Companies operating equity incentive schemes must file an annual return of information with the Irish tax authorities by 31 March after the end of each tax year, and the returns in respect of 2022 activity are due by 31 March 2023. Failure to make returns may lead to penalties, including the withdrawal of approval for any 'Revenue approved' incentive schemes and no longer qualifying for share option schemes under the key employee engagement programme.

Share-based employee benefits are becoming increasingly popular with many India businesses offering them to retain, reward or inspire their employees. These allow employees to participate in their company’s ownership and growth. On the other hand, helps employers to retain talent. This can be a powerful motivator for employees to work hard and contribute to the company’s success.

The European Parliament has approved the Pay Transparency Directive, which mandates pay equity compliance, while Australia has also introduced broad changes to the Fair Work Act, including strengthening provisions on gender pay equity, anti-discrimination, and sexual harassment protections, and improving access to flexible work arrangements. Despite widespread awareness and disapproval of pay gaps, such as the 18% gap in the US, change remains difficult to come by.

As the Canadian government develops its legislation to permit employee ownership trusts, the fact that the proposed model doesn’t include incentives is a big blow to companies considering the option, according to one expert.