Tax
Europe Guide 2024 : Belgium
Band 2
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
+32 2 533 52 11About
Provided by Stibbe
Stibbe’s expertise includes corporate taxation, real estate taxation, taxation of investment funds, incentives, transfer pricing, public sector taxation, tax controversy, VAT and other indirect taxes.
The team has particular experience in advising on the tax aspects of both public and private M&A transactions, buy-outs, joint ventures, corporate restructurings, private equity transactions, capital market transactions, finance structures, financial products, securitisations, project finance, real estate transactions, and public-private partnerships (PPPs). They also often give advice on technical topics and innovative products.
In addition, they have significant expertise in EU law and the interpretation and application of international tax treaties and advance clearance from tax authorities in major transactions and cross border investments on key aspects, including withholding taxes and specific tax incentives for IP.
Stibbe’s tax controversy practice has a strong track record in negotiating settlements with tax authorities, in handling complex cases before Belgian and European tax courts and in representing and advising clients in domestic and international litigation and arbitration on tax related disputes in transactions (including M&A) and under investment protection agreements.
Chambers Review
Stibbe acts for a diverse range of clients, including companies in the telecommunications and real estate sectors, on tax structuring matters. It advises on tax matters relating to cross-border transactions, the establishment of investment funds and the structuring of private equity investments. The team assists public sector clients with the introduction of new pieces of tax legislation. The law firm also advises on indirect taxation, with experience in tax disputes over the payment of VAT. Stibbe represents clients in transfer pricing matters.
Work Highlights
- Stibbe advised Touring on the tax aspects of the transfer of all operational and commercial activities of its road assistance business and its insurance business to AG Insurance and BNP Paribas Fortis.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"The team is very responsive and no detail is overlooked."
"The team is very responsive and no detail is overlooked."
Notable Practitioners
Henk Verstraete has a strong practice advising clients on the tax implications of cross-border M&A activity. He advises on a wide range of tax matters, such as withholding tax and capital gains tax.
"Henk Verstraete is very convincing and efficient, and he fights well for the client. He is very helpful when the client has problems with the tax authority."
"His commercial aspect is really strong."
Wim Panis focuses on indirect tax issues, advising clients on VAT and transfer tax matters, and acting for public and private clients across a range of sectors.
"Wim Panis is an exceptional lawyer. He listens to clients' needs and respects their decisions while drawing attention to the main risks and opportunities."
Ranked Lawyers at
Stibbe
Industries
Provided by Stibbe
Automobiles & Parts
Banks
Charities / Not for Profit
Chemicals
Commercial & Professional Services
Consumer Product Manufacturing
Education
Energy
Financial Services
Food & Drink Producers
Government
Health Care
Industrial Engineering
Insurance
Media
Mining & Metals
Pharmaceuticals & Life Sciences
Private Clients / Individuals
Real Estate
Real Estate Finance
Retail
Software & Computer Services
Sports
Technology, Hardware & Electronics
Telecommunications
Transportation
Utilities