European University Institute - Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies Windfall taxes | Thorsten Beck Do unexpected corporate profits lead to higher economic inequality? And if so, should these 'windfall gains' be taxed? Thorsten Beck, Director of the Florence School of Banking and Finance, explains what windfall taxes are and why they are applied. 21 November 2023 | Research - Video Print Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Send by email While the rapid increase in energy prices recently has affected many households, it has led to unexpected high profits for energy companies. Some European governments have therefore imposed taxes on such companies. In this Schuman Short, Professor Thorsten Beck explains the rationale behind these taxes and questions whether they can be economically justified. Thorsten Beck is Director of the Florence School of Banking and Finance and Professor of Financial Stability. Last update: 21 November 2023