Potential dividend deductions by banks or other covered persons

Currently banks or other covered persons must, subject to certain exclusions, include in or deduct from their Statement of Comprehensive Income all amounts from qualifying financial assets and financial liabilities that are recognised as profits or losses.

27 Feb 2020 1 min read Special Budget Speech Alert Article

However, currently this deeming provision does not apply to a financial asset that is a share or a dividend received by or accrued to a bank or a covered person.

Investors have been offered the opportunity to subscribe for shares in a special purpose vehicle that is introduced between the investor and a covered person. In other words, this entity will issue shares to an investor and pay dividends to the investor. These dividends will be exempt. However, it will receive interest or other income in respect of the financial assets which would be deductible. Higher returns can therefore be paid to the investor.

It has now been proposed that the exclusion pertaining to dividends will no longer apply. In other words, the question is whether these dividends will in future become taxable. This could have a substantial effect on the ultimate return to the investor.

The information and material published on this website is provided for general purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. We make every effort to ensure that the content is updated regularly and to offer the most current and accurate information. Please consult one of our lawyers on any specific legal problem or matter. We accept no responsibility for any loss or damage, whether direct or consequential, which may arise from reliance on the information contained in these pages. Please refer to our full terms and conditions. Copyright © 2024 Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr. All rights reserved. For permission to reproduce an article or publication, please contact us cliffedekkerhofmeyr@cdhlegal.com.