Swiss Billionaire Advocates Progressive Wealth Taxation

Swiss billionaire Alfred Gantner calls for higher taxes on the wealthy, criticizing the concentration of wealth. Despite 78% of Swiss voters rejecting an inheritance tax proposal, Gantner proposes progressive wealth taxation to address economic disparity. He remains skeptical of deeper economic ties with the EU.

Alfred Gantner, a prominent Swiss billionaire and co-founder of Partners Group, has sparked debate by calling for increased taxation on the wealthy. Despite a significant 78% of Swiss voters rejecting an inheritance tax proposal, Gantner argues that the concentration of wealth requires urgent remedies.

In an interview with the Swiss newspaper Tages-Anzeiger, Gantner stated, "It can't be that a few people in this country have huge fortunes and others don't know how they're going to pay their health insurance and their rent." He warned that figures like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg could continue to amass even more wealth if no action is taken.

While Gantner acknowledges luck in his fortune accumulation, he dismisses inheritance taxes as ineffective, suggesting instead a progressive wealth tax. He also remains critical of strengthening Switzerland's economic ties with the EU, maintaining his position among the world's top billionaires.

(With inputs from agencies.)