Regulatory Exposure of High-Net-Worth Families under the Black Money Law:

 

Introduction:

Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act, 2015 (“BMA”) was enacted to target undisclosed foreign income and assets of Indian residents.

The Act imposes:

Tax @ 30% on the value of undisclosed foreign income and assets, and

Penalty @ 90%, plus

Prosecution provisions for wilful non-disclosure or false statements.

Profile Characteristics of HNIs and Family Offices:

HNIs and family offices typically hold diversified wealth across multiple jurisdictions through complex arrangements such as:

1.  Foreign bank accounts and investment portfolios.

2.  Offshore companies or special purpose vehicles (SPVs).

3.  Trusts or foundations settled abroad.

4.  Foreign immovable properties.

5.  Interests in overseas private equity, hedge funds, or venture capital entities.

Implication:

1.  Even if income isn’t earned, mere ownership or signatory authority over a foreign asset can attract reporting obligations under BMA.

2.  Lack of documentation for source of funds creates exposure to tax + penalty under Sections 3 and 41 of the BMA.

3.  If settlor/beneficiary is a resident in India, and trust assets or income are undisclosed, they fall within the BMA ambit.

Checklist for compliances:

1.  Identify all offshore assets, including bank accounts, securities, real estate, partnerships, trusts, and signatory roles. Reconcile with information available under CRS / FATCA and foreign tax filings.

2.  Maintain original investment agreements, acquisition proofs, bank remittance records, and valuation reports.

3.  On becoming Resident and Ordinarily Resident (ROR), review all prior offshore holdings and ensure immediate disclosure in ITR. Consider liquidation or regularisation of old accounts if inactive or redundant.

4.  Revisit offshore trust and entity documentation to ensure clear demarcation of control and beneficial ownership.