Investor room: Taxation guide

General taxation information
 
Taxation is a complex area, so if you are in any doubt as to the prevailing requirements, you should consult an appropriate financial adviser or HM Revenue & Customs, who produce a range of guidance.
 
Capital gains tax
 
A charge to capital gains tax may arise when you dispose of an asset which is worth more than when you acquired it.  Investors should consult their tax advisor for further information.

Dividends
 
A charge to income tax may apply when you receive a dividend, investors should consult their tax advisor for further information.
 
Stamp duty and stamp duty reserve tax (SDRT)

Stamp duty or SDRT is payable on transfers of ‘stock or marketable securities’. If a transfer document is used, stamp duty is generally payable on the document. If not, for example transactions are completed within the Stock exchange ‘de-materialised’ system (CREST) SDRT is payable. Both Stamp duty and SDRT attract a rate of 0.5 per cent (as at April 2006) of the consideration paid for the transfer, and such stamp duty is generally payable by the transferee.