Share Valuation Services

Many companies conduct share valuations to serve as a starting point for determining share value. However, specific requirements outlined in tax legislation and case law must be met for a valid fiscal valuation. Consequently, companies often enlist the expertise of third-party valuers such as Hamilton Blake to determine share value for tax purposes.

From a tax perspective, there are many reasons why share valuation will be important:

on the death of a shareholder, when inheritance tax (IHT) and capital gains tax (CGT) base costs may be relevant, or other re-basing for CGT purposes

on the death of a shareholder, when inheritance tax (IHT) and capital gains tax (CGT) base costs may be relevant, or other re-basing for CGT purposes

if a group reorganises or restructures

when goodwill and other intangible assets are assessed for tax purposes

if gifts, ten-year or exit charges are placed in trust

if a company buys shares from shareholders

if certain factors affect employment income: for example, growth shares, restricted shares, joint share ownership plans (JSOPs), outright share awards, approved or unapproved options and tax-advantaged arrangements.

Other reasons typically include:

an independent valuation review related to transactions at undervalue

purchase or sale of an entire business due to bankruptcy or liquidation

share transfers under shareholders’ agreements, the company’s Articles of Association or other agreements

valuations for accounting purposes, venture capital funds and similar

the reorganisation or disposal of family members’ shares

a dispute between shareholders or business partners

divorce-related financial settlements.

Importance:

Determines share value for tax purposes.

Essential for inheritance tax, capital gains tax, company reorganisation, and more.

Critical in cases like shareholder deaths, company restructures, and share transfers.

Reasons for Valuation:

Tax-related events (e.g., IHT, CGT).

Corporate actions (e.g., acquisitions, restructures).

Personal circumstances (e.g., divorce, shareholder disputes).

Tax Considerations:

CSOP options must be priced at market value.

EMI options offer flexible pricing below or above market value.

Hamilton Blake's Role:

Provides impartial, professional valuations.

Supports clients through complex situations (e.g., shareholder conflicts, audits).

Ensures confident decision-making with thorough valuation services.

- From a tax perspective, there are many reasons why share valuation is important -

Tax Issues

A Company Share Option Plan (CSOP) cannot offer options at a price lower than the market value on the day they are granted. Conversely, Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) options allow for flexibility in setting the exercise price, permitting it to be either below or above the tax market value of the shares, based on commercial considerations.


To prevent a tax liability upon acquisition, directly acquired shares must be obtained at a price no lower than their market value. In cases where the share price, proposed holding size, or participant's profile pose funding challenges for acquisition, alternative arrangements like growth shares, deferred shares, or joint share plans may be explored. These alternatives may require a share valuation to establish the market value of the shares.


If your company is operating a Company Share Option Plan (CSOP), the exercise price of share options cannot be lower than their market value on the day they are granted. On the other hand, Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) options can be granted at a lower than their tax market value. This makes them more attractive for commercial reasons.

Share Valuation with Hamilton Blake

We understand that share valuations are frequently required during challenging or tense circumstances. Whether it's resolving shareholder conflicts, contemplating a sale, navigating relationship breakdowns or fulfilling year-end audit obligations, we ensure prompt and efficient delivery of impartial, professional valuations.


Our goal is to furnish our clients with comprehensive valuation services that instil confidence in their decision-making processes.

TAX DOESN'T HAVE TO BE TAXING

Tax can be tricky, through our team of dedicated tax specialists, we are able to help with everything from Basic Business Structuring to Share Schemes.

Honest, Professional, Expert Advice

Maximising your tax efficiency while ensuring compliance with ever-evolving regulations

Quality, Chartered Tax Advisors

Your trusted partners in navigating complex tax landscapes with precision and integrity

Backed up by Professional Industry Bodies

Ensuring excellence and adherence to the highest standards in tax advisory services

Scroll to Top