The German Green Party (Bündnis 90/Die Grünen) has proposed abolishing the current one-year tax exemption for gains on cryptocurrency holdings. Under the existing structure, investors can sell Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies tax-free if held for over a year. This favorable policy has encouraged long-term holding strategies within the German cryptocurrency market.
Tax Equity and Potential Impact
The Green Party argues this change would create a more equitable tax system, aligning the treatment of cryptocurrencies with other investment assets. Green Party representative Sabine Grützmacher pointed to the 2009 removal of a similar holding period exemption for stocks. Currently, many countries tax gains on investments like stocks and bonds as capital gains tax, often at a lower rate than regular income tax.
The removal of the crypto tax exemption could lead to long-term investors facing increased tax burdens. The impact on short-term gains might be less substantial, as such trading income is likely already subject to capital gains tax. If these changes take effect, some analysts predict a potential disincentive for long-term cryptocurrency holding in Germany.
Opposition and Uncertain Future
Currently, no specific legislative drafts exist, and the proposal could face opposition. Frank Schäffler, a Bundestag member of the Free Democratic Party (FDP), expressed a view that the proposal would introduce unnecessary complexity into the tax system and discourage investment overall. Additionally, established lobbying interests within the commodities and broader finance industries may advocate against the change.
“The Greens’ demand would further complicate our tax system. That’s not something we’re going to do. Therefore, it won’t happen either. Capital formation in Germany must not be made more difficult, but must be simplified. On the contrary, we need to further increase the exemption limit for under-year sales. The increase from 600 to 1000 euros can only be a first step.”
Frank Schäffler, MdB (FDP). The quote was directly translated from German.
The outcome of this proposal remains uncertain. However, the debate highlights the evolving treatment of cryptocurrencies as they establish themselves within mainstream financial systems.
