PANews 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, allowing for tax exemption for holdings exceeding one year, which was considered one of the most favorable Bitcoin tax policies globally.

Critics point out that this move directly contradicts the ruling coalition's previous tax revenue promises, 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 for violating 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. Bitpanda co-founder Eric Demuth called the move "an extremely foolish decision" that will only increase bureaucratic costs and complexity, offering little real benefit to the country.