The possibility of asset and wealth management has been a hotcake for business investors globally.
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Asset and wealth management in Hong Kong is no longer complicated for foreign businesses and high-net-worth individuals. By incorporating a trust or a private limited company, they can enjoy enhanced, perpetual protection for their hard-earned wealth and assets. All you need to do is partner with a seasoned professional or a service provider like BSW to help you form these structures seamlessly.
Asset and Wealth Management in Hong Kong via Trust
A trust is a robust legal structure, supported by the Trust Law (Amendment) Ordinance in 2013. The said ordinance has enhanced its appeal to global investors and businesses seeking streamlined protection and control over their assets. Depending on your needs, you can choose among the following options.
Trust Type
Description
Discretionary Trust
Trustee decides which beneficiaries receive assets, how much, and when.
Fixed Trust
Beneficiaries and their entitlements are clearly defined and fixed in the trust deed.
Living Trust (Inter Vivos)
Created and takes effect during the settlor's lifetime.
Testamentary Trust (Will Trust)
Created in a Will and only takes effect after the settlor's death.
Irrevocable Trust
Cannot be changed or terminated by the settlor once established.
Revocable Trust
The settlor retains the power to amend or terminate the trust.
Family Trust
A private trust is used to preserve and manage wealth for family members across generations.
Charitable Trust
Established for purposes recognized as charitable under Hong Kong law.
Unit Trust
A collective investment scheme where investors hold units representing a share of the fund.
Perks offered by a Hong Kong Trust for Wealth & Asset Management
Here are some merits of establishing a trust in Hong Kong:
Reserved Powers
The Settlor (a foreigner) enjoys enhanced control over the trust’s assets and can take investment decisions without invalidating the trust. This flexibility allows the trustor to retain sufficient control over trust affairs, ensuring seamless asset and wealth management in Hong Kong.
No Forced Heirship
The Hong Kong trust does not recognize the forced heirship rules for local assets, such as real estate properties in Hong Kong. A trust deed can dictate how and when the assets will be allocated, giving the trustor significant control.
Perpetual Trusts
Hong Kong has overcome the rule against perpetuity for non-charitable trusts, making trusts suitable for long-term generational wealth planning.
Privacy
Trusts in Hong Kong keep the identity of the settlor, beneficiaries, and assets confidential. It is noteworthy that the a trust in Hong Kong overrides the probate process after the demise of the settlor. A probate is a legal proceeding that requires the Will to be filed with the court. Doing so will automatically make the record public. However, that is not the case with the trust.
No Taxes on Global Investment
Hong Kong trusts make global investment easy and tax-free, unless they do not qualify as a "Financial Institution" (specifically an "Investment Entity") under the CRS rules.
Asset & Wealth Management in Hong Kong via a Private Limited Company
A private limited company is a popular structure for foreign businesses seeking streamlined asset and wealth management. However, you must remember the following points before incorporating such a company.
Foreign-sourced income may be exempt from corporate tax, but this is now conditional on meeting specific economic substance requirements in Hong Kong under the Foreign-sourced Income Exemption (FSIE) regime.
Income arising from intellectual properties can be subject to taxes if the “Nexus Requirement” is met. In taxation, the term “Nexus Requirement” refers to the required link or connection a company must showcase between its income and commercial activities pursued in a specific location to unlock tax exemptions.
The minimum capital of HK$1.00 is mandatory for company formation.
At least one director, one shareholder, and one company secretary (CS) are required for incorporation. The director and the shareholders can be of any nationality and status (i,e, individual or corporate).
However, that is not the case with the CS. The company secretary must be a resident or a Hong Kong-registered corporate body (holding a TCSP license).
Having a physical address (without a PO box number) is another crucial condition you must meet to qualify for company registration.
Getting in touch with a certified agent or a seasoned service provider is a smart way to proceed with Hong Kong company formation. It will help you overcome regulatory hurdles, leading to a seamless business setup.
How Do You Get Started with the Asset and Wealth Management in Hong Kong?
It’s simple- all you need to do is complete the two-step process given below:
Step 1: Enquire with BSW
Head to the BSW website and share your concern via Chatbot, WhatsApp, or Email.
Step 2: One-to-One Consultation
Our expert will contact you as soon as they review your query. The consultation will be comprehensive, guiding you through every detail, including legalities, costs, and benefits.
Why Choose Business Setup Worldwide (BSW)?
Business Setup Worldwide has a long-standing reputation as a trusted partner specializing in offshore company formation and compliance. We handle everything from picking the right structure to addressing administrative requirements, making the company formation process seamless and hassle-free.
With 7000+ satisfied customers, BSW offers entrepreneurs a robust portfolio of services to simplify the business journey. Whether you want to streamline your business income or protect assets from creditors, BSW’s trust formation service is all you need. Contact us now to begin your offshore journey seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best structure for asset management in Hong Kong?
Foreigners usually choose a trust or a private limited company. Both offer strong asset protection and tax-efficient management.
Is wealth management in Hong Kong suitable for HNIs?
Yes, Hong Kong offers strong privacy, flexible trusts, and long-term wealth planning, making it ideal for high-net-worth individuals.
Can foreigners complete Hong Kong business registration easily?
Yes. Hong Kong allows 100% foreign ownership, requiring only one director, one shareholder, and a local company secretary.
Are foreign-sourced profits tax-exempt for Hong Kong asset management companies?
Foreign-sourced income may be tax-exempt under the FSIE regime, provided the company meets economic substance requirements.
How does BSW help in the asset management setup in Hong Kong?
BSW manages everything from structure selection to registration and compliance, ensuring a smooth, fast setup for foreigners.