Chris Rokos, a hedge fund billionaire and one of the United Kingdom's top taxpayers, is planning to leave the UK for Greece, according to reports. Rokos intends to establish an office in Athens, taking advantage of Greece's tax incentives for wealthy individuals with overseas income.
Rokos was listed as the third-highest taxpayer in the UK by The Sunday Times, having paid £330 million last year. In March, he committed to donating £190 million to Cambridge University.
While Rokos's representatives have declined to comment, the move underscores the appeal of Greece's tax regime. Foreigners meeting specific criteria can opt to pay a flat annual tax of €100,000 (£86,000) on all income earned abroad. The exact reasons for Rokos's decision are not publicly known.
A UK government spokesperson stated that the country remains an attractive place for talent and investment, highlighting a competitive and stable tax system, deep capital markets, world-class universities, and a skilled workforce. The spokesperson added that the chancellor has prioritized wealth creation.
This development comes ahead of UK Chancellor John Healey's first budget, scheduled for October 28. Healey has not ruled out potential tax increases, amid pressure on public finances due to rising government borrowing costs. He has promised to "balance the books" and "control public spending" but declined to comment on specific tax policies.