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In this episode of Study for Tax in Your Coffee Break, I’m going through the December 2025 ACCA Irish Advanced Tax Examiner’s Report — and honestly, it’s gold dust. The examiner has given us a clear window into what went well, what didn’t, and where valuable marks were left behind. Whether you’re preparing for your first sitting or reflecting on a recent attempt, this report is packed with insight that you simply cannot afford to ignore.

We walk through all three questions on the paper, including the 50-mark Question 1 with its mix of ethics, financial distress, share disposals and PRSA contributions. I highlight where students slipped up — from VAT on property (you know he loves it!) to gift splitting rules and, most importantly, failing to read the requirements properly. We also unpack Question 2’s specified intangible assets and permanent establishment issues, and Question 3’s termination payments, FED relief and close company transactions with a strong focus on the examiner’s repeated message: "know your conditions and know how to apply them!"

A major theme throughout this paper was professional marks — commercial acumen, skepticism, and real-world thinking. The examiner has clearly raised the bar here, and I share practical advice on how you can prepare for that. If you’re serious about passing this exam, this episode will help you understand exactly what the marking team is looking for — and how to avoid a “bloodbath” in the next sitting.

Resources mentioned in this Episode:

1. December 2025 ACCA Irish Advanced Tax Examiner’s Report
2. ACCA ATX Examiner's Reports Portal
3. "Ep040 Ethics"

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To improve your study for the ACCA ATX Exams this year, head to Paula Byrne's website to purchase the ACCA ATX IRL Revision Book for Exams in 2025 and Tax Conditions - the Spoken Word for audio-based revision.

Thank you to Matthew Bliss for editing and production of this episode. If you'd like him to edit your podcast, send an email to business@mbpod.com or head to https://www.mbpod.com/.