India Eliminates Capital Gains Tax on Government Securities for Foreign Investors
India scraps capital gains tax on govt securities for foreign investors

Image: Asianet Newsable
The Indian government has eliminated the capital gains tax on investments in government securities by Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) to enhance the country's investment appeal. This decision, made during a Cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to attract foreign capital amid global economic uncertainties.
- 01The Union Cabinet's decision was made on Wednesday and will be enacted through an ordinance amending the Income Tax Act.
- 02Foreign investors previously faced a 12.5% Long Term Capital Gains tax on government securities held for over 12 months.
- 03The exemption is expected to make Indian sovereign debt more appealing to overseas investors, potentially increasing capital inflows.
- 04This measure is part of a broader strategy to boost foreign investment and stabilize the economy amidst geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
- 05The government plans additional measures to further encourage capital inflows into India.
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In a strategic move to enhance India's attractiveness as an investment hub, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the removal of capital gains tax on investments in government securities by Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs). This decision, made during a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, will be implemented via an ordinance that amends the Income Tax Act, allowing for expedited action without waiting for parliamentary approval. Currently, FPIs are subject to a 12.5% Long Term Capital Gains (LTCG) tax on listed shares and bonds held for over 12 months. The removal of this tax is anticipated to significantly boost the yield attractiveness of Indian sovereign debt for foreign investors, who have previously identified this tax as a barrier to investment. Additionally, government sources indicate that this decision is part of a larger initiative to promote capital inflows and mitigate economic impacts from ongoing geopolitical conflicts in West Asia, which have disrupted global markets and supply chains. By eliminating this tax, India aims to deepen foreign participation in its sovereign bond market, potentially supporting the rupee and managing borrowing costs effectively.
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The removal of the capital gains tax is expected to attract significant foreign investment into India's government securities market, potentially stabilizing the economy and supporting the rupee.
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