The Italian government is examining a new levy of about €1.5 billion on domestic banks while also considering deferring some current obligations, including payments tied to deferred tax assets, according to multiple reports on 27 August. The twin measures are being drafted for inclusion in the 2026 budget bill due next month and would let lenders spread tax payments originally scheduled for this year over a longer period, easing liquidity strains while shoring up state finances. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said a bank contribution will "certainly" feature in the forthcoming budget, and Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti has argued that lenders benefited from higher interest rates and government credit guarantees and should share more of the fiscal burden. Shares of major Milan-listed banks fell after the reports, reviving memories of the surprise 40 percent windfall-profit tax announced—and quickly watered down—in 2023. The new plan is expected to raise slightly less than last year’s levy but would be structured to give banks more time to pay. Deliberations are ongoing and the final proposal is expected to be unveiled with the draft budget in September. The Finance Ministry has not commented publicly on the details.