Bill Gates wants ultra-wealthy individuals to pay more tax — and now a growing chorus of billionaires agree.

In his annual “Ask Me Anything” forum on Reddit last year, the Microsoft cofounder said he was “surprised” that taxes for the rich haven’t been increased more.

Gates doubled down on his calls to tax the rich in a panel at the World Economic Forum in Davos this week. He said the wealthiest nations should donate more money to developing countries to help redress inequality.

“Those who have the most — whether it’s countries, companies, or individuals — should be pushed to be more generous,” he said.

It seems others agree, as more than 250 ultra-wealthy people signed an open letter calling for global leaders to impose a wealth tax.

  • AnAngryAlpaca@feddit.de
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    10 months ago

    What would stop them from just funding housing, healthcare or education by themselves, if they want to contribute to society?

    • Tubics@lemmy.world
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      10 months ago

      It’s still a massive difference to taxes. Society should decide where the money goes, not the wealthy individuals themselves

    • knatschus@discuss.tchncs.de
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      10 months ago

      That would put them behind those who wouldn’t do it, if every rich person is forced to pay more taxes noone loses power

      • nybble41@programming.dev
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        10 months ago

        Bingo. They could do it themselves, but they want to spend other people’s money, not just their own. Same as any other tax. Bonus PR points for appearing “generous”.