August M
Swiss billionaire Alfred Gantner has urged Switzerland to introduce progressive wealth taxes aimed at the country’s richest households, saying rising inequality demands stronger action.
Switzerland’s position as one of the world’s premier wealth hubs has come under fresh scrutiny after billionaire Alfred Gantner called for new taxes targeting the country’s richest residents.
His proposal comes amid growing debate over how a small group of ultra-wealthy individuals control vast shares of national assets.
A call from inside the elite
According to Reuters, Gantner — co-founder of private equity firm Partners Group — argued in an interview with Tages-Anzeiger that Switzerland needs a progressive wealth tax to address rising inequality.
He suggested a system in which fortunes above 200 million Swiss francs are taxed at 1%, rising to 1.5% for those exceeding a billion.
Gantner said the problem is global, warning that figures like “the Elon Musks, Mark Zuckerbergs and Fredy Gantners” will continue to accumulate enormous wealth over the next two decades without structural reforms.
He added that “luck” played a significant part in his own financial success.
Referendum rejects inheritance levy
His comments gained prominence just as Swiss voters overwhelmingly rejected a separate proposal for a 50% tax on inherited fortunes over 50 million francs. More than 78% voted against the measure — a result even stronger than pre-referendum forecasts.
Swiss authorities estimate that roughly 2,500 people in the country hold wealth above that threshold.
Gantner said inheritance taxes are too easily circumvented and therefore not an effective tool. Instead, he believes that targeted, incremental levies on extreme wealth would be fairer and more viable, notes Reuters.
Inequality back in the spotlight
The debate reflects wider concerns about living costs in Switzerland, where some residents struggle with rent and health insurance despite the country’s reputation for prosperity.
Sources: Reuters
