Session Profile: Andre Hanimägi

The speaker's main political position is strong support for greater solidarity and taxation within the banking sector, aimed at channeling temporary excess profits back into society. He is critical of high loan interest rates coupled with low deposit interest rates, viewing this as a matter of social justice. Although he supports the idea of a bank tax (an initiative by the Social Democrats), he opposes the specific bill currently under discussion, arguing that it would result in erratic state tax policy and jeopardize financial stability. Furthermore, he is wary of real estate acquisition by individuals originating from beyond the eastern border, citing security considerations.

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the fields of banking and fiscal policy, utilizing extensive statistical data and technical terminology. They cite precise figures (for example, a 940 million euro profit in 2023, the increase in loan interest rates, 120 million euros in supplementary income tax) and clarify complex mechanisms such as Euribor, advance income tax liability, and capital reduction. Furthermore, they are knowledgeable about the connections between real estate regulation and security.

The speaker's rhetorical style is analytical, highly detailed, and critical, particularly concerning the activities of banks, yet simultaneously measured when discussing state policy. He/She relies heavily on logical arguments and data, citing statistics from the Bank of Estonia and various analyses. The tone is formal but also incorporates emotional elements, referencing the public outrage and furore that has emerged within society.

The speaker actively participates in the plenary session, both by posing questions to the rapporteurs of the draft legislation and by delivering longer, in-depth speeches. At the conclusion of their presentation, they request additional time, which demonstrates a desire to address the subject matter exhaustively.

The main criticism is aimed at banks, which are accused of earning excessive profits at the expense of borrowers and demonstrating insufficient solidarity with society. He/She indirectly criticizes the agreement reached within the coalition regarding the replacement of the bank tax, deeming it questionable due to the timing and the reduction of capital. Furthermore, he/she rejects the criticism from Martin Helme (EKRE) regarding the Social Democrats' alleged 180-degree reversal on the bank tax issue.

The speaker emphasizes the role the Social Democrats played in the coalition by proposing the bank tax, which demonstrates a readiness to cooperate with their coalition partners. At the same time, he/she acknowledges that the proposal failed to gain support within the coalition, indicating the necessity of making compromises. He/she stresses that the issue of solidarity will remain on the agenda for the SDE going forward.

The speaker extends the topic of economic solidarity to the regional level, stressing that the banking sector's contribution must also reach rural areas. They note that obtaining loans and developing businesses is particularly complicated in rural regions, contrasting this situation with Tallinn and Tartu.

The speaker strongly advocates for a social democratic approach, demanding the introduction of a bank solidarity tax on temporary windfall profits. He criticizes high loan interest rates and stresses the need for more favorable lending conditions for both businesses and residents. He is concerned about the state's erratic tax policy, which could undermine financial stability and incentivize the outflow of assets.

The speaker focuses on themes of social justice and solidarity in the economic environment, demanding that the financial success of the banking sector be transformed into tangible benefits for the entire society. Additionally, he addresses a social issue related to security, specifically concerning the acquisition of real estate during aggression originating from beyond the eastern border.

The speaker is currently working on two pieces of legislation: one concerning the restriction of real estate acquisition on security grounds, and the second dealing with the taxation of banks. He opposes the specific banking bill because he believes it would create inconsistency in national policy, but he is a strong supporter of the bank tax idea proposed by the Social Democrats. He is requesting statistical analysis and data related to both bills.