option, also known as participation exemption, presents a significant advantage in the Hungarian tax system. Capital gains arising from the sale of shares (while holding them for a year at least) can be tax free income, providing a tax-friendly environment for entities engaging in share transactions.

The Hungarian Corporate Tax Rules defines reported shares as interests acquired in domestic and foreign legal entities (excluding controlled foreign corporations), subject to certain conditions. Notably, reporting the acquisition within 75 days is a crucial requirement for enjoying the benefits of participation exemption.

The tax rules outline exemptions from reporting, such as when the taxpayer’s existing reported shares increase in nominal value. Additionally, reporting is not required in cases of transformation, merger, or demerger when acquiring shares in the successor company.

Window of Opportunity for Global Minimum Tax Entities

The impending legislative proposal at the Hungarian Parliament introduces a compelling opportunity for global minimum tax entities to report their previously undisclosed participations. Entities qualifying as supplementary taxpayers (for the purposes Global Minimum Tax) can make a one-time disclosure until February 28, 2024, allowing them to treat these participations as reported from the 2023 tax year onwards.

It is also imperative for companies to review their previously reported participations to ensure accurate registrations with the tax authorities, avoiding potential tax consequences due to administrative errors.

Implications for U.S. Companies Holding Hungarian Real Estate

As the applicability of the USA-Hungary Treaty expires at the end of 2023, U.S. companies holding Hungarian real estate face a new tax landscape. Gains derived from the sale of shares in Hungarian real estate holding companies may be subject to Hungarian CIT unless a tax treaty exempts such gains. However, with the reported share option exemption from Hungarian taxation can also be reached still in lack of an applicable tax treaty. However, proper planning is crucial to navigate this change and mitigate potential tax liabilities.

Conclusion

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the tax advantages associated with reported shares in the Hungarian tax system and highlights a time-sensitive opportunity for global minimum tax entities. With the global tax landscape evolving, businesses must stay informed and strategically leverage available options to optimize their tax positions. For specific situations and detailed guidance, consulting with tax professionals is recommended.

Note: The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. For detailed regulations specific to individual cases, it is advisable to consult with tax professionals to ensure accurate and up-to-date information and specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.