Notification

  • Image

    Join us for an insightful session Navigating Due Diligence for Startups & Investors – 26th June 2025, 3PM onwards.

    Read More
  • Not Able to Find What You’re Looking For? Speak to us directly! Our experts are here to guide you through any queries or challenges.

    Speak to Us

Understanding Valuation Rules for Share Transfers (Post Angel Tax Removal)

With the removal of Section 56(2)(viib), commonly known as Angel Tax, the landscape for startup funding and share transfers has significantly evolved. This update brings relief but also re-emphasizes the importance of complying with valuation norms under various regulatory frameworks. Here’s a simplified yet comprehensive guide to the valuation rules applicable for both primary and secondary share transfers in India.

Primary vs Secondary Share Transfers: What’s the Difference?

AspectPrimary Share IssuanceSecondary Share Transfer
What it meansNew shares issued by a company to raise fundsSale of existing shares between investors
Key ComplianceGoverned by Companies Act, FEMA, and Income Tax ActGoverned by FEMA and Income Tax Act
Valuation RequirementRegistered Valuer (RV) report mandatoryNo RV required, but FMV must be justified

Key Compliance Overview

AspectPrimary Share Issuance (Fresh Issue by Company)Secondary Transfer (Sale of Existing Shares)
Companies Act ComplianceSection 62 of Companies Act, 2013 – Valuation by Registered Valuer (RV) for preferential allotmentNo RV requirement for private transfers, but FMV should be maintained
FEMA ComplianceRule 21 of FEMA (Non-Debt Instruments) Rules, 2019 – Price must be at or above FMV for foreign investorsRule 21 of FEMA (Non-Debt Instruments) Rules, 2019 – Price cannot be below FMV when transferring to a non-resident
Income Tax ComplianceFMV determined as per Rule 11UA (NAV, DCF, and internationally accepted methods)FMV as per Rule 11UA; Capital Gains Tax applies (Short-Term or Long-Term)
Valuation MethodRegistered Valuer Report based on:
– Discounted Cash Flow (DCF): Projects future cash flows and discounts them to present value.
– Net Asset Value (NAV): Determines share value based on net assets of the company.
– Market Price Method: Applicable if shares are listed on a recognized stock exchange.
FMV based on:
– Rule 11UA Methods: Includes NAV, DCF, Comparable Company Multiple, Option Pricing Method, and other internationally accepted methods.
 
Fair Market Value (FMV)FMV is based on Registered Valuer Report as per Companies Act and FEMAFMV is based on transaction price, Rule 11UA, and FEMA guidelines
TaxationNo Angel Tax post Section 56(2)(viib) removalFuture sales attract capital gains taxCapital Gains Tax:
– Short-term (STCG) @20%* if held < 24 months
– Long-term (LTCG) @12.5%* if held ≥ 24 months (Indexation available)*plus applicable surcharge and cess

Need Help Navigating Share Transfer Valuation Rules?

With the removal of Angel Tax, the rules around share transfers have evolved. If you’re unsure about how to value shares or ensure compliance with the latest regulatory frameworks, our experts are here to guide you. Get in touch with us today to navigate the complexities of share transfer valuation and stay compliant with the latest tax regulations.

About the Author
Treelife
Treelife
Treelife Team | support@treelife.in

We are a legal and finance firm with a deep focus on the startup ecosystem. We offer a wide range of services, including Virtual CFO, Legal Support, Tax & Regulatory, and Global Expansion assistance.

Our goal at Treelife is to provide you with peace of mind and ease in business.

We Are Problem Solvers. And Take Accountability.

Related Posts

Are You Paying the Right Tax on Your Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs)? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Filing Your ITR
Are You Paying the Right Tax on Your Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs)? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Filing Your ITR

With India’s growing adoption of cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and tokens, it's critical for investors and traders to understand how these Virtual...

Learn MoreLearn More
Raising Funds from Friends and Family(F&F) – Early-Stage Startups
Raising Funds from Friends and Family(F&F) – Early-Stage Startups

Raising funds from friends and family is a common strategy for early-stage startups, particularly during the initial or pre-revenue phase....

Learn MoreLearn More
Common Legal and Compliance Oversights for Startups in Due Diligence
Common Legal and Compliance Oversights for Startups in Due Diligence

Starting a company is one of the most exciting and challenging journeys an entrepreneur can undertake. Amidst the excitement of...

Learn MoreLearn More

For Customer Support

Mumbai | Delhi |
Bangalore | GIFT City

Speak to Us!

We respond within 60 minutes.

    Your information is confidential and secure

    For Customer Support

    Mumbai | Delhi |
    Bangalore | GIFT City

    Fill out the form to unlock the full report!

    Image