Dissenting shareholders and share buybacks for the benefit of a company’s trade
Private Client analysis: This case addresses whether a company’s purchase of shares from a majority shareholder qualified for capital gains tax treatment under section 1033 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 (CTA 2010). The First-tier Tribunal allowed the taxpayer’s appeal, finding that the share buyback was ‘wholly or mainly for the purpose of benefiting’ the company’s trade, despite HMRC’s attempt to treat it as a distribution. The Tribunal took a pragmatic approach, considering the share purchase as part of a broader exit arrangement that would benefit the trade by resolving management disputes and enabling necessary business investments. Importantly, the Tribunal clarified that the company’s purpose, not the shareholder’s motives, is key when applying s 1033, and that the trade benefit can be achieved through the purchase in conjunction with other actions. The case offers valuable guidance on share buybacks, particularly where management disputes impede business development. Practical implications written by Rory Mullan KC of 15 Old Square Chambers.