What tax and financial issues arise when gaming studios operate internationally?
In this article, we explore some of the key tax and financial issues that can arise when game studios operate internationally.
Outsourcing for gaming companies
Running a successful gaming studio takes more than creative ideas and talented developers. Behind the scenes, studios face complex financial and admin demands – from tracking project budgets and assets, to preparing investor-ready reports and navigating specialist reliefs like Video Game Expenditure Credit (VGEC) and Video Games Tax Relief (VGTR). Keeping all this in-house can be costly and often impractical, especially for smaller or fast-growing businesses.
Outsourcing these functions gives gaming businesses access to the right expertise at the right level – without the expense of building a full in-house team. Whether it’s day-to-day bookkeeping or complex reporting, outsourcing frees up time for gaming companies to focus on what they do best.
Why outsource finance for gaming studios?
- Cost effective: Hiring an in-house finance team with the full range of expertise is expensive. Outsourcing gives you access to specialists across all levels – from bookkeeping through to FD-level advice.
- Sector expertise: Gaming finance comes with unique challenges, such as valuing work-in-progress, tracking assets, and applying for reliefs like VGEC and VGTR. Our team is passionate about the sector, which shows in our knowledge and the processes involved.
- Time saving: By outsourcing tasks, studios can focus their time on creativity and growth.
- Investor confidence: Strong financial reporting and forecasting is critical when pitching for funding. Outsourced support ensures the data is accurate, clear, and ready for investors.
How Price Bailey supports gaming businesses
At Price Bailey, we combine accounting and outsourcing expertise with a real passion for the gaming sector. Many of our team are keen gamers themselves, and we bring both technical knowledge and genuine interest to every project.
Our support can cover:
- Bookkeeping and management accounts
- Cashflow management and forecasts
- Tax compliance and advice, including VGEC and VGTR.
- Budget tracking and reporting against milestones
- Support with investment pitches and funding rounds
- International reporting and compliance, working with our global partners where needed
What makes us different is the flexibility we offer. Outsourcing with us isn’t a one-size-fits-all package. Some gaming companies need full finance function support, while others just want help setting up finance systems and accounting packages, or building management reports. We work with you to find the right fit.
The biggest benefit of outsourcing with Price Bailey
Alongside expertise, we place huge importance on relationships. We enjoy working in this sector and are genuinely invested in helping gaming studios succeed. Our clients get the reassurance of knowing their finances are under control, and a partner who is enthusiastic about their industry. For many, that combination is just as valuable as the technical work.
Let’s talk
Every gaming business is different, and so are its financial needs. That’s why we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all outsourcing package.
Whether you’re an indie studio still finding your feet, a developer, or an established publisher with international operations, the best way forward is often just a conversation, free of charge.
Even if nothing comes of it immediately, you’ll walk away with ideas to improve your processes – and we’ll better understand the challenges businesses in the industry are facing.
Industry knowledge that goes beyond numbers
From attending key industry events to building relationships with developers and trade bodies, our presence in the gaming space is growing rapidly.
We’ve joined Ukie and are delighted to have been invited to join TIGA, two of the most influential trade bodies in the sector.
We’re also actively working on VGEC (Video Games Expenditure Credit) claims for newly released and upcoming titles. This includes assessing whether games qualify as culturally British – a process that has even involved hands-on access to the games themselves.
And then there’s PB Plays – our internal initiative that blends fun with insight. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just curious, PB Plays is a chance to engage with the sector in a light-hearted way.
FAQ’s
What if our team is spread across different countries?
Outsourcing works regardless of geography. Depending on your structure, we can support internationally through our connections in IAPA.
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We can help
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