In the latest issue of IDM Magazine (No. 1/2026), experts from Jabłoński Koźmiński & Partners – Dr Grzegorz Keler(Partner, Head of Tax Law, Corporate Law, and Capital Markets practices) and Barbara Błaszczak (Senior Associate, Tax Advisor) – provide a detailed analysis of the key aspects of VAT accounting in brokerage activities. The article serves as a comprehensive compendium of the specific regulations shaping the day-to-day tax operations of brokerage houses and investment firms in 2026.

The authors focus on three core pillars:

• The “small taxpayer” status: How does the specific threshold for brokerage firms (EUR 45,000 in gross commission) differ from the general threshold, and what tangible benefits (e.g., cash accounting method, quarterly returns) does it offer?
• The reverse charge mechanism: An analysis of the temporary reverse charge mechanism, extended until the end of 2026, applicable to exchange transactions involving gas, electricity, and greenhouse gas emission allowances.
• Pitfalls of statutory exemptions: Where does a “financial service” end and a “technical service” begin? The authors cite key case law from the CJEU and the Supreme Administrative Court (NSA), highlighting why providing market data or acting as an issue sponsor may not qualify for a VAT exemption.

The authors note that while the lack of an exemption may be operationally burdensome, it creates the opportunity to recover input VAT. This, however, requires the implementation of precise cost allocation mechanisms and the determination of an appropriate recovery ratio (proporcja).

We invite you to read the full article in the April issue of IDM Magazine, where our experts also clarify the rules for waiving VAT exemptions and their impact on a firm’s liquidity.