The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party proposes radical changes to the country's financial system, including exiting the Eurozone, deregulating Bitcoin trading, and bringing back the Deutsche Mark backed by gold reserves.
Why AfD Wants to Leave the Eurozone
AfD believes that the Deutsche Mark, backed by gold, could become Germany's true monetary identity and proposes to repatriate Germany’s gold reserves held abroad. These ideas face opposition from mainstream parties, who see them as against the country's interests.
Bitcoin Regulation and Cash Protection
AfD calls for an end to 'unnecessary government interference' in crypto wallets and exchanges. They oppose the European Central Bank's digital euro initiative, viewing it as a threat to financial freedom and privacy. Additionally, the party rejects any EU-wide deposit guarantee scheme, arguing that German taxpayers should not bear the costs of bank failures in other countries.
Other Parties' Financial Stances
Social Democrats, led by Olaf Scholz, aim to implement a financial transaction tax and reintroduce the wealth tax. The CDU/CSU, under Friedrich Merz, focuses on attracting startups and venture capital, while supporting a digital euro. The Greens emphasize sustainability and transparency, seeking to empower BaFin and introduce a billionaire tax. The Free Democrats, led by Christian Lindner, maintain their stance on reducing taxes and regulations.
AfD's radical proposals spark a debate among other parties, who take a more cautious approach to financial reforms. The issues of exiting the Eurozone and deregulating cryptocurrencies remain central in political discussions.