By - King Stubb & Kasiva on February 28, 2023
Indian entities, whether individuals or companies have been increasingly looking to expand their business and investment activities overseas. Overseas investments can offer several opportunities for Indian entities, such as diversification of their portfolio, access to new markets, technology, and resources, and the potential for higher returns. However, overseas investing also comes with its fair share of risks and challenges that must be considered and addressed.
The Indian overseas investment market has been growing steadily over the years. As of March 2021, Indian companies had invested around USD 262 billion overseas, with major investments made in the USA, Singapore, and Mauritius.
The United States is one of the most popular destinations for Indian overseas investment, with investments totaling approximately USD 60 billion as of March 2021. Singapore and Mauritius are also popular investment destinations, with investments totaling approximately USD 29 billion and USD 16 billion, respectively. Other countries that have attracted significant investments from Indian entities include the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, and the Netherlands.
The software and services sector is the largest recipient of Indian overseas investments, with investments totaling approximately USD 57 billion as of March 2021. The telecommunications and pharmaceuticals sectors are also significant recipients of Indian overseas investments, with investments totaling approximately USD 24 billion and USD 14 billion, respectively.
The market size for overseas investments by Indian entities is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. Factors such as increasing globalization, the emergence of new markets, and the need for diversification are likely to drive further investments by Indian entities overseas. However, Indian entities must also be prepared to address the risks and challenges associated with overseas investments, such as compliance with local laws and regulations, exchange rate fluctuations, and geopolitical risks.
Indian entities looking to invest overseas must comply with the legal and regulatory framework applicable to overseas investments. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is the primary regulator of overseas investments by Indian entities. The RBI has issued several regulations and guidelines, including the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and the Overseas Direct Investment (ODI) policy, which govern outbound investments by Indian entities.
The primary legislation and framework(s) with respect to Foreign Investments are:
Indian companies looking to make direct investments overseas must comply with the provisions of the ODI policy. The policy mandates that Indian companies can invest up to 400% of their net worth, subject to the approval of the RBI. The investments can be made in the form of equity, debt, or joint ventures.
One of the key risks associated with overseas direct investment is the impact of exchange rates on investments. Fluctuations in exchange rates can have a significant impact on the returns earned by Indian entities. Indian entities can mitigate this risk by hedging their investments against exchange rate fluctuations.
Overseas real estate investment has become increasingly popular among Indian entities. However, such investments come with their fair share of legal challenges. Indian entities must comply with the laws and regulations of the host country regarding real estate investments. Additionally, Indian entities must ensure that they have a clear understanding of the title and ownership of the property they are investing in.
Instrument | Holding Period | Tax Slab & Rate |
Equity | ||
LTCG | Over 24 Months | 20% after Indexation |
STCG | Less than 24 Months | Slab rate |
Dividend Income | Slab rate | |
Debt Instruments & Mutual Funds | ||
Dividend Income | NA | Slab rate |
LTCG | Over 36 Months | 20% after indexation |
STCG | Less than 36 Months | Slab rate |
Real Estate | ||
LTCG | Over 24 Months | 20% after indexation |
STCG | Less than 24 Months | Slab Rate |
Rental Income | NA | Slab Rate |
In conclusion, the Overseas Investment Regime has brought significant changes to the Indian overseas investment landscape. It has provided clear definitions, procedures, and regulations for Indian entities investing abroad, addressing several ambiguities and uncertainties that existed under the previous regime. Indian entities now have greater flexibility and scope for investment opportunities in strategic industries, real estate, and other sectors globally.
However, they must also navigate various legal and regulatory challenges, such as compliance with FCRA when gifting foreign securities and managing the impact of exchange rates on overseas investing. To set up a business entity for overseas investment, Indian entities must carefully consider the legal requirements and procedures of the host country. Overall, the OI Regime has created opportunities and risks for Indian entities investing overseas, requiring them to balance their investment goals with compliance requirements and risk management strategies.
There are several risks associated with overseas investing for Indian entities. Some of the common risks include:
1. Political and Economic Instability
2. Currency Fluctuations
3. Regulatory Compliance
4. Cultural Differences
5. Legal Challenges
Overall, Indian entities must carefully consider these risks before investing overseas and take appropriate measures to mitigate them.
Indian entities looking to invest overseas must comply with various legal requirements, which may vary depending on the country of investment. Some of the common legal requirements for Indian entities looking to invest overseas include:
1. Obtain Necessary Approvals
2. Transfer of Funds
3. Compliance with Tax Laws
4. Compliance with Anti-Corruption Laws
Overall, Indian entities must be aware of the legal requirements and regulations in the host country where they plan to invest and seek professional legal advice to ensure compliance with these requirements.
Indian entities can mitigate the risks associated with overseas investing by conducting thorough due diligence, seeking expert advice, diversifying their investments, having a clear exit strategy, maintaining good communication with local partners, and continuously monitoring and evaluating their investments.
[1]https://www.rbi.org.in/scripts/NotificationUser.aspx?Id=12380&Mode=0
[2]https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/content/pdfs/GazetteRules23082022.pdf
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