FAQ

What is the tax on the 2017 fiscal year dividend?

The distribution will be paid out of net profit of the year and through issue premiums.

For individual shareholders resident for tax purposes in France, the distribution of EUR2.20 per share is subject to two separate tax statements :

• up to EUR0.19, the dividend constitutes distributed income. As such, a social security tax of 17.2% will be charged on the gross amount when paid. The gross amount of French-source dividends received by resident individuals will also be subject to a mandatory non-definitive withholding tax of 12.8%.
• 
  in the amount of €2.01, the distribution constitutes a capital repayment. As such, it is not subject to income tax pursuant to article 112-1 of the French Tax Code, as all profits and reserves other than the legal reserve have been previously distributed.

Nevertheless, individuals belonging to a tax household whose taxable income for the penultimate year is less than EUR50,000 with the status of single, divorced or widowed taxpayer, and EUR75,000 for couples who file a joint tax return, can request exemption from this withholding tax. To this end, under their responsibility, they should submit their application for exemption to the paying entity, in the form of a sworn statement indicating that their reference taxable income listed on their tax form established under income for the penultimate year preceding the payment of the income, shows income lower than the thresholds indicated above. This application must be filed no later than November 30 of the year preceding that of the payment.

In 2019, dividends will in principle be subject to a flat tax (“Prélèvement Forfaitaire Unique” – “PFU”) at the rate of 12.8%. However, taxpayers may opt for dividends to be subject to income tax at ordinary progressive rates. In such case, after applying a 40% (uncapped) allowance, only 60% of the dividends will be included in the taxable income, less any deductible charges and expenses. The option for taxation at the ordinary progressive tax rates is irrevocable and applies to all investment income received by the taxpayer. It is made in the income tax return filed every year following the one when the dividends are received.
The above-mentioned levy at source of 12.8% will be offset against the income tax that will be due in 2019 for income earned in 2018. If it exceeds the income tax due, the surplus will be paid back.

Shareholders are invited to contact their usual advisors for further information about the applicable tax regime  

What is the tax on the 2016 fiscal year dividend?

From a tax standpoint, for individual shareholders with a tax residence in France, the distribution of a €2.04 per share (deducted from issue premiums) is considered as a reimbursement of a contribution and is not subject to income tax according to article 112-1° of the French Tax Code. However, this part will be deducted from share acquisition price and will be subject to capital gain taxes when the shares are sold.

What is the tax on the 2015 fiscal year dividend?

From a tax standpoint, for individual shareholders with a tax residence in France, the distribution of a €2 per share (deducted from issue premiums) is considered as a reimbursement of a contribution and is not subject to income tax according to article 112-1° of the French Tax Code. However, this part will be deducted from share acquisition price and will be subject to capital gain taxes when the shares are sold.

What is the tax on the 2014 fiscal year dividend?

From a tax standpoint, for individual shareholders with a tax residence in France, the distribution of €1.92 per share is subject to two separate tax regimes (as per the third resolution subject to AGM vote on April 21, 2015):