U.S. Tariffs Are Changing the Game — Is Your Tax Strategy Ready?

U.S. Tariffs Are Changing the Game — Is Your Tax Strategy Ready?

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On 2 April 2025, the U.S. announced a sweeping shift in trade policy— “reciprocal tariffs”, including a baseline 10% tariff on imports, with certain goods subject to even higher rates.

 

This policy change is expected to have substantial ripple effects globally, especially in Asia’s trade-dependent economies like Singapore and Malaysia, reshaping the trade flows, supply chain arrangements and cross-border operations.

 

In this evolving landscape, businesses must remain agile, not just in their operations but also in their financial and tax strategies. The changing trade dynamics present both challenges and opportunities, prompting a need to reassess both indirect and direct tax considerations.

 

In this edition of our newsletter, we explore how businesses in Asia can respond proactively to these developments:

 
  • Indirect tax considerations: Adapting to changing trade flows
  • Direct tax considerations: Rethinking cross-border transfer pricing
  • Proactive tax planning: Building long-term resilience
Stay ahead of the curve and click below to download our newsletter now.
 
READ THE FULL REPORT
 

We are here to support you through these changes with tailored solutions to optimise both indirect and direct tax strategies.

You can CONTACT US and let us help you navigate these changes and turn challenges into growth opportunities.

 

 
 
 

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Stay ahead of ACRA Deadlines & Compliance Requirements for XBRL and Annual Returns

Stay ahead of ACRA Deadlines & Compliance Requirements for XBRL and Annual Returns

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Stay ahead of ACRA Deadlines and Compliance Requirements for Annual Returns and XBRL  


The annual filing season for Singapore-incorporated companies with a financial year ending 31 March 2025 is fast approaching. As a reminder, all Singapore-incorporated companies are required by law to file their Annual Returns (AR) with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) after holding their Annual General Meetings (AGM), if applicable.

Additionally, companies must file their financial statements in XBRL format, unless exempted.

To ensure compliance and avoid penalties, it is crucial to hold your AGM and submit your AR and financial statements early. Below are the key deadlines you should be aware of:

 

Company’s Financial Year End:
31 March 2025

Deadline for holding the company’s AGM

Deadline for submission of Annual Returns together with financial statements (in XBRL format)

 

Listed Company

31 July 2025 

31 August 2025

Non-listed Company

3​​​​0 September 2025 

31 October 2025

 

 

Navigating ACRA Compliance with Confidence: Engaging BoardRoom’s XBRL Services for ACRA Filing
 

Navigating ACRA’s compliance requirements and XBRL data conversion can be a complex task. At BoardRoom, we streamline this process for you by assisting in mapping your financial data to the precise XBRL format required for ACRA submission.

Click on the button below to learn more about the upcoming deadlines for your AGM and AR, and how we can support you with our XBRL data mapping, XBRL conversion, or any aspect of your ACRA filing. 

 
LEARN ABOUT OUR XBRL SERVICES
 

We are here to support you every step of the ACRA compliance journey so you can focus on what matters most — growing your business.

Alternatively, you can CONTACT US to find out how we can assist you with your ACRA compliance requirements.

 

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Stay Ahead of Compliance Changes: Join Our Exclusive Webinar!


As regulations in Singapore and Malaysia evolve, staying compliant with financial reporting and e-invoicing is critical to avoid penalties and ensure smooth operations.

Join us for a webinar where we’ll share expert insights and strategies to help you stay ahead.

Webinar Highlights:

  • Real-World Case Studies
    Learn from case studies of businesses navigating compliance with Singapore’s XBRL and Malaysia’s MBRS 2.0.
  • E-Invoicing Updates
    Get the latest updates on Malaysia’s revised timeline, self-billed invoices, and goods importation.
  • Risks of Non-Compliance
    Understand the serious consequences of failing to meet regulatory requirements in XBRL and MBRS 2.0.
  • Expert Guidance
    Discover how we can help you ensure a smooth, compliant transition.


Secure your spot to stay ahead of regulatory changes and avoid costly mistakes.


Register today!

 

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Deadlines for Hong Kong 2024/25 Annual Filing

Deadlines for Hong Kong 2024/25 Annual Filing

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As the annual tax filing season approaches, please be reminded of the upcoming deadlines for filing both your Employer's Return and Profits Tax Return. While the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has granted an extended filing deadline for Profits Tax Returns under the Block Extension Scheme for tax representatives, the deadline for filing the Employer's Return remains unchanged. 

 
 

Employer’s Return

The Employer’s Returns of Remuneration and Pensions (Form BIR56A) for the year ended 31 March 2025 will be issued on 1 April 2025. Please note that the Block Extension Scheme does not apply to Employer’s Returns.

Employers are required to complete and file the returns within one month from 1 April 2025, along with Form(s) IR56B to report remuneration paid to employees and directors for duties performed both inside and outside Hong Kong during the tax year (1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025).

Additionally, if you have any new hires or terminated employees, you must submit the relevant Form IR56E, Form IR56F or Form IR56G.

 

Remuneration Period

Original Deadline

Extended Deadline

1 April 2024 – 31 March 2025

2 May 2025

No extension

 

What happens if I miss the deadline?

Failure to submit the Employer’s Return within the specified timeframe may result in a fine of HK$10,000 (Level 3 fine), and the court may order additional penalties.

 
 

Profits Tax Return

The bulk issue of 2024/25 Profits Tax returns for corporations and partnerships will be sent out on 1 April 2025 for active cases and 2 April 2025 for inactive cases.

Please note that filing deadlines have been segregated and extended under the Block Extension Scheme according to the different accounting date codes for taxpayers who have appointed tax representatives.

 

Accounting Date / Code

Original Deadline

Extended Deadline

1 April 2024– 30 November 2024 (Code “N”)

2 May 2025

No extension

1 December 2024 – 31 December 2024 (Code “D”)2 May 202515 August 2025
1 January 2025 – 31 March 2025 (Code “M”)2 May 202517 November 2025

 

What happens if I miss the deadline?

What happens if I miss the deadline? Failure to file a Profits Tax Return within the statutory time limit or the filing of an incorrect Profits Tax Return is an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine at level 3 (i.e. HK$10,000), and a further fine of treble the undercharged amount.

In addition, every company that has derived net assessable profits for any year of assessment must inform the IRD in writing that it is so chargeable, not later than four months after the end of the basis period for that year of assessment unless it has already been required to furnish a Profits Tax Return. A company that fails to notify chargeability without reasonable excuses shall be guilty of an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of HK$10,000 (Level 3 fine), and a further fine of three times the undercharged amount.

The IRD may also issue estimated assessments and impose further penalties for late filing or any non-compliance.

 
 

​​​​​​Need help preparing the form?

If you need assistance with preparing or submitting the tax returns, our team is here to help! Simply reach out to your client manager or click the button below to contact us.
 

CONTACT US
 

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Embark on a Digital Journey—Discover the Power of BSIP

Embark on a Digital Journey—Discover the Power of BSIP

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We’re going digital, and we’re inviting you to join us!

 

Payment to Scrip Investors  

At BoardRoom, we know that dividend payments via cheques can slow you down. That’s why we’ve developed the BoardRoom Smart Investor Portal (BSIP) — a next-gen platform designed to simplify shareholder interactions and payment management. 

BSIP offers a seamless way for companies and shareholders to simplify the entire process — especially when it comes to local & cross-border e-payments.

 

A Unified Portal for CDP & Scrip Investors  

We're bringing everything together in one place, making it easier for public investor to engage registrar services online. Starting with the easy collection of bank details from scrip holders, BSIP will soon expand to serve CDP investors, offering seamless Proxy Voting Submission, Annual Report Request Form, and many more features.

What's more, BSIP gives shareholders a smarter, easier way to correspond and stay connected, offering features such as:
 

Global Dividend Payouts

Payouts are automatically converted into local currencies and seamlessly transferred to banks worldwide, simplifying overseas payments.    

Paperless Convenience

Shareholders can submit all their forms digitally, reducing the need for physical documentation

 

All-in-One Access

Shareholders can view documents and stay informed via a secure, easy-to-use portal.

Upcoming Features for CDP & Scrip Investors 

Features like Proxy Voting, Annual Reports Request Forms, and more, enhancing the overall shareholder experience.

 

Safe, Secure, and Seamless

Security is our top priority, BSIP incorporates the best market practice in cybersecurity. BSIP has gone and will undergo annual audits to be up to date with the Vulnerability Assessment & Penetration Testing (VAPT) certification, so you can trust that your data is safe, always.

Want to learn more about how BSIP can enhance your shareholder experience and make payments easier than ever? 

 
REACH OUT TO OUR TEAM TODAY
 

Alternatively, you can contact us at [email protected] to find out how BSIP will simplify your dividend payments.

 
 

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Is Your Company Compliant with BURSA’s Critical Cyber Risk Guidelines?

Is Your Company Compliant with BURSA’s Critical Cyber Risk Guidelines?

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Bursa Malaysia’s Guidance on Management of Cyber Risks was issued on 22 December 2022. It outlines essential steps for listed companies to take to strengthen cyber resilience. 

Some steps that the board can take include:

  • Taking active ownership of cyber risk management and ensuring clear accountability within senior management
  • Establishing a robust Cyber Risk Management framework, with clearly defined policies and procedures for prevention, detection, and recovery, is crucial for mitigating risks
  • Integrate regular testing of cyber framework, along with continuous learning from global incidents, into your organisation’s strategy
  • Establish an enterprise-wide cybersecurity awareness program—including random staff testing—to ensure readiness

As cyber threats evolve, the urgency for compliance is paramount. 

Read our full report now to learn more about:

  • Governance and management of Cyber Risk
  • Training, testing, and raising awareness in the organisation and,
  • Ensuring your company is aligned to Bursa’s requirements

Please feel free to contact us via email at [email protected] for any queries and clarifications.

Thank you.

                
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MBRS 2.0: New Rules, New Requirements – Is Your Company Prepared?

MBRS 2.0: New Rules, New Requirements – Is Your Company Prepared?

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In 2018, Malaysia introduced the Malaysian Business Reporting System (MBRS), simplifying the online submission of Financial Statements, Annual Returns, and Exemption Applications to Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM).

Fast-forward to the last quarter of 2024 — MBRS 2.0 is about to roll out its final phases, bringing with it, a major shift. All companies must now submit final signed, audited, and unaudited financial statements in eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL) format, setting a new standard for data accuracy and transparency in financial reporting.

As these changes take effect, understanding MBRS 2.0 is essential as non-compliance can lead to penalties and submission delays. Is your company prepared for this new reporting era?

Read our report to find out more about:

  • Why MBRS 2.0 matters for businesses
  • What you need to know about the big change
  • How to be prepared for MBRS 2.0 with BoardRoom
  • How BoardRoom can support your MBRS 2.0 transition
 
READ REPORT
 

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Qualifying Audit Exemption Criteria for Private Companies in Malaysia

Qualifying Audit Exemption Criteria for Private Companies in Malaysia

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The Companies Commission of Malaysia has introduced new audit exemption criteria for private companies.

These criteria were made effective from 1 January 2025. Practice Directive No. 10/2024 outlines updated thresholds that could reduce your company’s audit obligations.

What can you expect from these changes?
  • New thresholds for revenue, assets, and employees that could qualify your business for exemption.
  • Phased implementation over the next three years, with increasing limits for each criterion.
  • Simplified compliance requirements for eligible companies, including the option to submit unaudited financial statements.
  • Opportunities for cost savings by reducing the need for a formal audit.
Is your company eligible? Read our report for the full details. 
READ REPORT

Please feel free to contact us via email at BRMY-[email protected] for any queries and clarifications.

Thank you.

                
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New Bursa Malaysia Amendments: Key Updates on Securities Issuance, Executive Pay & More

New Bursa Malaysia Amendments: Key Updates on Securities Issuance, Executive Pay & More

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Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad (“Bursa Malaysia”) has rolled out pivotal amendments to the Main and ACE Market Listing Requirements (LR) that will transform how companies approach securities issuance, executive remuneration, and transparency in financial reporting. 

These changes, effective from January 2025, aim to:
  • enhance governance
  • ensure greater accountability, and 
  • provide clearer insights for investors
Whether you're involved in fundraising activities, managing employee share schemes, or overseeing corporate disclosures, these updates are crucial for staying compliant and competitive. Discover the key amendments that could impact your organisation and learn how to navigate these new requirements effectively.

Key Amendments

  1. Transparency on new issue of securities

    •    Placement Exercise
    In relation to issuance of placement of securities in stages, announcement by listed issuer simultaneous with the quarterly report on a quarterly basis on:

    a) in respect of each staggered issuance:

    i. the price-fixing date and issuance date;

    ii. the number of securities issued and allotted;

    iii. the issue price and basis of determining the issue price; and 


    b) the aggregate number of securities issued and allotted pursuant to the placement at the end of each quarter.

    •    Placees Details
    The relevant adviser of the listed issuer/ listed corporation is required to submit the following additional information to the Exchange:

    a) the source of funds for the payment of the securities placed to each placee; and

    b) the names, home or business addresses, identity card/ passport/ company registration numbers, occupations/ principal activities and securities account numbers of the ultimate beneficial owner of the securities placed to each placee, if any.

    • Additional disclosures on the utilisation of proceeds

    a) in the case of a new issue of securities for fund-raising purposes, a listed issuer/ listed corporation must announce the status and details relating to utilisation of proceeds on a quarterly basis, simultaneously with the announcement of its quarterly report, until it has announced full utilisation of the proceeds raised; and

    b) the announcement made must include the following information:

    ​​​​i. details of the projects, initiatives or purposes funded by the proceeds, together with their status or progress; and

    ii. the unutilised proceeds, if any, including how the listed issuer has dealt with such proceeds pending utilisation.
  2.  Employee Share Scheme Framework

    • Flexibility accorded to the listed issuer/ listed corporation to implement more than one Share Issuance Scheme. However, total number of shares granted under all Employee Share Schemes is limited to 15% (30% under Ace Market) of total no. of issued shares.

    • Disclosure of Employee Share Scheme in annual report has been enhanced to include aggregate options/shares granted, exercised, vested/remained outstanding, exercise price or purchase price, based on categories of participants.
     
  3. Remuneration Disclosure

    • Enhanced remuneration disclosures in annual reports for Chief Executives, on a named basis.
     
  4.  Convertible Debt Securities

    • Extending 50% limit to convertible debt securities.
     
  5. Restriction in Interim Corporate Proposals

    • Disallowing an affected listed issuer and a PN17 Issuer/ GN3 Company from undertaking interim corporate proposals pending regularisation of its condition, unless allowed by the Exchange.
     
  6. Chain Listing Requirements

    • Adherence to chain listing requirements if a listed issuer wishes to list its subsidiaries on a foreign stock exchange.
     
  7. Special Auditor Appointment

    • Requirements relating to appointment of a special auditor.
     
  8. Comparative Disclosure for Plantation and Timber Corporations (Main Market only)

    • Comparative disclosure of production figures for plantation and timber corporations on quarterly basis, in addition to monthly basis.
     
  9. Updated Issuers Communication Note No. 1/2023 - Guidance on Conflict of Interest (“COI”)

    • Bursa Malaysia has updated the Guidance on COI by providing Q&A in Annexure 1.

Implementation

No.

Amendments

Implementation Dates

a.

Placement Exercises/New Issue of Securities

2 January 2025

b.

Share Grant Schemes

2 January 2025

c.

Convertible Debt Securities

2 January 2025

d.

Annual Reports Disclosures

Applicable to annual reports issued for financial year ending on or after 31 December 2024 onwards

e.

Comparative disclosure for plantation and timber corporations on quarterly basis (Main Market only).

Applicable to quarterly reports issued for financial period ending on or after 31 December 2024 onwards
 

f.

All other amendments

2 January 2025 onwards

                
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Singapore’s XBRL & Malaysia’s MBRS: Unlocking Efficiency in Financial Reporting

Singapore’s XBRL & Malaysia’s MBRS: Unlocking Efficiency in Financial Reporting

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As businesses in our region adapt to the evolving landscape of financial reporting, it’s essential to stay informed about key regulatory developments that enhance transparency and streamline processes.

In Singapore, the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) requires all incorporated companies to submit their financial reporting in eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL). This requirement not only ensures that submissions are structured and machine-readable but also significantly improves data transparency and analysis. Companies must choose from one of four formats —Full XBRL, Simplified XBRL, XBRL FSH for Banks, or XBRL FSH for Insurers. While essential, conversion to XBRL can be complex, requiring careful handling of data to maintain accuracy in reporting.

Meanwhile, in Malaysia, the Companies Commission of Malaysia (CCM) has also implemented a similar requirement, making it mandatory for companies to submit financial statements, annual returns, and exemption applications via the Malaysian Business Reporting System (MBRS). The system employs the XBRL format, enhancing transparency and efficiency while helping companies improve data quality and reduce errors. 

Notably, as of 25th September 2024, Malaysia has launched MBRS 2.0, which introduces enhanced features designed to simplify financial reporting even further. This updated system expands data classification and improves consistency, allowing companies to categorise financial information more accurately and ensuring compliance with CCM regulations.

Here’s an overview of Singapore’s XBRL and Malaysia’s MBRS standards:

 
 
XBRL (Singapore)
MBRS (Malaysia)
Regulatory Body
ACRA
CCM
Introductory Date
2007
(mandatory for filing financial statements)
2018
(introduced as part of CCM’s digital transformation)
Updates in Recent Versions
Enhanced taxonomy, new data points for compliance
MBRS 2.0 enhances taxonomy and compliance features
Coverage
Mandatory for most Singapore-incorporated companies
Mandatory for certain company filings with SSM
(primarily to private limited companies [Sdn. Bhd.])
Scope of Filing
Includes financial statements such as balance sheets, profit and loss accounts in structured XBRL taxonomy
MBRS 2.0 expands beyond financial statements to include compliance reports, non-financial disclosures, and governance-related information.
Filing Platform
BizFinX portal for submission
MBRS portal for online submission
 
Adapting to the requirements of both Singapore’s XBRL and Malaysia’s MBRS can present several challenges. We take a look at 6 common issues companies may face:
 

1. Data Mapping Complexity

Financial data must be accurately mapped to each system's taxonomy, especially for companies with complex structures.

2. Multi-Entity Reporting

Consolidating data for multiple entities can be complex, as each has its own formats thus increasing the risk of errors.

 

3. Need for Technical Expertise

XBRL and MBRS require specialised knowledge, and a lack of in-house expertise can lead to delays and compliance risks.

4. Frequent Taxonomy Updates

Regular updates, like MBRS 2.0, require ongoing attention to ensure data stays properly formatted.

 

5. Software Challenges

Selecting the right conversion software is critical, as the wrong choice can lead to inefficiencies or errors.

6. Accuracy Requirements

Accurate data is vital. Errors in conversion can lead to non-compliance and costly re-submissions.

 
As these developments unfold, it’s clear that both Singapore and Malaysia are prioritising better data management and reporting standards, ultimately fostering a more transparent and efficient business environment. Staying ahead of these changes will be crucial for companies looking to navigate the complexities of financial reporting successfully.
 
 
With these complexities in mind, outsourcing XBRL and MBRS conversion to a corporate service provider like BoardRoom can greatly enhance efficiency and streamline processes. 

Here are some key advantages when companies choose to outsource their XBRL/MBRS conversion and filing process:
​​​
  • Expertise, Scalability, & Compliance
    Leverage expert insights to minimise errors and ensure compliance, while easily adapting services to meet evolving reporting needs and regulations.
     
  • Cost & Time Savings
    Lower your expenses and avoid fines associated with filing errors, as well as costs for specialised software and training, by ultilising high-quality services where providers handle the end-to-end conversion process on your behalf.
     
  •  Streamlined Processes & Quality Control
    Accelerate financial reporting and ensure timely submissions, backed by rigorous quality control measures that enhance accuracy and minimise costly corrections.

Ready to outsource your company’s XBRL and MBRS conversion?
BoardRoom is here to help improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimise compliance risks.

Let our team of experts assist you in enhancing your reporting accuracy and paving the way for your business success. 
TALK TO US TODAY
 

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Strengthening Corporate Governance: Understanding Singapore’s CSP and CLLPMA Bills

Strengthening Corporate Governance: Understanding Singapore’s CSP and CLLPMA Bills

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The Corporate Service Providers ("CSP") Bill and Companies and Limited Liability Partnerships (Miscellaneous Amendments) ("CLLPMA") Bill were introduced in Parliament on 6 February 2023 and recently passed by the Singapore Parliament on 2 July 2024.

The bills are designed to enhance Singapore's corporate regulatory framework and will come into operation on a date to be appointed by notification in the gazette. 

Key provisions in both bills include:
  1. introducing a licensing regime for corporate service providers,
  2. strengthening anti-money laundering measures, and 
  3. enhancing transparency and disclosure requirements. 

We cover all the important points you need to know about these bills in our report. 
DOWNLOAD REPORT

Please reach out to your respective client managers in BoardRoom or email us at [email protected] should you require further clarification. 

                
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