Adóvagy

Adóvagy, commonly known as "tax avoidance," refers to the practice of legally minimizing tax liabilities through the use of legal strategies, structures, or exemptions. Unlike tax evasion, which involves illegal methods to evade taxes, tax avoidance is conducted within the boundaries of the law. It often involves leveraging tax codes, deductions, credits, or offshore accounts to reduce the amount of taxable income or the overall tax burden.

In many jurisdictions, tax avoidance is a legitimate and widely practiced method of financial planning. Businesses and individuals may use strategies such as setting up trusts, utilizing tax-free investments, or taking advantage of tax treaties between countries to lower their taxable income. Some common techniques include deferring income, shifting profits to lower-tax jurisdictions, or claiming legitimate deductions and exemptions.

Critics argue that aggressive tax avoidance can lead to unfair competition, as some entities may exploit loopholes to pay significantly less tax than others. This has prompted governments to introduce stricter regulations, such as the introduction of controlled foreign company (CFC) rules or the implementation of transparency measures like the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) to combat tax evasion and aggressive avoidance. The distinction between legitimate tax planning and abusive practices often depends on the intent and the specific legal framework of the jurisdiction.

Tax avoidance is a complex and evolving field, influenced by changes in legislation and international cooperation. While it remains a legal practice, ongoing debates continue regarding its ethical implications and the need for fairer tax systems.