Skip to main content
2026 Comparison

Investment Comparator

Compare net returns after tax across 6 investments: Livret A, LDDS, Life Insurance, PEA, CTO, and SCPI.

Loading...

Choosing the right investment for your horizon

The best investment depends on your time horizon and tax situation. Short term, regulated savings accounts (Livret A, LDDS) offer security and liquidity. Medium to long term, PEA and life insurance benefit from significant tax advantages. CTO offers total freedom but is subject to the 30% flat tax.

French tax envelopes compared

Livret A is tax-exempt but capped at 22,950 EUR. Life insurance benefits after 8 years from a 4,600 EUR allowance (9,200 EUR for couples) on gains. PEA is exempt from capital gains tax after 5 years (excluding 17.2% social charges). CTO is subject to the 30% flat tax. SCPIs are taxed as property income (TMI + 17.2%).

Gross vs net return: the importance of taxation

A 7% gross return in CTO (30% flat tax) yields 4.9% net. The same 7% in PEA after 5 years yields 5.8% net (17.2% social charges only). Over 20 years, this difference represents tens of thousands of euros. That's why comparing net returns, not gross, is essential.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best investment in 2026?
There's no universal answer. PEA is ideal for long-term stocks (reduced taxation), life insurance for flexibility, and Livret A for emergency savings.
PEA or CTO: which to choose?
PEA is fiscally superior after 5 years (17.2% vs 30%). Choose CTO only for non-European investments or amounts exceeding the PEA ceiling (150,000 EUR).
Is life insurance still worthwhile?
Yes, especially after 8 years: the annual 4,600 EUR allowance (9,200 EUR for couples) on gains is advantageous. Euro funds secure capital, and unit-linked funds offer returns.
What return to expect from SCPIs?
Average gross return is about 4.5-5% in 2026. But after taxation (TMI + 17.2%), net return can drop to 2.5-3% depending on your bracket.
Net vs gross return: what's the difference?
Gross return is before taxes. Net deducts taxation (flat tax, social charges, TMI). Always compare in net for a realistic view of your gains.

Optimize your investments with Patrimoine360

Centralize all your investments, track their performance, and optimize your allocation.

Related simulators

Refine your strategy with these related tools