Convertible loan agreements play an important role above all in the area of venture capital financing – whether at the very beginning as part of early-stage financing or also later in the growth phase, for example for interim financing between two investment rounds. The formal requirements to be taken into account when concluding convertible loan agreements in which a GmbH is the borrower are controversial in practice and case law. A recent decision by the Zweibrücken Higher Regional Court could provide a degree of legal certainty.

The Annual Tax Act 2022 includes adjustments of the methods for valuing domestic real estate, which may lead to significantly higher real estate values. Real estate gifts will be particularly affected by this. From 1 January 2023, higher gift tax charges are to be expected in many cases. However, whether action is required shortly before the end of the year depends on the type and location of the property and the available market data from the local appraisal committee.

The foundation law currently in force urgently needs to be reformed. German foundations pursue almost exclusively charitable purposes and have often existed for several hundred years. Currently more than 23,000 foundations exist in Germany. The following article deals with the adopted changes in foundation law with a special focus on the actual innovations, which go beyond a mere unification.