Agenda Profile: Maria Jufereva-Skuratovski
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 speaker strongly opposes the Center Party’s proposal to introduce a temporary banking sector solidarity tax, labeling it populist and superficial. He/She supports the existing permanent bank tax system (advance corporate income tax), emphasizing the need for stability and predictability in economic policy. The political position is strongly policy-driven, focusing on negative long-term consequences. The Reform Party does not support the draft legislation.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates in-depth knowledge of the taxation of the Estonian banking sector, presenting specific data on revenues and tax rates (e.g., €641 million in additional revenue, advance corporate income tax). They use the Lithuanian case study to illustrate the negative repercussions of the temporary tax, highlighting the drastic decline in venture capital investments (from 222 million to 7 million) and the subsequent outflow of fintech companies. The analysis also covers the capital requirements and competitive landscape for local banks (LHV, Coop Pank).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker’s style is analytical and critical, accusing the opposing side of populism and superficiality. He relies heavily on logical arguments and detailed data (tax revenues, the drop in investments in Lithuania) to support his position. Irony is used at the beginning regarding the Center Party's attendance in the chamber and their interest in proceeding with their draft bill.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participated in the first reading of Riigikogu Bill 535 OE, presenting both questions and a lengthy speech of opposition. They requested additional time to fully articulate their position. No other patterns of activity or events are mentioned in the transcripts of the speeches.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism is aimed at the Centre Party, whose proposed bill is being branded as populist and lacking proper analysis. The criticism is both political and procedural, warning that the bill is an appealing "Robin Hood-esque idea" that would actually damage the economy. Furthermore, the Centre Party is being ironically criticized for its lack of interest in the floor debate regarding its own bill.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker clearly represents the position of the Reform Party, confirming that the party does not support the bill. He/She refers to the government's previous agreement with banks concerning the taking of extraordinary dividends. There is no information regarding a willingness to compromise or cooperate with other parties.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on Estonia’s domestic economic environment and international comparisons, particularly the analysis of negative consequences stemming from Lithuania. Among regional projects, the magnet factory being built in Narva by Canadian investors is cited as proof of successful economic policy. Reference is also made to the consolidation of SEB’s Baltic business administration in Tallinn.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker strongly advocates for a stable and predictable tax environment, warning that temporary taxes send a negative signal to businesses and could potentially spread to other sectors. He emphasizes the significant contribution of the current bank tax to the state budget and defends the growth capacity of local banks (LHV, Coop Pank) as necessary for maintaining competition. He strongly opposes ideas of redistribution that undermine long-term economic growth.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is opposing the Centre Party's proposed Riigikogu draft resolution (535 OE) concerning the introduction of a temporary solidarity tax on the banking sector. The speaker is a staunch opponent of the bill, stressing the lack of proper analysis and the potential negative repercussions, while supporting the current system of advance corporate income tax.
3 Speeches Analyzed