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Capital Gains Tax in Singapore: The Complete Guide

If you’re an investor seeking to maximize your profits, understanding the intricacies of capital gains tax is essential. In this guide to capital gains tax (CGT) in Singapore, we provide you with the knowledge and insights to navigate this landscape with confidence. Discover the tax advantages that make Singapore an attractive destination for wealth creation and investment.

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Business owner checking his phone to see the amount of profit his company has made without being taxed with Capital Gains Tax (CGT) in Singapore

Capital gains tax (CGT) is a common form of taxation applied to the profits generated from the sale of capital assets. In many countries, businesses and individuals are required to pay CGT when they sell assets, such as property, shares, or other investments, at a higher price than their original purchase cost. However, Singapore offers a unique approach to capital gains tax, which has significant implications for businesses and investors alike. In this comprehensive guide, we will examine the details of capital gains tax in Singapore, its advantages, and the key criteria that determine its applicability.

Understanding Capital Gains Tax

What is Capital Gains Tax?

Capital gains tax is a levy imposed on the profits or gains realized from the sale of capital assets. This tax applies when an asset is sold at a higher price than its original purchase cost. Examples of capital assets include properties, shares, foreign exchange, and digital assets.

Capital Gains Tax in Singapore

Singapore does not impose capital gains tax on its businesses and residents, with certain exceptions. This means that individuals and companies can sell capital assets such as property, shares, intangible assets, and foreign exchange on capital transactions without being taxed on the profits realized. 

In a business context, it is important that gains from the appreciation of assets will not lead to an additional tax liability by the end of the financial period. For example, if the market value of the building that the company owns goes up and the company realizes the gain on its sale, there will be no tax on this gain. However, if the core business of the company is buying and selling properties, then the profit arising from the difference between purchase and sale prices will be taxed. 

Essentially, certain conditions and criteria must be met for a gain to be considered tax-free.

Criteria for Taxable Capital Gains

Although Singapore does not have a formal capital gains tax, the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) has established specific criteria to determine whether profits from the sale of assets should be considered tax-free capital gains or taxable trading income. The following key factors are taken into consideration:

Holding Period

The holding period refers to the time elapsed between the initial purchase of the asset and its subsequent sale. A short holding period may indicate that the primary purpose of the transaction was to generate profit, and the gain may be subject to tax.

Frequency of Transactions

A high frequency of transactions involving the buying and selling of similar assets may be subject to capital gains tax. This is particularly relevant for businesses that trade in assets as part of their core operations.

Reason for Transaction

The motive behind the transaction should be assessed to determine if the asset was acquired for its intended purpose or solely for profit generation. If the latter is true, the gains may be subject to tax.

Enhancement Work

If a significant amount of money is spent on renovating or improving an asset before its sale, the resulting gains may be subject to tax, as this could indicate a profit-seeking motive.

Reason for Sale

The circumstances behind the sale of an asset will also be evaluated by the IRAS. If a property is sold due to government-imposed acquisition or liquidation of assets resulting from business decline, capital gains tax will not be levied.

The "Safe Harbour" Rule

The “safe harbour” rule is a provision that exempts certain gains from capital gains tax under specific conditions. This rule applies to disposals of ordinary shares and equity investments made between 1 June 2012 and 31 May 2022. To qualify for the safe harbour rule, the following criteria must be met:

Shareholding Percentage

The divesting company must hold at least 20% of the ordinary shares in the disposing company.

Holding Period

The divesting company must maintain a minimum 20% share ownership for at least 24 months before the disposal.

If these conditions are not met, the IRAS will assess the gains or losses from the disposal against the six badges of trade criteria to determine the tax treatment.

Let’s take a look at a sample scenario. If a company sells 30% of its shares in another company that it has held for more than two years and meets the minimum 20% ownership requirement, then the sale is exempt from capital gains tax under the Safe Harbour Rule.

Capital Gains Tax Exemptions for Specific Transactions

In certain cases, exemptions from capital gains tax may apply to specific transactions. These exemptions include:

Forced Sales

If a property is sold due to government-imposed acquisition or liquidation of assets resulting from business decline, capital gains tax will not be levied.

Share Disposals under the Safe Harbour Rule

As mentioned earlier, the “safe harbour” rule exempts certain gains from capital gains tax under specific conditions, such as disposals of ordinary shares and equity investments.

Tax Planning for Capital Gains Tax in Singapore

Proper tax planning is crucial to minimize exposure to capital gains tax in Singapore. Some strategies that can be employed include:

Utilizing Annual Tax-Free Allowance

Every individual has an annual tax-free allowance on profits from capital assets. It is possible to split any profits across two tax years to help reduce your capital gains tax bill.

Transferring Gains to Spouse or Partner

Another option is to transfer any gains to your spouse or partner to reduce your liability. This strategy requires the advice of an expert to ensure your affairs are arranged properly.

Allowances and Reliefs for Capital Gains Tax in Singapore

Several allowances and reliefs are available to help reduce or eliminate your capital gains tax bill in Singapore. These include:

Rollover Relief

Rollover relief is available exclusively for business assets. This relief can be claimed when the profits from the sale of business assets are used wholly or in part to fund the purchase of new assets. This means that you will not be liable for capital gains tax until the new asset or assets are sold for profit. Certain conditions apply, including the requirement to purchase new assets within three years of selling the old ones and actively trading in your business.

Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) Reinvestment Relief

The Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) offers capital gains tax relief when profits realized within three years are reinvested into the scheme. Some complexities may apply, such as your tax rate, so it is advisable to consult a specialist.

Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS)

Similar to the SEIS, the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) provides tax reliefs to investors who buy shares in a company. The specific reliefs available depend on the state of the company in question. Consulting an expert is recommended.

Entrepreneurs Relief (ER) or Business Asset Disposal Relief

Entrepreneurs Relief (ER), now known as Business Asset Disposal Relief, allows for the reduction of capital gains tax liabilities when part or all of your business is sold. You will only be required to pay 10% capital gains tax on profits from qualifying assets, which include the sale of all or part of your business or shares where you own at least 5% of the share capital. Your eligibility for Entrepreneurs Relief depends on the type of assets sold for profit and requires the advice of a specialist.

Other Considerations for Capital Gains Tax Planning

In addition to utilizing reliefs and allowances, there are other factors that you must consider when planning for your capital gains tax obligations, such as:

Tax Residence and Sale of Residential Property 

Even if you are not a resident in Singapore for tax purposes, you may still need to pay capital gains tax if you sell a residential property in the country. If you have assets established while overseas, selling or gifting them while still a non-resident may help avoid capital gains tax. The length of time spent abroad may also impact your exposure to capital gains tax.

Using Full Annual Exemption

Your annual capital gains tax exemption allowance cannot be carried forward, so it is essential to utilize as much of it as possible each year.

Benefits of Zero Capital Gains Tax

Singapore’s zero capital gains tax policy offers a significant strategic advantage for businesses and individuals. This tax policy encourages investment in the country by boosting share prices, increasing investment, and promoting entrepreneurship. As a result, Singapore has become an attractive destination for businesses and investors looking to maximize their returns while minimizing their tax liabilities.

Conclusion

In general, Singapore tax regulation provides a very beneficial treatment of capital gains, which can make investing in different assets and businesses in this country attractive. Understanding capital gains tax in Singapore is essential for businesses and investors to maximize their tax incentives and maintain compliance with local tax laws. With proper planning and consultation with tax professionals, you can take full advantage of Singapore’s zero capital gains tax policy and enjoy the strategic benefits it offers. At Intracorp, we provide all the expert guidance you need to maximize the benefits of tax incentives while maintaining compliance with local tax legislation. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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