Holding Period Discounts by Country
France
Under the PFU (30% flat tax), no holding discount applies. Under the optional progressive scale (old régime), discounts exist:
- 50% after 2 years of holding
- 65% after 8 years of holding
United States
The key distinction is short-term vs long-term:
- Short-term (< 1 year): taxed as ordinary income (up to 37%)
- Long-term (≥ 1 year): reduced rates of 0%, 15%, or 20% based on income
Germany
No specific holding discount for stocks. The 26.375% Abgeltungssteuer applies regardless of holding period.