Liechtenstein
«We develop solutions for our clients that go beyond purely national approaches and open up new options for succession and wealth planning.»
Synergies between legal systems – creating options
Incorporating Liechtenstein structures can significantly expand the options available for asset structuring, asset protection, business disposals and succession planning. PCS has particular expertise in combining the instruments of Liechtenstein foundation and company law with the German tax and legal framework to create a coherent overall structure.
Cross-border arrangements between Germany and Liechtenstein are often initially associated with additional tax and legal hurdles. However, it is precisely the interplay between the two legal systems that can give rise to structuring options which would remain untapped in a purely domestic arrangement. A core strength of PCS lies in identifying this potential in specific individual cases, structuring it in a tax-efficient manner and implementing it legally.
Liechtenstein foundations and corporate structures can be specifically utilised as part of a broader transfer or transaction structure. In the context of succession planning, they can open up additional opportunities for tax-optimised asset transfers and the long-term consolidation of assets. Prior to a business sale, they can help to coordinate the transaction structure and the future use of the proceeds from the sale at an early stage. In terms of asset protection, they enable structures that safeguard the asset base in the long term whilst preserving future options for action.
The opportunities Liechtenstein offers in a specific case depend on the existing asset and corporate structure, as well as the asset owner’s personal and financial objectives. PCS uses this information to develop a bespoke cross-border structure, coordinates the necessary transfer and restructuring steps, and oversees their implementation in collaboration with specialist Liechtenstein partners and the client’s existing advisers.
