Analysis: Millionaires with global mobility may leave Britain due to tax concerns, warns Reuters

By Sinead Cruise

LONDON (Reuters) – Ultra-wealthy entrepreneur Bassim Haidar is facing a difficult decision as he contemplates leaving London due to the proposed inheritance tax revamp. With Prime Minister Keir Starmer settling into power, Haidar is exploring homes in Greece and Monaco, fearing that Britain will no longer be a viable option for the rich.

Starmer’s government aims to create a fairer tax system and generate funds for public services, but Haidar is concerned that the changes may drive away international business owners, potentially harming the economy and jeopardizing the country’s reputation as a hub for emerging firms.

The Conservative government’s unexpected plans to phase out the ‘non-dom’ tax regime added to the uncertainty, and Starmer’s Labour party promised further changes that could impact non-dom individuals born outside the UK who establish trusts within 15 years of moving to Britain.

Haidar is advocating for a different approach, proposing a new six-figure annual tax for individuals with a net worth exceeding £5 million. He believes that a £150,000 levy could raise billions for the government without forcing wealthy individuals to leave the country.

While some organizations are backing the introduction of annual wealth levies on the super-rich, wealth managers serving non-dom clients are on alert for when the tax overhaul might be implemented. The government’s focus on combating domestic tax avoidance adds another layer of complexity to the situation.

According to the Institute for Fiscal Studies, the precise impact of changing tax perks for non-doms is challenging to ascertain due to the nature of their foreign income and assets. The potential exodus of wealthy individuals has sparked concerns about London’s attractiveness as a financial hub.

As Haidar contemplates his options and the possible implications of the tax changes on the wealthy, discussions around investor appeal and the UK’s competitiveness in the global market are intensifying. The Financial Conduct Authority’s efforts to enhance corporate listing rules are aimed at enticing private firms to go public on the London Stock Exchange.

However, Haidar has put his plans to list Optasia on hold and is exploring listing options in more tax-friendly jurisdictions. The ease with which wealthy families can relocate to countries like Dubai and Singapore underscores the need for the UK government to carefully consider the implications of its tax reforms.

With clients already considering up to 17 alternative tax jurisdictions for relocation, the potential loss of U.S. dollar millionaires and the competition from other countries vying for wealthy investors are significant challenges that the UK must address.

In conclusion, the debate over tax reforms and the potential exodus of the wealthy from the UK underscore the delicate balance between generating revenue for public services and maintaining the country’s competitiveness in the global financial landscape. As the government navigates the complexities of tax policy, the repercussions on investor sentiment and the overall economy remain uncertain. Only time will tell how these changes will shape the future of Britain’s position in the global wealth landscape.

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