Senate Probes Pantera Capital founder Over $850M Puerto Rico Tax Break

A Senate committee is investigating whether Pantera Capital founder Dan Morehead exploited federal tax laws by relocating to Puerto Rico, a well-known tax haven. The inquiry was led by Senator Ron Wyden, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee.

Key Takeaways: – The Senate Finance Committee is investigating whether Pantera Capital founder Dan Morehead improperly used Puerto Rico’s tax incentives to avoid U.S. taxes. – The inquiry focuses on whether wealthy individuals are misapplying Puerto Rico’s tax breaks to income earned outside the island.

According to a letter sent by Wyden on January 9, the committee is examining tax compliance among affluent Americans who have moved to Puerto Rico to benefit from local tax incentives.

These tax breaks can significantly reduce or even eliminate federal tax obligations on certain income sources. The investigation is particularly scrutinizing individuals who may have inappropriately applied the tax exemptions to income earned outside of Puerto Rico.

The letter mentions concerns that substantial portions of the gains reported by such individuals should still be subject to U.S. taxation. Specifically, it requests detailed information from Pantera Capital founder regarding $850 million in investment profits generated after his relocation.

The document suggests that Morehead may have classified these earnings as tax-exempt under Puerto Rican law, potentially avoiding U.S. taxes. In response, the Pantera Capital founder stated that he moved to Puerto Rico in 2021 and believes he has complied with tax regulations.

Pantera Capital, founded by Morehead in 2003 and based in Menlo Park, California, was initially a traditional investment firm before transitioning to a cryptocurrency-focused fund in 2013. The company has since invested in over 100 projects and manages approximately $5 billion in assets. It offers a range of investment products tailored to different risk profiles for both U.S. and international investors.

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