Capital Gains Tax Hike: A Blow to Investors
October 2024’s Autumn Budget delivered a significant blow to investors with the announcement of increased Capital Gains Tax (CGT) rates. Today, we explore the new rates, how they will affect the sale of assets, and how investors can mitigate their effects.
The New Capital Gains Tax Rates
Effective from 30th October 2024, the basic rate of CGT will rise from 10% to 18%, and the higher rate will increase from 20% to 24%.
What This Means for Investors
These changes will make it more expensive for investors to realise gains from selling assets like shares, bonds, and cryptocurrency. This could lead to a number of consequences, including:
- Reduced investment activity — investors may be less inclined to sell assets, particularly if they expect to make significant gains;
- A shift towards tax-efficient investments — investors may seek out tax-efficient investments, such as ISAs and pensions;
- A greater need for tax planning — investors may require more sophisticated tax planning strategies to minimise tax liabilities.
How Can Investors Mitigate the Impact of the CGT Increases?
Investors have several ways to mitigate the worst effects of the CGT rate increases. They can:
- Seek professional advice — a good tax advisor like Taxfile can help investors understand the full impact of the changes and develop a tax-efficient strategy;
- Review their investment portfolios to identify the potential tax implications of the new CGT rates;
- Utilise tax-efficient investments, for example, through the use of tax-efficient wrappers like ISAs and pensions;
- Time investments wisely — carefully timing the sale of assets may help to significantly reduce CGT liabilities.
Taxfile is Here to Help
Taxfile is here to help proactive investors navigate the new tax landscape and protect wealth. Contact us today if you would like professional help with any tax or accountancy-related issue. We’ll be delighted to help. The first 20-minute consultation is free and without obligation.
