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August 2025

Mark your calendars for 25 September 2025! Singapore's tax community is about to welcome an exciting addition—the official launch of the Young IFA Network (YIN) - Singapore.

Since its establishment in 2005, YIN has been instrumental in bringing together tax professionals from around the globe, creating meaningful connections that span borders and cultures. As the next generation of tax experts, YIN members play a crucial role in shaping the future of the International Fiscal Association (IFA) and the broader international tax landscape.

In this spirit, we're thrilled to share that Tax Academy is partnering with International Fiscal Association and DLA Piperto launch YIN Singapore in September 2025! This collaboration marks a significant step forward in nurturing our future tax talent and connecting them with a worldwide network of peers.

Get ready for our upcoming launch event—we're planning a relaxed, engaging session where you can network with fellow tax professionals in a casual setting, share experiences, and explore the exciting opportunities that YIN membership offers. Whether you're a tax associate, tax lawyer, or simply interested in the tax field, this is your chance to be part of something special.

Stay tuned for more details about the launch event! In the meantime, follow YIN on their LinkedIn page to stay updated on the latest developments: https://lnkd.in/eKjpb48b

Great to host representatives from the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCCS) and MTI Academy for a productive knowledge-sharing session!

Drawing on Tax Academy's 19-year journey as Singapore's leading center for tax knowledge, we shared our experiences in building a robust professional academy. The discussions were incredibly insightful, revealing valuable synergies with both CCCS's vision for consumer protection and competition, and MTI Academy's work in developing trade-related training.

The CCCS team, who overseas competition and consumer protection laws in Singapore, found valuable parallels between their vision and Tax Academy’s framework. Similarly, MTI Academy which complements the Trade and Industry Divisions’ work by developing relevant trade related training modules for government and public officers, gained insights into our experience in building customised professional programmes.

This session was a powerful reminder of our unique approach at Tax Academy:
😃 We work towards common shared goals - focus on doing in a collaborative approach, creating significant impact and influence.
😃 We are a network of networks - connecting and empowering professionals across the tax ecosystem.
😃 We, uniquely bring together government, industry, and academia

This session underscored a shared commitment to enhancing professional education and building capability across our respective domains. Looking forward to exploring these synergies with CCCS and MTI Academy!

𝙀𝙭𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙣𝙚𝙬𝙨! The Research Affiliates Programme is now open for registration, offering a unique opportunity for tax professionals to advance their academic journey.

This comprehensive programme is designed to equip tax professionals with essential academic writing and research skills, while contributing to Singapore's growing body of tax academic research.

Built on the successful model of SMU's Directed Research Programme, this exclusive initiative will accept 2 to 6 affiliates annually. Participants will benefit from specialised training and consultation sessions with SMU faculty and visiting professors.

You have the flexibility to choose between:
🔖The full programme or
🔖The academic writing workshops

The full programme is priced at $2,180* per person, while the Academic Writing Workshop is $654 per person.

*𝘚𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘭𝘢𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘩 𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘮𝘮𝘦, 𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘢 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵-𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦, 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵-𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘴! 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦!

What a wonderful full-circle moment hosting Dr Leopoldo Parada for lunch in Singapore!

Our paths first crossed in Jan 2023 through Associate Professor Vincent Ooi's introduction, and now here we are, celebrating the launch of this significant initiative in international tax research, STARI-SG.

Over local delicacies and sake, we explored the evolving landscape of international tax research and education. Dr Leopoldo's deep insights into global tax developments added valuable perspectives to our vision for STARI. His enthusiasm for research was evident throughout our discussion - a reminder of how scholarly passion can truly inspire and drive innovation in tax education.

Dr Leopoldo Parada – thank you for being part of this journey. We look forward to welcoming you back to Singapore to continue these meaningful discussions - perhaps your favourite sake! 😉

𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬: 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐡𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐚𝐱 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧!

We are delighted to share that our Singapore teams have achieved remarkable success at the Tax Executives Institute International Tax Student Case Competition, held from 14 to 16 August 2025 in Montreal, Canada. Tax Academy proudly supported two teams from Nanyang Technological University Singapore and National University of Singaporein this prestigious competition.

The NTU team demonstrated exceptional skill in solving complex international tax cases, securing first place against strong competition from universities worldwide, including experienced postgraduate students with years of tax practice. Their victory is a testament to Singapore's excellence in tax education. The NUS team also displayed outstanding talent and represented Singapore with distinction. Both teams, guided by dedicated mentors ( Lee Ying Jow, Simon Poh, WALTER KOLLIGSand Sam Sim), underwent months of rigorous preparation for this challenge.

This marks the third year of the TEI International Tax Student Case Competition, which offers students invaluable exposure to real-world tax scenarios while fostering connections with international practitioners and peers.

This achievement is particularly meaningful as we recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with TEI, focusing on knowledge exchange through various initiatives including seminars, networking events, and student development programmes.

Special thanks to Josephine (Josie) Scalia from TEI for organizing such an enriching competition that provided our students with an exceptional learning experience and international exposure. The team also had great honour to meet up with the Honorary Consul of Singapore, Mr Chia-yi Chua, ICD.D, just before the commencement of the competition.

Congratulations to both teams for their outstanding performance and for flying Singapore's flag high on the international stage! hashtag#teamsingapore

Our inaugural Corporate Service Providers (CSP) programme has concluded, and the results are nothing short of specTAXcular!

💡From concept to execution, this journey with Lancaster Lee 【李宣翰】, who is also a council member at Chartered Secretaries Institute Of Singapore, has set a new benchmark for professional tax education.

🎯 The results speak volumes:
- 100% of participants agreed their knowledge on the subject matter increased after attending the programme
- Feedback included: “Very clear explanation with relevant examples” and “It was very well done!”

A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated trainers (Lancaster Lee 【李宣翰】and Hui Juan Chan) and engaged participants for making this programme a success. The strong interest shown on this programme at the recent CSIS 10th CSPs Conference was incredibly encouraging.

Want to enhance your Corporate Service Provider expertise with fundamental knowledge of Income Tax and GST? Register your interest now: https://lnkd.in/gkv_sCEb

Balancing Digital Taxes and Geopolitics: The European Dilemma]

Dr. Leopoldo Parada led a thought provoking webinar earlier this week on "Balancing Digital Taxes and Geopolitics: The European Dilemma." It was great to see a fantastic mix of participants from both the industry and government tuning in from across the region.

The session offered key insights into the strategic and policy options available to the European Union for taxing the digital economy. We received a detailed analysis on whether a new, EU-wide Digital Services Tax (DST) is a viable path forward, or if adapting the existing VAT system presents a more politically feasible and effective alternative.

What our participants say:
😀 “A great starting point for beginners new to the subject to gain a good overview.”
😀 “Dr. Leopoldo offered interesting viewpoint, providing a valuable regional perspective in response to participant's question.”

A big thank you to Dr. Parada for his fantastic presentation, and to all the participants for their active engagement and insightful questions. The event was a true example of how industry, government, and academia can connect.

[Global Tax Reform and Trade Tariffs - China's Perspective]

We had a great afternoon with Professor Yansheng Zhu, who offered fascinating insights into China's perspective on global tax reform.

The session provided a deep look into China's strategic and evolving role in global tax governance. Professor Zhu highlighted how recent tax reforms and responses to global trade tensions are impacting multinational enterprises (MNEs) and cross-border investments, giving participants a comprehensive view of China's position on these critical issues.

What our participants say:
😀 “Professor Zhu gave a very comprehensive overview and background of China's policies and approach towards international tax governance. I also appreciated his thought-provoking questions especially around the US' imposition of tariffs.”

😀 “The speaker's in-depth knowledge provided invaluable clarity on China's approach to international tax policies, and its position on BEPS Pillars 1 and 2."

A huge thank you to Professor Zhu for his deep technical expertise and valuable insights, and to all the participants for their enthusiasm and thoughtful questions.

Tax Academy was delighted to be part of the milestone CSIS 10th CSPs Conference – A New Era for CSPs, held at Orchard Hotel on Tuesday.

Throughout the event, we were thrilled by the enthusiastic response from attendees, particularly their keen interest in our newly launched Corporate Service Providers (CSP) programme! Here's an exciting connection: one of our distinguished trainers (Lancaster Lee 【李宣翰】), who serves on the CSIS council, expertly moderated the insightful session on "Certificate of Residence Application and Revised Criteria from Calendar 2025" led by Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) Small Business Division.

The energy was incredible as we witnessed CSPs coming together, networking, and celebrating a decade of successful conferences.

Ready to elevate your tax expertise? Our 2-day CSP programme offers a deep dive into Singapore's tax framework, expertly covering both Income Tax and GST fundamentals. This foundational programme is designed to equip you with practical knowledge and insights essential for today's dynamic business environment. Register your interest now: https://lnkd.in/gkv_sCEb

When you think of the ultimate office—complete with incredible pantries and catered meals—which company comes to mind? For many, the answer is Google.

We had the privilege of an insightful visit to the Google office in Singapore yesterday. We were treated to a comprehensive tour, showcasing their famous micro-kitchens, vibrant workspaces, and magnificent city views.

Beyond the impressive amenities, we had the opportunity to hear from James Liu, Gillian Cheng and Evelyn. James delivered an engaging presentation on various generative AI models that can be integrated into our daily work and lives, such as NotebookLM and some upcoming Gen AI models. We are grateful for the insightful sharing and the warm hospitality extended to us!

The visit was a powerful reminder of the adage, "every day is a school day". There is always more to learn, and it is clear that AI has become an integral part of our present and future.

You could say we had a Googley good time!

Wishing our talented students from National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University Singaporethe very best as they head to Montreal to represent Singapore at the TEI Tax Competition! Your hard work, dedication, and passion for tax excellence have brought you this far — now it's time to shine on the global stage.

We're proud to support the next generation of thinkers and professionals exploring the field of tax. Each challenge you face and every person you meet in Montreal will contribute to your growth, both professionally and personally.

Good luck and make Singapore proud! The entire tax community is behind you.

STARI, STARI morning, we paint our vision in colours blue and gold. Like a bright star in the tax landscape, this is just the beginning of something extraordinary!! ✨🌟adapted from the opening lyrics of "Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)"

Distinguished guests and tax experts gathered to celebrate a milestone in Singapore's tax research journey - the launch of STARI on 11 August 2025.

Following the conference, we had the pleasure of hosting our guests for lunch, creating valuable opportunities for meaningful connections and exchanges. This embodies STARI's vision: bringing together brilliant minds from both tax practice and academia!

To our esteemed participants, both from overseas and Singapore - thank you for making this launch truly memorable. Your presence and contributions have set the stage for an exciting future in international tax research!

新加坡欢迎您, Professor Yansheng Zhu!

The first academic presentation at the STARI-SG Launch Conference featured Professor Zhu Yansheng, who delivered an insightful lecture on "The Development of the Theoretical Framework for Allocating Taxing Rights on Income from Cross-Border Transactions."

Professor Zhu brings distinguished expertise as a professor at Xiamen University (XMU) Law School and serves as the associate director of XMU's Centre for International Tax Law and Comparative Taxation. His academic prowess spans tax law and commercial law, with specialisation in international tax law, international investment law, Chinese company law, and trust law.

During his presentation, he provided a comprehensive analysis of how taxing rights are allocated for cross-border transactions, examining the evolving framework established by the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework. His discussion shed light on the complexities and implications of these international tax arrangements.

Professor Zhu's insights have already enriched our understanding of cross-border taxation, and there's more to come! Let's continue this journey of knowledge exchange! ✨

From London to the Lion City - the second academic presentation featured Dr Leopoldo Parada from King's College London! Time flies since our visit to the historic halls of King's College London in June 2025. Today, he delivered compelling insights on "Levelling the Playing Field: Competitiveness Beyond Pillar Two."

Dr Leopoldo Parada serves as a Reader in Tax Law at The Dickson Poon School of Law, King's College London.

His session delivered compelling insights, particularly his personal observation that the phrase "levelling the playing field" serves more as a political rallying rather than a genuine commitment to equalising opportunities between developed and developing countries. He emphasised that meaningful reform requires more than technical adjustments—it demands a fundamental shift towards truly inclusive and participatory rulemaking, where all countries have a substantive voice in shaping the international tax landscape of the future.

The tax discourse knows no borders! Tune in via Zoom on 13 August 2025, tomorrow as Dr Parada examines "Balancing Digital Taxes and Geopolitics: The European Dilemma." Be part of this global conversation! Sign up now if you have not. Registration link: https://lnkd.in/gykmGS5j

STARI-SG was honoured to welcome Professor Michael Dirkis from the University of Sydney for the inaugural STARI visiting professorship lecture. His thought-provoking presentation on "Living in Uncertain Times: The Future of International Tax Cooperation" set a high standard for the series.

Professor Dirkis brings over 30 years of taxation law expertise through his distinguished career spanning the Australian Taxation Office, academia, and the private sector. As a prominent researcher, he has authored and co-authored more than 600 publications and papers.

During his insightful lecture, he offered valuable insights into the Future of International Tax Cooperation amidst today's uncertain landscape. A key point of discussion was the misalignment between Global Intangible Low-Tax Income (GILTI) and Pillar Two, specifically how GILTI employs a global averaging approach rather than the jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction minimum tax method advocated by Pillar Two. Of particular interest was his analysis of the US position, where he noted that any targeted taxation of US subsidiaries would likely trigger reciprocal measures, potentially subjecting subsidiaries from other jurisdictions to elevated US tax rates.

We are deeply honoured to host Professor Dirkis in Singapore and look forward to fostering meaningful collaborations that will enrich the international tax research landscape.

🎉🎉A Milestone in Tax Research – Launch of STARI-SG and First Annual Conference! 🎉🎉

The official establishment of the Singapore Tax Academy Research Initiative (STARI-SG) marks a shining moment in Singapore's commitment to world-class tax research. Like a guiding STAR in the tax landscape, this initiative lights the way forward!

In her compelling welcome address, Dean Professor Pey Woan Lee highlighted Singapore's need for thought leadership in international tax developments amidst global shifts, emphasising the SMU Yong Pung How School of Law's dedication to fortifying Singapore's position through pioneering research and professional development. She underscored the school's strong partnership with the Tax Academy of Singapore, expressing confidence in their collaborative potential to advance Singapore's tax landscape together.

Tax Academy of Singapore's CEO, Mr Dennis Lui, captured the essence of our journey ahead in his opening address: "STARI will serve as a catalyst for tax research, knowledge development, and international collaboration in tax matters, positioning Singapore at the forefront of tax innovation and expertise.”

Today's STARI agreement signing illuminates our commitment to pioneering world-class tax research that will create lasting impact for Singapore and beyond.

Thank you to everyone who joined us at the STARI launch conference. Your presence helped make this event truly stellar! Together, we're reaching for the STARs in advancing tax research and education. 🌟💫

Navigating IP, Valuation, and Tax Considerations in M&A Transactions
28 Aug 2025 | 2pm to 5.45pm

✨ Register Now! https://lnkd.in/g3mk6ZkD

Mark your calendars! In a first-ever partnership, Tax Academy of Singapore and the IVAS - Institute of Valuers and Appraisers, Singapore present a must-attend seminar on "Navigating IP, Valuation, and Tax Considerations in M&A Transactions" on 28 August.

As intangible assets (IA) increasingly drive deal value in today’s economy, understanding how intellectual property (IP) / IA is assessed across legal, valuation, and tax domains is more critical than ever. This seminar brings together leading experts to explore how IP due diligence, valuation, and tax considerations intersect in M&A deals.

Whether you’re structuring a transaction, preparing for audit, or navigating cross-border IP and tax rules, this discussion will equip you with the tools to bridge perspectives and manage valuation complexity with confidence. Hear from seasoned experts as they unpack common challenges and share practical insights for navigating complex IP/IA-driven transactions.

Key focus areas:
⭐ Gain clarity on the latest IP and IA valuation requirements and their practical application in M&A transactions, supported by real-world examples.
⭐ Explore how IP strategy and due diligence can uncover hidden value and potential risks that impact deal structure and value.
⭐ Learn how to identify and articulate key IA value drivers and commercial considerations and how these can inform more robust tax and transfer pricing valuations.
⭐ Understand how IP, valuation, and tax considerations intersect and why it’s essential to align them early in the deal process to avoid compliance risks and post-deal surprises.

Admin details
👉 Fee: $163.50 (incl.GST)
👉 Venue: Revenue House, Level 5 Auditorium, 55 Newton Road, Singapore 307987

The countdown begins! Join us for a milestone in Singapore's tax research as we launch the Singapore Tax Academy Research Initiative (STARI-SG) on 11 Aug 2025 at SMU Yong Pung How School of Law.

STARI-SG, a collaborative initiative between SMU Yong Pung How School of Law and Tax Academy of Singapore, aims to:
💡 Conduct world-class international tax research
💡 Develop local academic capacity in taxation
💡 Build links with international thought-leaders in taxation

The launch event features an official signing ceremony, followed by an inaugural lecture from our distinguished STARI visiting professor, Professor Michael Dirkis. Distinguished professors, Professor Yansheng Zhu and Dr Leopoldo Parada, will deliver thought-provoking presentations, culminating in an engaging panel discussion with these brilliant minds.

📚🌟 This landmark collaboration marks more than just a new initiative—it represents a beacon of tax excellence that will illuminate Singapore's path as a leading international tax hub.

To our 100+ distinguished guests, we look forward to meeting you! Keep an eye out for our upcoming posts—it's going to be a STARI-STARI morning! 😉

Happy SG60 Singapore! 🇸🇬

Happy 60th National Day, Singapore! 🎉

This morning, the Tax Academy of Singapore team joined the National Day Observance Ceremony hosted by Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS)
alongside colleagues from ACRA - Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority, Accountant-General's Department, Singapore Land Authority (SLA) and Ministry of Finance, Singapore Customscelebrating the Singapore spirit with pride and
purpose. We were treated to a heartwarming performance by Commissioner of Inland Revenue, Mr Fook Chuen Ow, AGO's Auditor-General, Mr Wai Choong Ng, ACRA's Chief Executive, Mrs Huey Min Chia-Tern, CUSTOMS' Director-General, Mr Tan Hung Hooi, SLA's Chief Executive, Mr Calvin Phua, IRAS Deputy Commissioner, Mr Dennis Lui,
alongside children from Kinderland International Education, reminding us of how far we’ve come— and how far we’ll go together.

In the spirit of celebration, our team also shared our heartfelt wishes for Singapore – and for the continued growth of the tax community. From progress in innovation to nurturing future-ready talent, we’re excited to be part of the journey ahead!

Here’s to a future that’s bold, inclusive, and forward-looking — Majulah Singapura! ❤️🤍

The integration of AI in the tax administration is not simply a technological shift; it is a legal and institutional transformation.”

This insight comes from Stacey Fernandez, a financial prosecutor with the Attorney-General's Chambers, Singapore, who presented her research at a conference in Rust in July this year.

The team led by Associate Professor Stephen Phua, Sam Simand Stacey Fernandez, authored a research paper titled "The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Tax Law". As Singapore's representatives at the conference, Stephen and Stacey served as national reporters, sharing their findings on AI's transformative role in tax administration. The conference provided an invaluable platform to engage with international participants and practitioners, exchanging diverse perspectives on AI implementation in tax systems.

Their report explored three critical themes:
Definitions and Governance of AI
Tax Incentives
The Legal Limits on AI Use by Tax Administrations

As AI continues to reshape tax systems globally, how is your organisation preparing for this transformation?

The team will be sharing this research paper at a seminar in September 2025. Please look out for the registration details!

🌏 Bridging Tax Perspectives: Lunch with Our Indonesian Participants

We had the pleasure of hosting a roundtable discussion with 7 distinguished participants from Indonesia following their attendance at our inaugural AI & Tax training on 4 August 2025. Their presence in Singapore for this in-person programme truly enriched our learning community.

The discussion centred on the future of taxation with AI. Our Indonesian friends shared valuable insights about their journey in implementing AI within Indonesia's tax framework and their practical applications in their respective firms.

This gathering exemplified Tax Academy's core values - fostering meaningful connections, facilitating cross-border knowledge exchange, and building a robust international tax community. We're delighted to hear that more Indonesian tax professionals will be joining us for our STARI-SG launch next week!

We look forward to welcoming tax professionals from across borders to our future programmes as we continue building bridges in the world of taxation.

📊✨ It was an inspiring day at ACCtraordinary 2025 – an annual initiative that shines a spotlight on the dynamic future of the accountancy and tax profession!

Tax Academy of Singapore is proud to have joined this year’s edition, sharing with over 370 students from 19 secondary schools and Institutes of Higher Learning about the exciting world of tax and what lies ahead in this evolving field.

Jointly organised by ACRA - Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority and Ngee Ann Polytechnic, the event was graced by Guest-of-Honour Ms Indranee Rajah, Second Minister for Finance, who reaffirmed the high demand for accountants and the critical role they play in shaping our economic future — including emerging areas like sustainability reporting.

Tax Academy also had the opportunity to share with teachers, counsellors and students how tax touches everyone's lives, from economics to law to social policy, making it an engaging and relevant field of study.

A big thank you to all who stopped by the Tax Academy booth — here’s to inspiring the next generation of finance and tax professionals! 🙌

🚀 Pioneering AI & Tax Training

Our inaugural AI & Tax Training programme, powered by PwC, successfully launched on 4 August 2025! The response was remarkable, with 36 participants, including 7 international attendees joining us.

In today's rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, we're committed to empowering tax professionals with cutting-edge knowledge and skills.

This comprehensive introductory session delved into:
🎯Understanding Generative AI and AI Agents
🎯Practical applications of AI in taxation
🎯Real-world benefits and implementation strategies

Beyond theoretical learning, participants engaged in dynamic team discussions and hands-on brainstorming sessions, fostering innovative thinking and practical application.

A huge thank you to PwC for their exceptional facilitation! We're delighted that our participants found the session valuable, with 62% rating the agenda as excellent/good and reporting significant knowledge enhancement.

💡 How do you envision AI transforming the tax landscape? Share your thoughts below and let us know if you're interested in future AI & Tax training sessions - we'd love to hear from you!

[Tax and Trade Updates from the U.S.]

Yesterday, Tax Executives Institute, Inc. Asia Chapter and Tax Academy of Singaporejointly organised the webinar on Tax and Trade Updates from the US. The webinar was well attended by participants from varied industries, including technology, finance, logistics/manufacturing, and government.

Our distinguished speakers from Baker McKenzie - Stewart Lipeles(Partner), Alexandra Minkovich (Tax Policy Partner) and Eunkyung Kim Shin (김은경), (Partner, International Trade Law), delivered insights into critical developments shaping the US tax and trade landscape. Their expertise helped clarify complex regulatory changes and their implications for businesses operating in the Asia-Pacific region.

The engaging Q&A session demonstrated the relevance and timeliness of these topics to our community. For those who attended, we trust the session provided valuable practical insights to help your organisations navigate the current regulatory environment.

Our sincere thanks to the expert panelists for their time and to all participants for making this a great discussion!

[A Career in Tax – Multifaceted Options and Opportunities]

Myth Busted: Tax is Fun!

Last Friday, we wrapped up a really lively fireside chat that gave attendees an inside look at tax careers!

If anyone ever told you tax is a dull career, they clearly haven't met our phenomenal panel moderated by Mr Dennis Lui (CEO Tax Academy of Singaporeand Deputy Commissioner, Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS)), comprising of Mr Andy Baik (Tax Partner, KPMG Singapore), Ms Belinda Chan (Head of Tax, Temasek), Ms Ken Loon Ong (Head of Tax and Private Clients, Drew & Napier LLC).

We heard candid stories about their diverse paths 🛣️ to success and what keeps their passion for tax burning bright🔥. A key takeaway? While technology like AI is transforming our profession, the strategic thinking, global perspective, and human touch of tax professionals are more indispensable than ever.

The panel debunked common myths:

🌟Myth 1: Tax is narrow?
Absolutely not! It's a dynamic field that demands a broad skill set, from law and accounting to strategy and technology. The tax landscape cuts across all industries, giving you incredibly diverse experiences. For tax lawyers, the work is far from one-dimensional, encompassing both litigation and corporate advisory. Tax uniquely blends analytical rigor with innovative problem-solving, it also teaches you a deep appreciation for the law, a valuable and transferable skill that extends far beyond tax work itself.

🌟Myth 2: Tax careers are local?
With global tax changes and interconnected economies, a tax career offers boundless international opportunities. You'll also gain a crucial platform in tax policy and advocacy, essential for safeguarding the Singapore Tax Regime on the global stage. Plus, networking and collaboration across jurisdictions are key, making this a truly expansive and impactful path.

🌟 Myth 3: AI will replace tax practitioners?
While AI is excellent for enhancing efficiency in many tax-related tasks, tax professionals are still crucially needed for tax policy development, complex negotiations and ensuring tax certainty. These are areas where nuanced understanding, strategic thinking, and interpersonal skills are irreplaceable.

This session was a powerful affirmation for aspiring and current tax professionals on the vibrant future of a career in tax. Our sincere thanks to the panelists for their valuable insights, and to all participants who made this such an engaging discussion!

Time weaves its own story – it seems like just yesterday when we were in London with Ms Azlina Bulmer, ICAEW Interim International Director, witnessing the historic signing of our Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with ICAEW this June 2025.

Today brought another delightful chapter as we reconnected over lunch with Azlina Bulmer in Singapore along with Elaine Hong, Director, China and South East Asia at ICAEW and Elaine Chong, Head of Singapore ICAEW. Our engaging discussions led us to the topic of AI. While we celebrated the transformative power of AI in our industry, we all shared a profound appreciation for what technology cannot replicate – the genuine connections, warm handshakes, and meaningful relationships that form the cornerstone of lasting partnerships.

Our discussions have paved the way for meaningful initiatives that will benefit both organisations. Let's stay in touch as we continue to develop these exciting plans together.

☀️Celebrating the Future of Tax!

We were proud to recognise 24 outstanding students from NUS, NTU, SMU and SIT at our NextGen Tax Excellence Awards Ceremony 2025.

The NextGen Award is an annual initiative by the Tax Academy of Singapore. It recognises promising undergraduates who have demonstrated a strong interest in tax through internships, competitions and other related engagements.

This year’s recipients come from a wide range of academic backgrounds, not limited to Accountancy. Their diversity reflects the broad and evolving nature of the tax profession. Tax is indeed multidisciplinary!

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the professors and lecturers from our partner universities who joined us today. Your guidance and dedication have been instrumental in nurturing these bright minds.

Here is a snapshot of the bright minds shaping the future of tax. Congratulations to all our award recipients!

Your dedication and potential inspire us all.

"Tax is fun" - a phrase we live by at Tax Academy of Singapore. But what makes it truly engaging?

For us, it's about the connections we forge globally. Just recently, our conversations with Andrew Lee and Affiliate Professor Thomas Vanhee توماس فانهي highlighted this perfectly. These aren't just formal exchanges - they're opportunities to share insights and build lasting professional relationships.

Our recent discussion with Professor Vanhee revealed how closely our views on tax education align. We share the vision that tax knowledge should be practical, forward-looking, and globally relevant. His insights on regional developments complemented our approach at Tax Academy - where we believe in preparing tax professionals not just for today's challenges, but for tomorrow's innovations.

Together, we're building a future where tax education transcends borders, creating professionals ready for the evolving global tax landscape.