What forex trading tax applies to Irish residents in 2026?
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Broker mentioned in this answer
Pepperstone
9.4/10Pepperstone serves EU clients through its CySEC-regulated entity (part of a group also licensed by BaFin, the FCA and ASIC), offering razor-sharp spreads, zero minimum deposit, and excellent execution across MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView.
73.7% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
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Related
How is forex trading taxed in Ireland?
In Ireland, retail forex CFD profits are subject to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) at a flat 33%. The annual personal exemption is EUR 1,270 — gains above that are taxable. CFD trades that are very frequent and systematic may be reclassified as trading income subject to PAYE income tax instead. Reported via Form CG1 (Revenue self-assessment).
How is forex trading taxed in the UK?
In the UK, forex CFD profits are taxed as Capital Gains Tax (CGT) at 18% (basic-rate band) or 24% (higher/additional bands) above the £3,000 annual allowance, following the rate rise on 30 October 2024. Spread betting is tax-free for UK residents. Profits must be declared on a self-assessment tax return.
How is forex trading taxed in Europe?
Forex trading tax treatment varies significantly across EU countries. Germany taxes CFD profits at a flat 25% capital gains rate. France treats forex profits as commercial income (up to 45% marginal). The UK taxes most retail forex gains as capital gains (18-24% since 30 October 2024). Spread betting is tax-free in the UK and Ireland only.
Broker review: IC Markets
IC Markets is an ASIC and CySEC-regulated true ECN broker offering one of the deepest cTrader integrations in the industry, with average EUR/USD spreads of 0.02 pips on Raw Spread.
Broker review: Pepperstone
Pepperstone serves EU clients through its CySEC-regulated entity (part of a group also licensed by BaFin, the FCA and ASIC), offering razor-sharp spreads, zero minimum deposit, and excellent execution across MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView.