Financial advisor Akshat Shrivastava has outlined a bold, unconventional strategy aimed at helping professionals maximise earnings and legally minimise tax burdens. In a recent post, he urged mid-career earners and working professionals to think globally when it comes to managing income, investments, and spending—leveraging different countries for optimal financial efficiency.
“Earn in a 0% income tax country. Invest in a capital gains tax-free country. Spend in a low-GST country,” Shrivastava advised. “It’s not easy—but if you believe it’s possible, your mind starts showing you the way.”
According to him, countries like the UAE and Monaco allow residents to legally avoid paying income tax altogether. “People are often surprised to learn that you can receive your full salary without paying any income tax. All it takes is a change in location,” he said.
Once income is secured, Shrivastava recommends investing in nations that do not tax capital gains—such as Singapore or the Cayman Islands. “Your wealth compounds more efficiently when you’re not giving away 10% to 15% of your returns each year,” he explained.
For comparison, India levies a 10% long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax on profits above ₹1 lakh. For instance, someone earning ₹4 lakh in LTCG (about $50,000) would owe approximately ₹5,000 in tax—even after exemptions and deductions. Shrivastava argues that this still makes other jurisdictions more attractive.
“In places like Singapore and the UAE, capital gains are entirely tax-free,” he noted. “That’s one reason why entrepreneurs and investors prefer setting up operations there.”
In countries like the United States, capital gains tax is progressive. Investors earning up to $4,000 in long-term gains pay 0%, with the rate rising to 15% and 20% at higher income brackets. “If your income is modest, you might not pay any capital gains tax at all,” he pointed out.
Meanwhile, countries such as Australia, the UK, and Canada impose moderate capital gains taxes, ranging from $2,300 to $33,500 depending on the income bracket. Shrivastava sees these as middle-ground options—offering regulatory stability alongside relatively reasonable taxation.
When it comes to spending, Shrivastava suggests choosing countries with low indirect taxes, like GST or VAT, to ensure greater purchasing power. “Why live in a high-GST economy when you can stretch your money further in a low-tax country?” he asked.
He emphasised that this approach is not about tax evasion, but rather about lawful and strategic financial planning. “You’re not breaking laws—you’re optimising your life across global systems.”
Shrivastava believes most people remain unaware of the possibilities available through international financial planning. “They live in default mode—accepting high taxes, limited choices, and financial stress. But your mind is a compass. Point it toward freedom, and you’ll find a way.”
As more Indians enter remote-first careers and embrace digital mobility, Shrivastava’s vision could inspire a new generation to explore borderless opportunities for income, investment, and lifestyle freedom.
