Trusts and private foundations have become essential tools for clients seeking to optimise international income, capital gains, and estate tax planning, offering flexible structures that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each family
At Meridien International, we provide expert guidance on establishing trusts and private foundations—two of the most effective legal structures for asset protection, estate planning, and long-term wealth management. Both vehicles offer tailored solutions for individuals, families, and businesses seeking to preserve and manage assets securely, while addressing succession, tax optimisation, and philanthropic goals.
What is a Trust?
A trust is a legal arrangement where the settlor transfers assets to a trustee, who holds and manages them for the benefit of designated beneficiaries according to the terms set out in the trust deed. This separation between legal ownership (held by the trustee) and beneficial ownership (held by the beneficiaries) provides flexibility, confidentiality, and protection from creditors, probate, and forced heirship laws.
Trusts are widely used by high-net-worth individuals and families for:
- Protecting wealth across generations
- Facilitating succession and business continuity
- Managing cross-border tax and residency issues
- Safeguarding vulnerable family members
- Holding diverse assets such as real estate, shares, investment portfolios, and intellectual property
What is a Private Foundation?
A private foundation is an independent legal entity established to hold and manage assets for specific purposes defined by its founder. Unlike trusts, private foundations have their own legal personality, governed by a council or board under a charter and statutes.
Particularly prevalent in civil law jurisdictions, private foundations are often preferred where trusts may lack legal recognition or certainty. They offer robust asset protection, governance control, and can serve both private wealth preservation and philanthropic objectives.
Private foundations are commonly chosen for:
- Long-term family succession planning
- Separating ownership and control of family businesses
- Institutionalising charitable activities
- Providing legal certainty in jurisdictions where trusts are less established
Assets Held in Trusts and Foundations
Both trusts and private foundations can hold a wide range of assets, including:
- Cash and bank accounts
- Equity shares in public and private companies
- Real estate and investment properties
- Investment portfolios and bonds
- Intellectual property rights such as patents and trademarks
- Luxury assets like art collections and yachts
- Life insurance policies
This flexibility allows for centralised management and consolidation of family or business wealth under a single, compliant structure.
Why Choose Meridien International?
- Deep legal expertise combined with practical experience in trusts and private foundations
- Tailored advice to select the most suitable structure for your unique wealth planning needs
- Comprehensive support in drafting bespoke trust deeds, foundation charters, and governance documents
- Guidance on compliance with relevant laws and regulations across multiple jurisdictions
- Assistance with ongoing administration to ensure your structure remains effective and compliant
- Solutions designed to protect your assets, facilitate seamless succession, and support philanthropic goals
- Commitment to safeguarding your legacy while aligning with your personal and financial objectives
We create bespoke trusts and private foundations tailored to your unique needs, designed to safeguard your wealth, facilitate seamless succession, and ensure lasting protection for you and future generations.
