• There is more inherent flexibility in the Trust relationship than in the Corporate structure both from a policy and administrative point of view. This is because the ground rules are set within the Trust
  • Deed, and "freedom of contract" (and thus of innovation) is available.
  • Trusts enjoy a greatly enhanced degree of privacy and autonomy from that accorded to individuals, corporate or other entities, which are subject to a registration or filing regime, or the Will/Probate process. Generally speaking, in Bermuda, there are no registration or filing requirements (or indeed any other bureaucratic procedures) for trusts. Quite the reverse is true worldwide of the more structured and rigid entities and processes.
  • Security - A trust established inter vivos is recognised during a settlor's lifetime, and is less prone to attack than a will.
  • Mobility. Trusts are capable of being re-domiciled from one jurisdiction to another with no formalities involving officialdom and no need for advertising or any other form of publicity.
  • Diversification. Investment products in other major jurisdictions may readily be acquired by a trust where, for example, personal holding is unacceptable for tax reasons or is too "public".

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought for your specific circumstances.