Tax Policy and Controversy Briefing, October 2010 - Ernst & Young - Global

We hope you enjoy this issue, which reflects the continuing pace, complexity and volume of change we are seeing around the world.

Inside this issue

• From the leaders
  Ernst & Young Tax Policy & Controversy leaders Chris Sanger and Rob Hanson discuss changes in the political and economic landscape.
• An interview with Jeffrey Owens, Director of the OECD Centre for Tax Policy and Administration
  The role played by the OECD expanded during the course of the Global Financial Crisis. Jeffrey Owens, Director of the OECD Centre for Tax Policy and Administration, shares his insights.
• Research incentives in the new tax landscape
  A recent global study by Ernst & Young demonstrates how the research incentive landscape is shifting.
• OECD issues a framework for a voluntary Code of Conduct for Banks and Revenue Bodies
  The OECD has published a framework for a Code of Conduct for Banks and Revenue Bodies. We examine the framework and assess the growing demand for taxpayers to voluntarily comply.
• European Commission’s future view of financial services taxation: exploring a Financial Transactions Tax and Financial Activities Tax
  The Commission’s two-pronged approach announced on 7 October supports the idea of a Financial Transactions Tax (FTT) at the global level and a Financial Activities Tax (FAT) at the EU level. With an uphill battle to secure harmonized policy action at the EU level ahead, we review the Commission’s ideas.
• A new chapter in achieving certainty through alternative tax dispute resolution
  There is a growing recognition on both sides that an alternative model for tax dispute resolution is needed. We review alternative dispute resolutions around the world and assess the leading practices for companies to consider.
• Employment taxes: the weighty risk of audit
  As tax administrations around the world increase their enforcement focus, employment taxes are increasingly being seen as &dlquo;low-hanging fruit.” We review the current state of affairs and look at ways to reduce the risk of audit in this area.
• OECD releases new and revised Transfer Pricing Guidelines
  The OECD has concluded two recent initiatives to refine its guidance on transfer pricing. Thomas Borstell reviews the changes and assesses the impact for multinationals.

 See selected country news

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Editors’ note »