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In an era of globalization and evolving tax regulations, David Paulson, CEO and Founder of Paulson and Partners, shares his insights on how businesses can navigate cross-border taxation and why personalized advisory is more critical than ever.
Interviewer: David, thank you for joining us today. Let’s start with the big picture: how has globalization impacted tax advisory?
David Paulson: It’s great to be here. Globalization has transformed the tax landscape. Businesses can now reach markets they never dreamed of, but with that comes the complexity of navigating tax regulations in multiple jurisdictions. Companies face challenges like double taxation, transfer pricing issues, and new frameworks like the OECD’s Pillar One and Pillar Two initiatives. Each jurisdiction has its own rules, and these often overlap—or worse, contradict—creating a maze for businesses to navigate.
At Paulson and Partners, we see this complexity as an opportunity to help our clients not just stay compliant but also thrive. Cross-border tax advisory is no longer just about ticking boxes; it’s about creating strategies that align with global regulations while maximizing opportunities for growth.
Interviewer: You mentioned the OECD’s initiatives. How do frameworks like Pillar One and Pillar Two influence your approach to advising clients?
David Paulson: These frameworks are game-changers. Pillar One reallocates taxing rights to market jurisdictions, and Pillar Two establishes a global minimum tax. While they aim to create fairness, they also bring uncertainty for businesses.
Our approach is to stay ahead of these changes. We monitor developments closely and guide our clients in adjusting their strategies proactively. For instance, if a client operates in countries with conflicting rules, we help structure their operations to minimize exposure to double taxation while ensuring compliance with these new regulations.
Interviewer: What role does technology play in managing these global tax complexities?
David Paulson: Technology is essential. Tax authorities are leveraging tools like AI and blockchain to monitor cross-border transactions in real time. Businesses need to match that sophistication. At Paulson and Partners, we use advanced analytics to help our clients identify risks, optimize structures, and ensure compliance.
For example, AI helps us analyze financial data quickly, uncovering opportunities for tax savings or potential compliance gaps. Blockchain, on the other hand, is revolutionizing transparency, especially in areas like transfer pricing and cross-border audits.
But let me be clear—technology is a tool, not the solution. The human element remains irreplaceable. Our advisors combine these tools with deep expertise to deliver strategies tailored to each client’s needs.
Interviewer: Double taxation is a recurring concern for businesses operating globally. How do you help your clients address it?
David Paulson: Double taxation is one of the biggest challenges in cross-border taxation. When the same income is taxed in two jurisdictions, it can erode profitability.
We address this through a combination of strategies. First, we leverage tax treaties to minimize overlapping liabilities. Second, we ensure that proper documentation is in place to support tax positions during audits. Finally, we structure operations in ways that optimize where and how income is taxed.
At the end of the day, it’s about protecting our clients’ bottom line while maintaining full compliance.
Interviewer: Tax compliance is also a reputational issue, especially in today’s transparent business environment. How do you advise clients on managing this?
David Paulson: You’re absolutely right. Tax compliance is no longer just a legal matter—it’s a reputational one. In an age where transparency is expected, public perception matters as much as financial outcomes.
We work closely with our clients to ensure that their tax practices are not only compliant but also aligned with their values and stakeholder expectations. For example, we guide businesses on how to balance tax efficiency with corporate social responsibility.
Reputation is one of a company’s most valuable assets. By ensuring that our clients’ tax practices are above board, we help them maintain trust with investors, stakeholders, and the public.
Interviewer: What makes Paulson and Partners stand out in the field of cross-border tax advisory?
David Paulson: At Paulson and Partners, we take a proactive, client-centered approach. Our focus is on creating tailored strategies that align with each client’s unique goals.
We combine cutting-edge technology with a global network of trusted local experts. This allows us to stay on top of regulatory changes and provide insights into specific regional practices.
But more than that, we see ourselves as partners, not just advisors. Our role is to anticipate challenges, identify opportunities, and help our clients succeed in an increasingly complex world.
Interviewer: Looking ahead, what do you see as the future of cross-border tax advisory?
David Paulson: The pace of globalization isn’t slowing, and tax regulations will continue to evolve in response. Businesses will need trusted advisors who can help them adapt to these changes while staying focused on their growth.
At Paulson and Partners, we believe the future lies in blending advanced technology with human insight. It’s about being agile, forward-thinking, and always putting the client first.
As I often say, cross-border tax advisory isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about creating possibilities. That’s the mindset we bring to every client relationship.
Interviewer: Thank you, David, for sharing your insights. Any final thoughts?
David Paulson: Thank you. I’d just say this: The global tax landscape is complex, but it’s also full of opportunity. With the right strategy, businesses can not only navigate these challenges but also gain a competitive edge.
At Paulson and Partners, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this transformation, helping our clients succeed—no matter where in the world they operate.
