ED investigates alleged fake foreign ESOPs used to launder money and dodge remittance rules

Sources suggest ESOPs may be staged

The Enforcement Directorate has begun probing employee stock options (ESOPs) offered by foreign firms to Indian workers. The investigation focuses on whether such ESOPs were misused to launder money and circumvent foreign remittance rules. Experts warn that fake or manipulated ESOP arrangements could help hide overseas funds or push remittances beyond permissible limits.