"Taxing the Future: Why Most Countries Only Levy Taxes on Realized Gains. A growing debate is underway among economists and policymakers about the fairness of taxing investments only when they yield a profit. In most countries, including the United States, capital gains are only subject to taxes when an asset is sold for a gain. This means that investors can accumulate wealth without paying taxes on their unrealized gains, a phenomenon that has raised concerns about tax evasion and inequality. As governments grapple with the challenge of closing tax loopholes and addressing wealth disparities, the practice of taxing realized gains is coming under increasing scrutiny."
Most countries only impose levies once gains are realised
