Taxmann's Online Gaming Industry | A Practical Guide to Business and Taxation in India – In-depth analysis focusing on evolution, legal framework and taxation [Income-tax and GST] challenges

Book excerpt: This book provides an in-depth analysis of the online gaming industry in India, focusing on the following: • Evolution • Legal Framework • Taxation Issues It discusses various business models, such as free-to-play, subscription services, and in-game advertising, highlighting their unique challenges and opportunities. Each chapter invites readers—from legal and accounting professionals to business strategists and curious students—to gain a holistic understanding of the complexities of online gaming in India. The Present Publication is the Latest Edition and amended up to 1st May 2024. This book is authored by CA. Sujatha G, CA. Vishal Govindprasad Poddar, CA. Rajeev K. Sharma, CA. Praveen Sharma, CA. Neha Tayal, CA. Rahul R. Gandhi, CA. Deepak Kothari, CA. Satish Sukumar Chippalakatti. The noteworthy features of the book are as follows: • [Introduction to Online Gaming] The book begins with an in-depth analysis of the online gaming industry, emphasising its dynamic intersection of technology, entertainment, and business. It discusses the historical development, various business models, and the significant growth of the global gaming industry, facilitated by technological advancements and widespread internet access • [Business Models in Online Gaming] This book analyses business strategies within the online gaming sector, such as free-to-play models with microtransactions, subscription services, and in-game advertising. Each model's unique challenges and opportunities for developers, publishers, and players are discussed. • [Legal Aspects in India] The book examines the complex legal framework surrounding online gaming in India, focusing on debates and judicial interpretations concerning games of skill versus chance and the broader legal issues impacting the industry • [Taxation Framework] A thorough analysis of taxation related to online gaming under GST and Income Tax is provided. The book covers GST compliance, input tax credits, cross-border transactions, and income tax issues like revenue recognition and deductions • [Global Perspective and Strategic Recommendations] The book discusses global policies on online gaming, comparing international jurisdictions and proposing strategic recommendations for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and regulators The contents of the book are as follows: • Overview of Online Gaming Industry • Laws Governing Online Gaming • Accounting Aspect of Online Gaming • Taxation in Online Gaming • Key Judicial Pronouncements • Global Policies in Online Gaming • Way Forward in Online Gaming