Managing exchange rate differences for tax purposes

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze the tax consequences of foreign exchange differences. The taxpayers can choose the method of determining exchange differences for tax purposes according to tax law or according to accounting law. The application of each method has its advantages as well as disadvantages, and the choice of a better method for the taxpayer should be based on a detailed analysis of his business activities and potential future economic events. In business practice certain economic events may result in recognition or irrelevance of such exchange differences for tax purposes, such as a waiver of or change of the currency of a liability. If foreign exchange gains are not recognized for tax purposes, for the taxpayer this would mean tax savings.