What does this mean for gold holders?

 

As of 1 January 2026, a new regulation will come into force in Belgium regarding capital gains tax on certain financial assets. This measure will be introduced through a transitional regime, pending the definitive legislation, which is expected to be approved by Parliament during 2026.

 

As there are many questions and misunderstandings surrounding this topic, we would like to clearly explain what this regulation means in practice for gold holders.

 

 

What is capital gains tax?

 

Capital gains tax refers to taxation on the realised profit when private individuals sell certain financial assets.

From 1 January 2026, this tax amounts to 10% of the taxable capital gain, provided that the annual exemption threshold is exceeded.

 

The regulation applies, among others, to:

 

• shares
• cryptocurrencies
• ETFs
• and, under certain conditions: investment gold

 

 

What does this mean specifically for gold?

 

✔️ Investment gold only

 

The regulation applies exclusively to investment gold, such as:

 

• gold bars
• legally recognised investment coins (including Krugerrand, Maple Leaf, Philharmoniker)

 

Jewellery is not covered by this regulation, provided there is no speculative or professional trading activity.

 

✔️ Only capital gains after 31 December 2025

 

Only capital gains realised after 31 December 2025 may be taxable.
Value increases accrued before that date remain exempt through the transitional valuation set at the end of 2025.

 

✔️ Annual exemption

 

An exemption of €10,000 in realised capital gains per person and per calendar year applies.
Capital gains tax is only due on the portion exceeding this threshold.

At present, there is no definitive clarity regarding the transferability or accumulation of unused exemptions. This will depend on the final legislative text and implementing measures.

 

✔️ No automatic withholding for physical gold

 

For many financial products, tax collection is handled by banks or brokers through withholding at source.

For physical investment gold, it is currently предусмотрено that:

 

• no automatic withholding takes place
• the seller is personally responsible for declaring the capital gain in their personal income tax return
• the application of the exemption also occurs via the personal tax return

 

A correct and transparent administration therefore remains essential.

 

 

Transitional regime as of 1 January 2026

 

Although the definitive legislation is only expected later in 2026, a transitional regime will already apply from 1 January 2026.
For investment gold, this regime aligns with the intended final system, based on the principle that only capital gains realised after 31 December 2025 are taxable.

 

 

Key facts at a glance

 

• The regulation applies to certain financial assets, including investment gold under specific conditions
• The first €10,000 of realised capital gains per year is exempt
• The tax rate is 10%
• Only capital gains after 31 December 2025 are taxable
• For physical gold, no automatic withholding applies; declaration is made via the personal income tax return

 

 

Acknowledgement & New Year wishes

 

We would like to sincerely thank our clients for the trust they have placed in our company for decades.

 

In 2026, we celebrate 70 years of Edelmetaal Richard.
This milestone reflects our long-standing tradition of craftsmanship, reliability and continuity.

 

In 2025, Egzon was appointed CEO, marking the official transition to the third generation of leadership.

This transition symbolises stability and a long-term vision, with one clear objective: building towards 100 years of Edelmetaal Richard.

 

We show respect for every transaction, regardless of size.
With us, payments are not delayed, but executed instantly.

You also benefit from direct telephone contact with our family and our team — without waiting times or intermediaries.

 

• continuous trading in gold
• the fastest payouts in the Benelux
• the highest standard of service

 

This is not a promise, but a way of working.
Yesterday, today and tomorrow.

 

Finally, on behalf of the entire team, we wish you a healthy, successful and prosperous 2026.

 

With thanks and trust,
Edelmetaal Richard