A new report from researchers at Deutsche Bank said people should pay 5% for the privilege of working from home — if they continue to do so after the coronavirus pandemic ends.
What’s going on?
Deutsche Bank strategist Luke Templeman said in a new research report that remote workers would be taxed 5% to help pay for those who can’t work from home, and to subsidize income lost by lower-earners, CNBC reports.
- Templeman said remote workers should pay a tax for remote work post-pandemic “in order to smooth the transition process for those who have suddenly been displaced” by the pandemic.
What’s the case for it?
The researchers said remote workers save money on travel, lunch, clothes and cleaning, and they end up spending less on socializing, CNBC reports.
The report said remote workers end up “contributing less to the infrastructure of the economy whilst still receiving its benefits.”
The funds would also help pay for the incomes lost for those who can’t work from home, according to BBC News.
Key quote:
- “For years we have needed a tax on remote workers. COVID has just made it obvious,” wrote Deutsche Bank strategist Luke Templeman.