zsis) - Center for Swiss and International Tax Law

Inheritance and gift tax at federal level - the so-called "Future Initiative" of the JUSO

The "Future Initiative" aims to tax the assets of natural persons through an additional inheritance and gift tax at federal level. With an exemption amount of CHF 50 million, the tax affects wealthy individuals. The proposed tax rate was set at 50%, without providing for exceptions to taxation. Due to the existing inheritance and gift taxes, this could lead to a much higher effective tax burden. Numerous unresolved questions and a planned retroactive effect are already causing great uncertainty well before a referendum at the beginning of 2026. This article uses examples to illustrate possible consequences and measures for action.

Restructuring merger between sister companies

This article first explains the different concepts of the need for reorganization under commercial law and tax law as well as the requirements for the tax recognition of the assumption of loss carryforwards in the context of a reorganization merger between sister companies. The tax consequences for the merged companies and for the joint shareholders are then also examined using examples.

Tax treatment of refurbishment grants in private assets

In the area of capital contributions, two landmark Federal Supreme Court rulings were issued last year. In a first ruling, the Federal Supreme Court also applied an income tax-free repayment within the meaning of Art. 20 para. 3 DBG with regard to hidden capital contributions. In a second ruling last year, the Federal Supreme Court protected the practice of the FTA, according to which the accounting offsetting of a contribution against the loss carryforwards is mandatory in order to claim the restructuring allowance pursuant to Art. 6 para. 1 lit. k StG.

Editorial on the focus "Refurbishments"

In difficult economic times, many companies are faced with considerable financial challenges. The Covid-19 pandemic in particular has led to a number of companies needing to be restructured despite the aid granted, such as loans or hardship compensation. Restructuring a company is a complex process that requires not only strategic and operational measures, but also careful consideration of legal and tax aspects. After all, restructuring a company can lead to significant tax consequences.