As a professional, I understand the importance of creating content that is both search engine-friendly and informative for readers. In this article, I will be discussing the topic of share purchase agreement stamp duty in the state of Karnataka.

A share purchase agreement (SPA) is a legal document used to transfer ownership of shares from one party to another. In Karnataka, when a SPA is executed, it is subject to stamp duty as per the provisions of the Karnataka Stamp Act, 1957.

Stamp duty is a tax levied by the state government on various kinds of legal documents, including SPAs. The stamp duty rate for SPAs in Karnataka is 0.1% of the total consideration or the market value of the shares being transferred, whichever is higher.

For example, if the total consideration for the transfer of shares is Rs. 1 crore, the stamp duty payable would be Rs. 10,000 (0.1% of Rs. 1 crore). However, if the market value of the shares being transferred is Rs. 1.5 crore, the stamp duty payable would be calculated on the higher value of Rs. 15,000 (0.1% of Rs. 1.5 crore).

It is important to note that stamp duty must be paid within 30 days from the date of execution of the SPA. Failure to pay the stamp duty within this timeframe can result in penalties and fines.

In addition to paying stamp duty, the SPA must also be registered with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) within 30 days from the date of execution. The registration fee for an SPA in Karnataka is Rs. 500.

It is advisable to consult a legal professional or a chartered accountant to ensure compliance with all legal requirements related to SPAs, stamp duty, and registration.

In conclusion, the stamp duty payable on a share purchase agreement in Karnataka is 0.1% of the total consideration or the market value of the shares being transferred, whichever is higher. The stamp duty must be paid within 30 days from the date of execution, and the SPA must be registered with the ROC. It is important to seek professional advice to ensure compliance with all legal requirements.