The German government is considering adjusting the tax system for crypto assets, potentially eliminating the one-year tax exemption for Bitcoin holdings.

CoinFeed reported on May 7th that, according to Bitcoin News, German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil confirmed that the German government plans to adopt a "different" tax policy for Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, potentially abolishing the long-standing policy of tax exemption for holdings exceeding one year, and instead taxing them like stocks. Previously, German law treated Bitcoin as a privately disposed asset, similar to gold, exempting it from taxation for holdings exceeding one year, considered one of the most favorable Bitcoin tax policies globally. Critics point out that this move directly contradicts previous tax promises made by the ruling coalition, reflecting the government's eagerness to find new sources of revenue under heavy tax burdens. Legal scholars warn that differential taxation of Bitcoin could face legal challenges due to its violation of the principle of equal protection in the German constitution, as long-term holders make investment decisions based on the existing framework. Austria has already abolished its tax exemption policy for holding periods.