So why is it that our tax code favors income gotten through speculation over honest work?
"Speculation" is investments. Honest work was required (and taxed accordingly) before 'speculation' happened.
If you saved $10k (after tax income) and 'speculate' with it, that is your choice. If by choosing what you 'speculate' in , you happen to realize returns from your initial 'speculation', you pay a lower tax rate on your return.
Alternatively, if you lose your entire 'speculation' you don't get to write off the loss.
The tax code encourages the import of investing in our country
We could just do away with 'speculators' and everyone hide their money under their mattress.
Did that help?