Family business leaders express concern over the government’s proposed increase in wealth tax.

Marie-Christine Ostermann, chair of the Association of Family Entrepreneurs, criticized the government’s plan to raise the wealth tax, arguing it could harm economic growth and discourage investment. Ostermann stated that such measures risk penalizing successful businesses and individuals who contribute significantly to the economy.

The reform package, presented by the coalition of Union and SPD, includes changes to income tax, labor market regulations, and stricter rules for sick leave. While some experts acknowledge positive aspects like deregulation and digitalization, others, including Jens Boysen-Hogrefe from the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, remain skeptical about its overall impact on growth. The higher wealth tax has sparked debate, with proponents calling it a necessary step for funding relief measures for lower-income groups.