Every country has it’s good and bad.
I chose Canada because it’s a less violent society, a socialist society, where the economy is still pretty free and at this point in time, more personal freedom.
You can’t beat the US, when it comes to starting/running a business, but Canada(ontario) is close. I’ve hired and fired a staff this year. I used Ceridian to do the payroll and handle all the government stuff, just like my US company does. There is a lower social security tax and overtime rules that are more favorable to the employer than in the US.
As many have said before, taxes are high (though Alberta is probably lower taxes than CA, NY, IL, MA, etc.), the health system is best for the healthy and very sick, but often bad for those in pain/distress without a life threatening condition.
I’m pretty confident that when it comes to running a business and keeping your wealth in a wealthy country, the rankings look something like this:
1. US
2. Canada
3. Australia
4. Japan
4. UK
5. Germany
Anyone have anything to add about business/taxes/freedom in other western countries? Is my list right or wrong?
BTW – if we can get away from the “My country is better than yours” stuff, this is an interesting discussion. Especially with so many people wondering if they should leave US for business purposes.