Overview

• The Finance Ministry is examining a levy on buybacks modeled on broad-based schemes abroad, with options around 2%–3% and possible application beyond banks to all listed companies.
• Proceeds are being considered to help finance income‑tax relief for middle earners, while Forza Italia counters with proposals like cutting worker pension contributions on low wages.
• Lega backs asking banks for a contribution after strong profits, but Forza Italia rejects new targeted taxes and calls for dialogue rather than impositions, with Fratelli d’Italia striking a more cautious tone.
• The banking association has not been consulted, according to reporting, and union Fabi says any move would require an agreement with sector representatives.
• Markets showed a modest dip in bank shares on the reports, and estimates suggest a 2% rate could raise roughly €200–300 million, whereas a France‑style design might approach €1 billion depending on scope and base.