05 June 2015
Legal Query
I have formed Newly Incorporated Private Company for software related services, I will be providing my services on basis of project fees as it is done.
Point is that there are 5 of my clients who need to hire our Company as their IT departments in return of providing me 15% shareholding in each of their firm
This shareholding is I am ready to accept.
Now what will be Compliance Related Procedure
and taxes applicable or if put in single sentence-What will happen next? is this a viable option? I'm 100% on board with it.
If not possible can we do businees as a Joint Venture or Associate what will be next possible choice
19 July 2024
It sounds like you're exploring a scenario where your newly incorporated private company would provide IT services to clients in exchange for receiving a 15% shareholding in each client's firm. This arrangement raises several legal and compliance considerations:
1. **Legal and Compliance Considerations:** - **Shareholding and Corporate Governance:** Accepting shares in other companies as compensation could potentially make your company a shareholder in those firms. This brings responsibilities and rights associated with shareholding, including attending shareholder meetings, voting rights, and financial disclosures. - **Conflict of Interest:** There could be conflicts of interest if your company provides IT services to companies in which it holds a significant shareholding. This needs to be carefully managed to avoid any perceived or actual conflicts. - **Regulatory Requirements:** Depending on the jurisdiction (country/state), there might be specific regulations governing such shareholding arrangements. You would need to comply with corporate laws and regulations regarding shareholding and related-party transactions.
2. **Tax Implications:** - **Income Tax:** Any shares received as compensation could potentially have income tax implications. You would need to assess whether this would be treated as income or as a capital gain when you eventually sell these shares. - **Valuation of Shares:** The value of the shares received would need to be determined for tax purposes at the time they are received.
3. **Business Structure Options:** - **Joint Venture or Associate:** Instead of accepting shareholding, you could consider structuring the relationship as a joint venture or an associate relationship. This would involve a contractual agreement outlining the terms of collaboration, responsibilities, profit-sharing, etc., without directly involving ownership in each other's companies.
4. **Legal Advice:** - Given the complexities involved in such arrangements, it is strongly advisable to seek legal advice from a corporate lawyer who can provide guidance specific to your jurisdiction and the details of your situation. They can help structure the arrangement in a compliant and beneficial manner for all parties involved.
In summary, while the option of accepting shareholding in lieu of project fees is viable, it requires careful consideration of legal, regulatory, and tax implications. Alternatives like joint ventures or associate relationships may also be explored depending on the specific needs and circumstances of your business and your clients. Consulting with a legal and tax advisor will be crucial to ensure that the arrangement is structured correctly and complies with all applicable laws and regulations.