- Slovakia’s National Parliament votes overwhelmingly in favor of a bill aiming to cut taxes on cryptocurrency sales, indicating a positive legislative shift towards digital assets.
- The new legislation sets a 7% income tax rate on cryptocurrencies held longer than a year, substantially lowering the previous rate of 19% or 25%.
Slovakia has made a significant stride in embracing the digital economy. On Wednesday, the nation’s lawmakers approved a game-changing law designed to lower taxes on the sale of digital currencies. The decision, overwhelmingly voted 112-2 in favor, underscores the country’s commitment to foster the use of cryptocurrencies in daily transactions.
The newly endorsed income tax bill seeks to
“reduce the tax burden in connection with the sale of virtual currencies, thereby simplifying their use in everyday life,”
as stated in an explanatory document provided by a faction of the Slovak National Council members. A noteworthy feature of the bill is the proposed 7% tax rate on income generated from selling virtual currency held for over a year. Profits from cryptocurrencies held for shorter periods will be taxed along with other taxable income.
This decisive legislative move, resulting from the third reading of the bill in the Council, is a strong signal of Slovakia’s evolving digital currency landscape. As an EU member state, Slovakia is at liberty to set its own tax policies on cryptocurrencies, thereby influencing their popularity within its borders. Notably, tax incentives have previously played a crucial role in drawing the crypto sector to countries like Portugal.
>> Buy Bitcoin quickly and securely with PayPal, credit card or bank transfer at eToro with low fees and deposit protection. Get started with BTC now. Visit Website <<
The revised legislation intends to slash the taxes on the sale of digital currencies held for a minimum of 12 months from a hefty 19% or 25% to a much more manageable 7%. This tax framework mirrors capital gains tax structures but is exclusively applicable to crypto. The interpretation of cryptocurrencies either as securities, akin to stocks, or as commodities resembling fiat currencies, could significantly impact tax policies across the globe.
Furthermore, the bill stipulates exemption of crypto income from a 14% health insurance tax, provided it isn’t marked as a business property by an investor. The passing of this bill by such a large margin suggests Slovakia’s drive to become a European hotspot for crypto enthusiasts. This is particularly relevant in light of recent changes in Portugal’s approach to crypto taxation.
While Portugal’s 2023 budget has instituted a 28% tax on income from digital assets held for under a year, profits derived post the 365-day mark remain tax-free, making the country an attractive hub for long-term crypto holders.
Best Crypto Exchange for Everyone:
- Invest in Ripple (XRP) and 70+ cryptocurrencies and 3,000 other assets.
- 0% commission on stocks – buy in bulk or just a fraction from as little as $10.
- Copy top-performing traders in real time, automatically.
- Regulated by financial authorities including FAC and FINRA.
2.8 Million Users
