North America

California's billionaire tax: what's at risk for America's biggest state economy

California's proposed billionaire tax could generate quick revenue for the state. But Norway's experience shows the longer-term economic impact of targeting wealthy residents remains uncertain.

Exterior of the California State Capitol building
Exterior of the California State Capitol buildingPhoto: Stephen Leonardi / Pexels
CNBC Top News5 h ago

California lawmakers are weighing a new tax proposal aimed at the state's wealthiest residents. Supporters argue the measure would deliver a fast and substantial boost to state revenue.

Critics point to Norway's experience with a similar approach. After Norway raised its wealth tax, a number of billionaires left the country, narrowing the long-term tax base rather than expanding it.

California anchors America's largest state economy and sits at the heart of the technology sector. Analysts say the risk of high earners and companies relocating elsewhere could offset much of the tax's intended benefit.

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This article is an AI-curated summary of the original story published by CNBC Top News. The illustration is a stock photo by Stephen Leonardi from Pexels and is not from the original story.

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