Study – Tax Incentives and Investments in the EU: Best Practices and Ways to Stimulate Private Investments and Prevent Harmful Tax Practices – 20-05-2025

Source: European Parliament

This study evaluates the effectiveness of tax incentives, with a particular focus on incentives for research and development (R&D). It analyses different design options for tax incentives and shows that input-based R&D tax incentives appear to be the most effective in stimulating additional R&D investment. Taking into account the lessons learnt from empirical evaluations and the restrictions imposed by Pillar Two, refundable, volume-based tax credits with a broad scope remain a convincing way forward for R&D tax incentives.