Agenda Profile: Mart Võrklaev
Draft resolution "Proposal to the Republic of Estonia's Government Regarding the Imposition of a Temporary Solidarity Tax on the Banking Sector" (535 OE) – First Reading
2025-02-18
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political position is one of strong opposition to the new solidarity tax on the banking sector, stressing that the existing tax system is already highly beneficial for both the state and its citizens. The focus is on a results-based framework, highlighting significantly increased tax revenues (with nearly one billion euros forecasted between 2023 and 2028).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker exhibits deep knowledge regarding the taxation of the banking sector, utilizing specific data and statistics concerning the growth of tax revenue. He/She is proficient in technical terminology such as quarterly income tax and income tax on dividends, and cites the exact tax rates (14%, 18%, 22%).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is predominantly logical and data-driven, relying on specific financial indicators and tax rates to substantiate arguments. The tone is authoritative, and in the second address, it becomes direct and highlights the opposing side's inconsistencies, raising a question about the 2023 vote.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Based on the data, two consecutive interventions can be seen during the Riigikogu session's discussion of the same topic (the bank tax). One of these is a longer explanatory statement, and the other is a short political question.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opponents are the proponents of the new solidarity tax (referred to as "good Andrei"). The criticism targets both political consistency (specifically, questions regarding the 2023 vote) and the substance of the policy, arguing that their proposal is superfluous because the existing system is functioning effectively. The opponent is further accused of being unaware that an existing bank tax is already in place.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is entirely at the national level, addressing the taxation of the Estonian banking sector and its impact on the state budget.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views support the current tax regime, which stipulates heavy taxation of bank profits and dividends (18% and 22%). The profitability of the banking sector is considered beneficial to the state, emphasizing the fiscal gain that the state earns thanks to the existing taxes.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Legislative focus is currently centered on opposing the solidarity tax bill (535 Draft Act). The speaker highlights previous achievements, specifically raising the income tax on dividends to 22% and increasing the standard corporate income tax for the banking sector to 18%, measures which have resulted in a threefold growth in tax revenue for the state.
2 Speeches Analyzed