Making Money Why wealth taxes fail - and what we should do instead
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Jun 16, 2025 
Dan Neidle, a tax expert and former lawyer who leads Tax Policy Associates, argues against wealth taxes as a solution to tax fairness. He highlights the inefficiencies of current tax systems and suggests that a land tax could be a more equitable option. The conversation includes critiques of common tax narratives, the challenges of political reform, and misconceptions about taxing the wealthy. Neidle's insights draw from his extensive experience to advocate for simpler, evidence-based tax policies that foster productivity and address systemic inequalities.
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Tax Complexity Harms Economy
- Most advanced countries have complex and inefficient tax systems due to accumulated political compromises.
- Taxes like stamp duty discourage mobility and economic growth but reform faces political resistance.
Taxing Rich Isn’t The Big Answer
- Taxing the rich more is politically popular but economically ineffective.
- The median earner bears more tax in countries with larger welfare states, not the very rich.
Focus on Closing Loopholes
- Campaigners should focus on closing loopholes and simplifying tax laws to achieve real change.
- Pursuing wealth taxes wastes resources on policies that will never be adopted.