Ben Zaranko

Stuart Adam, an expert in housing taxation, is joined by IFS economist Ben Zaranko to tackle the complexities of the UK's property tax system. They delve into the absurdities of council tax based on outdated 1991 valuations and discuss how stamp duty discourages home moving, impacting housing allocation. The conversation highlights the need for reforms, such as a proportional council tax that could replace both council tax and stamp duty, ensuring fairness and efficiency in property taxation for all.

Joining the discussion are Stuart Adam, a Senior IFS economist known for his detailed analysis on taxation, and Ben Zaranko, an IFS researcher who makes complex topics more accessible. They delve into the contentious world of wealth taxation, examining why investment income is often taxed less than salaries. The pair highlight the challenges of implementing a wealth tax, including valuation issues and potential avoidance. They also explore the flaws in the UK's inheritance tax system, suggesting reforms to enhance equity and reduce evasion.

Stuart Adam, a Senior IFS tax expert, and Ben Zaranko, an IFS economist specializing in fiscal policy, delve into the intricacies of the UK's income tax system. They discuss the baffling two-tier tax structure and address the inefficiencies caused by cliff edges and frozen thresholds. The duo highlights how these issues distort work incentives and complicate financial planning for many, especially in the case of childcare subsidies. Moreover, they suggest merging income tax and National Insurance to simplify the system and enhance transparency.

In this insightful discussion, guest Ben Zaranko, an economist from the Institute for Fiscal Studies, delves into the grim realities following the recent Spring Statement. He highlights the downgrading of the UK's growth forecasts and the implications of welfare cuts that could escalate poverty rates. The conversation unveils the tougher fiscal landscape, where rising defense budgets conflict with social welfare needs. Zaranko emphasizes the political struggles faced by major parties, particularly Labour, in a shifting economic climate.

Ben Zaranko, a Senior Research Economist at the Institute for Fiscal Studies, breaks down Labour's first budget in nearly 15 years. They discuss the £40 billion tax increase's impact on public spending and the NHS. The conversation delves into the risks tied to increased borrowing and the shift toward a social democracy strategy. Zaranko highlights potential long-term benefits of frontloading investment, while also considering the global economic challenges and implications of US elections on UK trade.