Singapore Corporates 101

Across conversations with service providers, advisers, and fund managers, a number of common views are emerging: many family offices are no longer defined solely by preserving wealth. Instead, they are becoming more active investors, adopting increasingly sophisticated structures and, in some cases, aligning more closely with institutional investment practices.

As AML/CFT frameworks continue to evolve, including through the development of the EU’s new AML/CFT package and the establishment of the Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA), financial services firms are expected to demonstrate that their compliance arrangements are appropriately designed, risk-based, and effective in practice.

One of the most effective and versatile solutions available for international wealth planning is the Cyprus International Trust (CIT). Combining a robust legal framework, strong asset protection features, confidentiality, and professional administration, Cyprus has established itself as a well-established jurisdiction for international trust structures.

A U.S. blocker is an intermediary corporate vehicle used in fund structures to manage specific U.S. tax exposures for certain investor groups. It is commonly used by non-U.S. investors and U.S. tax-exempt investors investing into U.S. strategies through partnership-style funds.