Tax impact of IP transfer:

5 key elements that can shift the deal economics

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  • 08/05/25

Transferring intellectual property (IP) as part of a post-acquisition integration or legal entity rationalisation is a complex decision - one that can affect not only immediate tax liabilities but also long-term group profitability, repatriation, and accounting positions.

This paper outlines five key elements that materially shape the outcome of cross border IP transfers. Each area is presented with practical financial modelling insights, examples and actionable insights:

  • Capital gains tax on IP transfers

  • Amortization benefit in Denmark

  • Deferred tax assets & liabilities (Group P&L and cash flow impact)

  • IP structuring and Danish principal model

  • Dividend distribution tax on repatriating cash.

Why this matters

In M&A settings, IP is often one of the most valuable assets transferred - but the tax and accounting implications of its relocation are often underestimated or deferred. This handbook provides a structured framework to evaluate IP transfer decisions end-to-end and can support early-stage structuring discussions between Tax, Finance, and Accounting teams.

 

Tax impact of IP transfer

Download the publication here

Contact

Kristian Serup

Partner, København, PwC Denmark

2127 8524

Email

Vibhor Chaudhary

Director, PwC Denmark

2452 9750

Email

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