Just In: Germany’s AfD Calls for Euro Exit and Bitcoin Deregulation Before Election

As Germany prepares for its parliamentary election on February 23, political parties are outlining their financial policies. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is pushing for the country to leave the euro and deregulate Bitcoin, setting it apart from other major parties.

AfD Proposes Euro Exit and Bitcoin Deregulation

The AfD is calling for Germany to abandon the euro and reinstate the Deutsche mark, backed by gold reserves. This proposal opposes the broad public and business support for the euro. The party also demands that Germany repatriate its gold reserves held abroad.

On cryptocurrency, the AfD seeks “extensive deregulation” of Bitcoin, wallets, and trading. This approach contrasts with the cautious stance of German financial regulators.

The party also opposes a digital euro, which the European Central Bank is developing. Additionally, it wants to enshrine cash as a constitutional right, ensuring its continued use in daily transactions.

CDU/CSU Supports Financial Growth and Tax Adjustments

The CDU/CSU alliance, led by Friedrich Merz, is ahead in the polls and aims to strengthen Germany’s financial sector. The party supports expanding European capital markets and making Germany a leading destination for venture capital and startups.

In taxation, CDU/CSU plans to increase tax-free allowances to reduce inheritance tax and property purchase costs.

The party also opposes reinstating the wealth tax, which has been suspended for decades. Additionally, the alliance wants to create a customs police force with greater authority to combat money laundering and financial crime.

SPD and Greens Push for Higher Taxes on Wealthy Individuals

Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democrats (SPD) support a tax on financial transactions, similar to those in other European countries. The party also wants to tax the wealthiest individuals and adjust inheritance taxes to increase payments on large estates.

“The super-rich should be more involved in financing the common good,” the SPD platform states.

The Greens share similar tax policies and propose a global billionaire’s tax. The party seeks to enhance financial crime enforcement by creating a national service center focused on cryptocurrency misuse. Additionally, the Greens advocate for stricter rules to prevent hidden financial assets in corporate structures.

US Crypto Czar Signals Changes in Bitcoin and Crypto Regulation

In the United States, cryptocurrency regulation is shifting under the new leadership of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The newly appointed “crypto czar” has raised discussions about potential changes in Bitcoin reserves and the regulatory approach toward digital assets.

There are ongoing debates about whether the U.S. should consider holding Bitcoin as part of its reserves, following the example of some corporate institutions and countries. At the same time, policymakers are evaluating whether deregulation could encourage innovation or increase financial risks.