Capital Gains Tax: Theory and Empirics

This paper reviews theoretical and empirical literature regarding capital gains taxation. First, it provides an introduction to the theory of optimal taxation and capital taxation around the globe. Although a positive analysis shows capital taxation distorts savings behaviour, the paper arguments capital income should be taxed. Further, the effects of a capital gains tax on portfolio behaviour and risk taking are evaluated. The paper concludes that adopting a retrospective capital gains tax, in combination with accrual taxation is probably optimal for social welfare