Many stamp tax issues can arise in connection with IPOs, not just on the issue or sale of shares as part of the IPO process, but also on any at preparatory steps and in relation to stabilisation arrangements. However, all of the stamp tax issues highlighted in this article can be satisfactorily resolved if taken into account in advance as part of the IPO planning stage. Tax practitioners should be aware of the issues outlined in this article, but take heart from the fact that solutions are available to avoid any stamp tax traps arising in connection with IPOs.
