An assessment of selected tax burdens and reliefs of hidden champions: Theoretical comparison between Slovakia and Ireland

Abstract

The purpose of the paper is to review and evaluate selected tax burdens and reliefs between Slovakia and Ireland in relation to a specific type of globally successful innovative company introduced to scientific literature as “hidden champion” (HC) by Simon (1990). In the process of writing the work, the following methods of comparison, logical generalization, analysis, and synthesis were used. The results showed that both countries lack in providing specific regime in research and development (R&D), corporate income, and value-added tax (VAT) aspects to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) (including HCs). Moreover, as reported by Ibec (2019), small companies face several challenges to their growth due to taxation. A parallel view on two countries (tax heaven and a classic approach country) provides a great prospect on all gaps in the taxation system. Although improvements are predicted and confirmed every second year, tax policy in the analyzed countries is not fully matched to current situations. The work reveals for the first time the fact that there are few specialized programs for SMEs, getting an exemption or applying for relief is difficult. In general, there is a lack of studies devoted to taxes within the concept of “hidden champions”. This paper contributes to this field from the perspective of policymaking, and it provides valuable insight for practice.