McKinsey Faces €65 Million Seizure in French Tax Fraud Investigation

Belgian authorities have seized approximately €65 million from global consulting firm McKinsey & Co. as part of an ongoing French investigation into suspected tax fraud and money laundering, according to prosecutors.

Details of the Seizure

The seizure of €65.2 million ($76 million) was executed by the Brussels' Prosecutor’s Office following a request for assistance from France's National Financial Prosecutor’s Office (PNF), both agencies confirmed on Friday. French authorities stated that the seized amount represents 96% of the total estimated tax loss in the case.

This development marks a significant escalation in a long-running probe that places the consulting giant's financial practices in France under intense scrutiny.

Background of the Investigation

The French investigation was formally opened in March 2022. It originated from a French Senate inquiry that examined the growing influence of private consulting firms on public policy and raised questions about McKinsey's tax arrangements in the country.

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As part of the probe, French authorities searched McKinsey's Paris offices in May 2022. According to the PNF, investigators have questioned numerous witnesses and suspects throughout 2025 and 2026.

McKinsey's Response

McKinsey has maintained that it is cooperating with French authorities and has denied any wrongdoing. The firm has consistently stated that it adheres to all applicable tax laws.

"We reaffirm that we are committed to complying with our tax obligations in France and in every country that we operate in," the company said in a statement. "We remain fully focused on serving our clients in France and continue to do so to the highest professional standards."