Understanding the Global Method (Tax): A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

The global method, in the context of taxation, refers to a way of calculating profits for multinational enterprises (MNEs). Instead of determining profits based on transactions between related entities at arm's length"”meaning the prices are set as if the parties were unrelated"”the global method allocates the total profits of the MNE among its members. This allocation can be based on various factors, such as the turnover, expenses, or labor costs of each member within the enterprise.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A multinational company with subsidiaries in several countries may use the global method to allocate its total profits based on the revenue generated by each subsidiary. For instance, if one subsidiary generates 40 percent of the total revenue, it may be allocated 40 percent of the total profits.

Example 2: An MNE with various operational costs in different countries might allocate profits based on the expenses incurred by each member. For example, if one subsidiary has significantly higher operational costs, it may receive a larger share of the profits. (hypothetical example)

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are part of a multinational enterprise and need to allocate profits using the global method, consider the following steps:

  • Assess the total profits of your enterprise and determine the appropriate allocation factors (turnover, expenses, labor costs).
  • Consult with a tax professional to ensure compliance with international tax laws and regulations.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you manage the documentation and reporting requirements associated with this method.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The global method is a way to allocate total profits of a multinational enterprise among its members based on specific factors rather than arm's length pricing.