Expert Analysis

Andre Schaffers and Filip Vanluydt of Deloitte explain the concept of embedded intellectual property (IP), providing detailed guidelines for readers on how to identify and quantify it.

We have seen a strong start to 2018 in terms of M&A activity, write Jon Vine and Greg Smith of Deloitte. Mergers and acquisitions invariably involve a range of complex tax issues. While these continue to include matters such as acquisition structuring, financing and structurally integrating the acquired business, the complexity and range of transfer pricing (TP) issues which arise in the M&A context should not be underestimated.

The Tokyo District Court recently issued two judgments regarding transfer pricing (TP) cases, both in relation to the treatment of intangibles. These decisions provide insights into how the Japanese tax authorities will evaluate intangibles when dealing with TP issues in audits going forward, explain Yutaka Kitamura and Jun Sawada of Deloitte.

José Maria Cabral Sacadura and Vicente Pirrone of Cuatrecasas analyse the Sofina line of CJEU case law and assess when Portuguese withholding tax rules entitle foreign loss‑making companies to reimbursement

Olebogeng Ramatlhodi, Africa indirect tax leader, Deloitte Africa

Interview with Marjolijn van der Wal, partner, indirect tax, Deloitte Netherlands

Antonio Ruiz and Alejandra Arguedas of EY Central America, Panama and Dominican Republic explain how tax, geopolitical factors, and trade agreements shape foreign investment in Central America, offering guidance for companies navigating the region

David Hamzah Damian of DDTC Consulting examines recent procedural changes in Indonesia’s tax disputes process and the Supreme Court’s stance on tax evidence, highlighting key implications for taxpayers facing audits, objections, and appeals

Eddie Morris, Josep Serrano Torres, and Jen Breeze of Deloitte compare transfer pricing controversies in the pharmaceutical and automotive sectors, highlighting how DEMPE functions, regulation, and intangibles drive both common themes and sector-specific challenges

Diana Lupu and Ana-Maria Nițu of EY Romania explain when entities subject to the global minimum tax can transition to IFRS, the key benefits and challenges, and the implications for financial reporting and compliance

Several South Korean transfer pricing cases have established clearer judicial standards emphasising robust comparability analysis and stronger functional and economic evidence. Yulchon tax partners provide practical insights for navigating the heightened requirements

Ichwan Sukardi and T Qivi Hady Daholi of RSM Indonesia examine how geopolitical conflict and economic volatility are reshaping transfer pricing risk and enforcement, with a particular focus on Southeast Asia and Indonesia