Statement by Stéphanie Auféril – Parliamentary Committee:
On April 28, 2026, our partner Stéphanie Auféril testified before the National Assembly’s commission of inquiry on the taxation of the wealthiest individuals and the highest incomes.
She participated in her capacity as co-chair of the “Wealth Taxation” committee of the Institute of Tax Lawyers (IACF), alongside other recognized practitioners in the field.
Read the full statement here.
A contribution at the heart of a major debate
This hearing is part of the work of a parliamentary investigative committee established in early 2026, tasked with analyzing the role and contribution of high net worth individuals to the financing of public services.
Against a backdrop of intense debate surrounding changes to the tax framework applicable to high net worth individuals, the successive hearings organized by the National Assembly aim to inform lawmakers on:
- current wealth taxation mechanisms,
- the practices of taxpayers and advisory professionals,
- the economic and legal challenges associated with any reform,
- as well as the potential consequences for the country’s attractiveness and investment.
The contribution of IACF expertise and practitioners
Stéphanie Auféril’s participation underscores the essential role of practitioners in building an effective and balanced tax system.
As co-chair of the IACF’s Wealth Taxation Committee, she represents a community of experts who work daily with families and entrepreneurs, particularly in complex international contexts.
This position enables her to contribute to parliamentary work by providing:
- an operational and concrete perspective on existing tax rules,
- insight into the interactions between tax law, civil law, and wealth structuring,
- an analysis of the actual effects of tax measures on taxpayer behavior,
- as well as a nuanced understanding of the challenges of legal certainty and regulatory stability.
Key issues for wealth taxation
The discussions initiated by the parliamentary committee focus on issues that are fundamental to the future of taxation in France, notably:
- the balance between tax revenue and economic competitiveness,
- the distinction between productive and non-productive assets,
- the fight against tax optimization schemes perceived as excessive,
- and the need to ensure a clear and sustainable framework for taxpayers.
In this context, contributions from legal and financial professionals play a decisive role in avoiding theoretical approaches disconnected from economic realities.
Arkwood’s Engagement in Public Debate
Stéphanie Auféril’s presentation illustrates Arkwood’s commitment to public debates regarding wealth taxation and the evolution of the legal framework.
As a firm recognized for its expertise in wealth and tax planning, Arkwood works to:
- support its clients in complex and international legal environments,
- actively contribute to the collective discussion on legislative developments,
- and promote a balanced approach that reconciles legal certainty, economic efficiency, and tax fairness.
Vision and Outlook
The commission’s findings are expected to inform future legislative discussions, particularly in the context of upcoming finance bills.
In a rapidly changing environment, Arkwood will continue to closely monitor these developments in order to anticipate their impact on its clients and to contribute, through its expertise, to the quality of the legal and tax debate.
