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I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H
Certainty and security Malta, a civil law country within the European Union, has created a unique ‘best of both’ vehicle to be able to offer the same benefits of the Anglo-Saxon trust in the context of a more familiar legal terrain for people from other civil law countries. The Maltese Trust and Trustees Act of 2005 brought this streamlined and simplified trust regime into force and the Malta Trust now offers greater flexibility, high standards of certainty and a closely regulated environment for the set-up of the trust. A key feature of the Malta trust is the option to choose to be governed by the laws or be adjudged by the judiciary of another jurisdiction. Malta’s competitive set-up and management costs are proving attractive to both corporate entities and high net worth individuals. The sector is served by over 100 companies now licensed to offer trust and trustee services in Malta, and the island has a strong contingent of multilingual, skilled professionals who are available to provide comprehensive administration and back office services, as well as a STEP branch that was formed in 2006. Flexible, effective and familiar...a Malta trust offers both certainty and security.
more information on:
www.financemalta.org
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FinanceMalta - Garrison Chapel, Castille Place, Valletta VLT1063 - Malta | info@financemalta.org | tel. +356 2122 4525 | fax. +356 2144 9212 FinanceMalta is the public-private initiative set up to promote Malta’s International Financial Centre
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Finance Industry Representative FinanceMalta FinanceMalta, a non-profit public private initiative, was formally set up on the 21st May 2007 with the scope of promoting Malta’s international financial centre, both within, as well as outside, its shores. It brings together, and harnesses, the resources of the industry and government, to ensure that Malta maintains a modern and effective legal, regulatory and fiscal framework in which the financial services sector can continue to grow and prosper. The founding associations are: the Malta Funds Industry Association, the College of Stockbrokers, the Malta Bankers’ Association, the Malta Insurance Association, the Association of Insurance Brokers, and the Institute of Financial Services Practitioners. These associations, together with the Malta Insurance Management Association which is also affiliated with FinanceMalta, represent the financial services industry in Malta.
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FinanceMalta, Garrison Chapel, Castille Place, Valletta VLT1063 - Malta Tel: +356 2122 4525 • Fax: +356 2144 9212 General Mail: info@financemalta.org • Website: www.financemalta.org Find us on: FinanceMalta
@FinanceMalta
FinanceMalta
FinanceMaltaYT
Finance Industry Regulator Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) is the single licensing and supervisory authority for all financial services activity. The Authority is an autonomous public institution set up by law. The sector overseen by the MFSA includes banks, investment firms, insurance companies and financial intermediaries who provide a wide range of products and services on the domestic and international markets. The regulation of the Malta Stock Exchange also falls under the responsibility of the MFSA. The MFSA is further responsible for consumer education and consumer protection in the financial services sector. It also manages Malta’s Registry of Companies.
Notabile Road, Attard BKR 3000 - Malta Tel: (+356) 2144 1155 • Fax: (+356) 2144 1188 Email: communications@mfsa.com.mt • Website: www.mfsa.com.mt
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trusts & foundations Publication Date January 2012 Publisher’s Information CountryProfiler Ltd is a specialist publisher of country information that assists corporations managing operations across national borders with trade, investment and relocation decisions. CountryProfiler is recognised by senior business executives, government representatives, institutions and global organisations as a leading provider of informative, insightful and actionable country intelligence. I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H
The information included in this publication is for information purposes only and is subject to change. With regard to the licensing of a
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business, income generation or any other legal or accounting matters, the Publisher strongly recommends that the reader seeks the advice
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of an appropriately licensed professional. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is
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contents Finance Industry Associations
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Trust & Foundation Domicile at a Glance
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International Finance Centre
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Trusts and Foundations in Malta
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A Leading Domicile for Asset Protection: Key Reasons for Malta’s Success
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Regulation & Oversight
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Trusts in Malta
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Trust Forms
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Foundations in Malta
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Setting up a Trust Business in Malta
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Taxation
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Professional Services
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Banking & Financial Services
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Real Estate
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Communications 37 HR & Recruitment
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Travel & Living
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Company Profiles: Who’s Who
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Finance Industry Associations
Malta Bankers’ Association (MBA) Chairman: Joaquim F. Silva Pinto 48/2 Birkirkara Road, Attard ATD 1210 Tel: (356) 2141 2210 / 2141 0572 Fax: (356) 2142 4580 E-mail: info@maltabankers.org Website: www.maltabankers.org
Malta Funds Industry Association (MFIA) Chairman: Kenneth Farrugia 116 Archbishop Street, Valletta VLT 1444 Tel: (356) 2597 5100 Fax: (356) 2597 5190 E-mail: kfarrugia.vfs@bov.com Website: www.mfia.org.mt
Malta Insurance Association (MIA) President: Matthew von Brockdorff 43A/2 St. Paul’s Buildings, West Street, Valletta VLT 1532 Tel: (356) 2123 2640 Fax: (356) 2124 8388 E-mail: mia@maltainsurance.org Website: www.maltainsurance.org
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Malta Insurance Management Association (MIMA) Chairman: John Tortell c/o 171, Old Bakery Street, Valletta VLT 1455 Tel: (356) 2123 5406 Fax: (356) 2123 5407 E-mail: mbianchi@jmganado.com Website: www.mima-malta.com
The Institute of Financial Services Practitioners (IFSP) President: Andrew Manduca P.O Box 37, Valletta VLT 1000 Tel: (356) 2569 6352 Fax: (356) 2144 9212 E-mail: info@ifsp.org.mt Website: www.ifsp.org.mt
Association of Insurance Brokers (AIB) Chairman: Sean Agius c/o 171/176 Old Bakery Street, Valletta VLT 1455 E-mail: info@aibmalta.com Website: www.aibmalta.com
Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) Malta Branch Chairman: Malcolm Becker P.O. Box 68, Birkirkara BKR 01 Tel: (356) 21 378 828 Fax: (356) 21 378 383 E-mail: malcolm.becker@bentleyreid.com.mt Website: www.step.org/branches/europe/malta.aspx
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Trust & Foundation Domicile at a Glance
Country Official Name: Republic of Malta Capital: Valletta Location: Southern Europe Population: 416,046 (2010) Time: 1 hour ahead of GMT Languages: English (official), Maltese (official)
All figures are quoted as at 30th June 2011 unless otherwise indicated.
Population: 416,046 (2010)
Time: 1 hour ahead of GMT
Currency: Euro
Banks: 25
7 Economy
Finance Centre
Total GDP (EUR) 2010: 6.2 billion
Contribution to GDP: 12 per cent
GDP per Capita (EUR) 2010: 14,982
Employs: 8,900 people directly
GDP Growth in real terms 2010: 3.7%
Banks: 25
GDP Composition by sector: Agriculture 2%, Industry 23%, Services 75%
Bank Assets: 50 billion euro Investment Funds: 519
Unemployment: 6.6% (September 2011) Net Asset Value of Funds: 7.8 billion euro Inflation rate: 2.7% (September 2011) Fund Managers: approximately 70 Sovereign Rating: A/A -1 (Standard & Poor’s 2010), A+ (Fitch, 2011)
Insurance Vehicles: 52
Accounting Standard: IFRS
Insurance Managers: 15
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Corporate Tax: 35%. However, through Malta’s full imputation system, shareholders can claim a tax credit for the tax paid by the company. Double Taxation Treaties: 60 Regulator: Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), www.mfsa.com.mt
Trust Sector Trust Legislation: Trusts and Trustees Act Foundation Legislation: Second Schedule to the Maltese Civil Code (Chapter 16 of the Laws of Malta) Trust and Fiduciary Companies: 121 (September 2011) of which 13 are Foundation Administrators
12% Trust & Fiduciary Companies: 121
60 Double Taxation Treaties
Contribution to GDP: 12 per cent
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International Finance Centre Malta, a small island state at the heart of the Mediterranean, has quietly emerged as one of Europe’s most stable and innovative finance domiciles. Just a decade ago, the country was best known as a holiday destination. Malta’s decisions to join the European Union in 2004 and the eurozone in 2008 have proved pivotal to its development as a major finance and business centre. Today, Malta has strong banking, insurance, fund and wealth management sectors that have attracted investment from the world’s leading financial institutions, blue-chip multinationals and high-net-worth individuals.
12 1 1 3 TH
ST
ST
12th soundest banking system and 15th position in Financial Market Development
1st in both Online Sophistication and Full Online Availability
1st in the timely implementation of EU Internal Market rules into national law
(World Economic Forum’s
(eGovernment Benchmarking
(Internal Market Scoreboard, European
Global Competitiveness
Report, European Commission,
Commission, December 2010)
Report 2011 – 2012, 142
December 2010)
countries reviewed)
RD
3rd place for overall quality of life and 1st place for best climate (International Living 2011, 192 countries reviewed)
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Country
An English-speaking nation With a history stretching back thousands of years, Malta is the European Union’s smallest member state. However, the country’s size is no barrier and Malta has positioned itself as a hub for international business. ➜
Depth and breath. As a small nation, flexibility, innovation, competitiveness and adaptability have been elements of Malta’s development since the country began to fend for itself after independence from Britain in 1964. In the past years, Malta has attracted record volumes of new business to its shores. Financial services have been identified as a key priority area for economic growth.
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Easy communication. Inherited from the British, English is to this day joint official language with Maltese, and is universally spoken and written. It is the language of legislation, education and business.
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Central base. Malta’s capital city, Valletta, built by the Knights of St John in the 1500s, is the main business centre and the administrative heart of the country.
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Full parliamentary support. Malta’s government has a probusiness attitude and is committed to further assist the finance sector to grow and encourage foreign investors to establish operations in Malta.
International Rankings
Knowledge Economy
One of Europe’s top performers In recent years, Malta has been ranked among the strongest EU economies in terms of GDP growth. Services underpin the Maltese economy, accounting for 75 per cent of GDP, while industry accounts for 23 per cent and agriculture for just 2 per cent. ➜
A holistic vision. Malta is establishing itself as the number one knowledge-based economy in the Mediterranean region. ICT, life sciences, education and financial services are only some of the areas the country’s government is targeting and which have successfully reshaped the country’s economic landscape in recent years.
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Last in, first out. The country’s economy was one of the least affected by the recent financial crisis and experienced one of the shortest recession periods in the EU.
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Recording growth. After the economy contracted in 2009, Malta was able to post GDP growth of 3.7 per cent in 2010 and the country registered the fourth lowest unemployment rate at 6.3 per cent in the EU as well as the fastest increase in employment growth in 2010.
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Aiming for more. The development of the finance sector is part of long-term economic plans to increase its contribution to GDP from the current 12 per cent to 25 per cent by 2015.
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Finance Centre
A fully-fledged domicile Malta’s resilience in the face of financial turmoil, economic recession and debt crisis has strengthened its position as a global financial services centre. Former niche industries have become pillars of the country’s economy. ➜
Growing wealth management location. The availability of a wide range of investment vehicles, among them also trusts and foundations, has made Malta a natural hub for wealth management and family offices in the region.
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Setting an example. The country’s banking system now consists of Maltese and international banks and is one of the soundest in the world, with Bank of Valletta featuring among the top 15 most resilient banks in the 2011 EU stress test.
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Prepared for cross-border interaction. The country’s fund industry is booming as more and more fund managers recognise the island’s potential to serve as a springboard into Europe. The Net Asset Value of funds administered in Malta has increased by 700 per cent from 2004.
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International expansion. From 2004, the insurance sector grew from 8 insurance companies servicing the local market to more than 50 insurance companies with business in other countries.
GOZO
Competitiveness
A credible challenger Malta regularly receives high rankings in benchmarking reports. In 2011, the European Commission viewed the competitiveness of Malta’s economy in terms of labour productivity as above average in an EUwide comparison, while the country has retained its ranking in the Global Competitiveness Report 2011-2012, placing 51st of 142 countries. ➜
Tier 1 reputation. As an EU and eurozone member, Malta offers a regulatory framework that is fully harmonised with EU and OECD rules, yet offers a sophisticated and flexible platform for the financial services industry.
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High performance. While global finance centres around the world struggled, Malta’s finance sector not only withstood the effects of the recent economic and financial downturn but posted year-on-year growth. In 2010 alone, the financial services industry expanded by 30 per cent. Financial intermediation contributed 7.5 per cent to the total gross value added in 2010, up from 4.2 per cent in 2007.
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Low risk environment. Malta is a European Union member and has a long-established and strong democratic tradition. Economic policies are liberal and the country is committed to an open business environment.
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Quick start up time. A company can be incorporated in a couple of days, while Malta’s regulator, the MFSA, has set timeframes for the approval of licence applications for financial services such as for investment funds or insurance vehicles, with the options of fasttrack applications for certain vehicles and service providers.
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A region of opportunities
Malta offers a highly efficient fiscal regime which avoids the double taxation of companies and their shareholders. Maltese companies are taxed at a rate of 35 per cent, but a full imputation system applies to the taxation of dividends. This entitles shareholders to a tax refund of 6/7ths on trading income and 5/7ths in the case of passive interest and royalties. The refund is reduced to 2/3rds where the distributing company claims double taxation relief. With respect to a participating holding (where a company holds directly at least 10 per cent of the equity shares of a non-resident company, or meets certain other criteria) a full refund applies. Malta’s tax system has been deemed by the European Commission to be compliant with EU non-discrimination principles and has also gained approval from the OECD.
Situated within two to three hours direct flight time from Europe’s major cities, EU membership and with it, the subsequent introduction of passporting rights, has accelerated growth in all sectors of Malta’s finance centre.
Market Access
Malta Tax System
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Wide range of market places. Malta offers instant access to an internal market of over 500 million people encompassing the 27 EU economies.
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Good relationships. Malta has excellent relationships with its neighbouring Mediterranean countries and due to its geographic location, Malta is also an ideal stepping stone to the emerging markets of North Africa and the Middle East.
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Post-crisis order. In a changing regulatory landscape with tighter requirements, Malta offers a safe EU location with a firm but flexible regulatory framework.
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Follow the sun. Malta lies in a convenient time zone for doing business across the world: one hour ahead of GMT, meaning office hours coincide with Asia in the morning, Europe throughout the day and the US in the afternoon.
Infrastructure
A platform for business Substantial investments in infrastructure and telecoms networks have created a highly sophisticated business environment. ➜
Cutting-edge systems. Malta has overcome its geographical limitations by building up a state-of-the-art telecoms infrastructure. International connectivity is ensured by two satellite stations and four submarine fibre-optic links to mainland Europe.
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Growing industry cluster. Malta’s finance industry is today made up of about 600 regulated entities, up from 180 at the end of 2004. In addition, around 11,500 other non-regulated entities operate in Malta and service international clients, offering legal and other support services.
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Connected Marketplace. Malta’s excellent air and sea infrastructure and long-standing trade links with major ports in Europe, North Africa and Asia provide for a network of worldwide connections.
Located in the centre of the Mediterranean, two to three hours flight time from most European centres, the Maltese government and the industry are committed to putting Malta on the map as the foremost centre for international financial services in the Euro-Med region.
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Affordable office space. Office space can be found all over Malta and rents are reasonable.
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Flexible regulatory framework and regulator The country’s legislation is in line with EU law and built on best practices from other finance centres. It caters for the regulation of investment funds, banking and insurance business, as well as investment service providers and trustees. ➜
Efficient regulator. All financial services fall under one regulator, the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). Companies benefit from streamlined procedures, reduced bureaucracy and lower regulatory fees.
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Working in partnership. The regulatory framework is recognised as serious, while one of Malta’s most appreciated advantages is the flexibility and accessibility of the MFSA, which establishes constructive working relationships with companies investing in Malta.
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Tailored approach. The level of regulation depends in many areas on the experience and knowledge of the market player and the specific set-up.
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The right tools. The possibility of re-domiciling companies into and out of Malta provides the option of preserving the continuity of a company’s legacy, reputation and financial track-record.
Lifestyle
The highest standards of living at the heart of the Mediterranean Lying at the centre of the Mediterranean Sea, between Europe and North Africa, Malta offers a refreshing change from other chaotic and high-cost finance centres. ➜
Sun and sea. As a small Mediterranean island, Malta offers unrivalled, easy access to beautiful beaches where the sea and the sun can be enjoyed in equal measure.
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So much more. The island boasts a diverse range of shopping, cultural and leisure activities in addition to well-equipped public and private hospitals and clinics. Malta’s educational system is excellent, and all personal needs – from private banking to tax planning - are catered for.
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Relaxed atmosphere. Malta is renowned for its well-balanced work life rhythm. The country’s small size – it takes just 45 minutes to cross Malta – reduces commuting time and increases leisure time. With a very low crime rate, the country is also a safe place to live for families.
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Exclusive living. The property market features a variety of top-of-the-range homes, including apartments, town houses and villas, as well as excellent office space at reasonable rents.
trusts & foundations
Cost-competitive environment
➜ Banking
Costs and tax are two of the key drivers behind today’s business decisions. When compared to mainland Europe, Malta offers significant cost-advantages as a finance centre, making it a competitive alternative.
➜ Trusts ➜ Foundations ➜ Investment Funds ➜ International Pensions
Taxation & Fees
➜ Insurance
➜ Asset Management
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Efficient tax planning. Investors have the possibility to benefit from one of the lowest effective tax rates in Europe. While companies pay 35 per cent tax, a refund payable to shareholders reduces the effective tax rate significantly under certain conditions. This tax system has been approved by the OECD and the EU.
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Facilitating business. Companies in Malta can also benefit from the country’s extensive network of double taxation treaties as well as from a number of business promotional incentives.
➜ Wealth Management ➜ Family Offices
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Incentives for highly-qualified professionals. Malta has introduced a special 15 per cent tax rate for highly-qualified employees who fulfil certain criteria.
➜ Holding & Trading Companies
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➜ Financial institutions ➜ Maritime & Aviation
The bottom line. Legal and accounting fees are lower than in most other European jurisdictions, as are other operational costs and salaries which are about 50 per cent of those prevailing in the more established centres.
➜ Capital Markets ➜ Expat Residency ➜ Islamic Finance
Pool of support
Advice & Assistance
Diversified International Finance Centre
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Malta’s workforce is multilingual and highly educated. Employment in the financial intermediation sector has increased by more than 60 per cent during the period 2004 to 2009. 8,900 people are now employed by the sector. ➜
Established service providers. Malta’s professional services’ firms have been at the forefront of the finance centre’s growth. At the same time many consultants and advisors have also gained experience overseas.
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International excellence. Employees and service companies are quick, efficient and have developed expertise in niche areas such as captive insurance, funds, trusts and wealth management. 60 per cent of Maltese students continue to third-level education.
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Part of global networks. Most of the country’s law firms are affiliated to international networks and many lawyers have post-graduate degrees in finance, and together with the big four accountancy firms, as well as many other accountancy and auditing practices, service international clients.
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Multilingual services. Ingrained with a British influenced work ethic, most Maltese speak at least three languages - Maltese, English and Italian. Many also have knowledge of another language, usually French or German.
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Trusts and Foundations in Malta The number of authorised trustees is increasing yearby-year. Among the companies offering their services in Malta one finds not only many of the leading firms of the sector, but also a large number of smaller firms, local and foreign, that assist with the establishment and administration of trusts and foundations in Malta. Ongoing market volatility is a constant reminder of how important it is to protect or enhance the value of assets. From tax to succession planning, from the holding of company shares to gifting property to children, Malta trusts and foundations are the ideal financial instrument for those seeking solutions to their wealth management requirements. With more than 120 Maltese and international fiduciary companies licenced to offer trust and trustee services on the island, including organisations such as Maitland Group and Bentley Trust, this is a growing segment of the financial services offered by Malta, and one that is expected to continue expanding rapidly.
Authorised trustees Authorisations in terms of the Trusts and Trustees Act (Trustees / Fiduciary Service Providers / Administrators of Private Foundations)
Why Malta: Trusts and Foundations ➜ One of the few civil law jurisdictions that has developed its own domestic trust law; ➜ Recognition of trusts set up under foreign laws; ➜ Offering the set-up of domestic trusts and foundations;
140
➜ Legislation published in English;
120
➜ EU and eurozone location; 100 ➜ Competitive fiscal environment; 80
98
108
118
121
60 40
➜ High professional standards with many accountants, bankers, lawyers and investment advisors holding overseas qualifications and having overseas experience; ➜ Fast-track authorisation for trustees licensed in other (approved) jurisdictions;
20 0 Total authorisations at end 2008
Total authorisations at end 2009
Total authorisations at end 2010
Total authorisations September 2011
Source: Malta Financial Services Authority
➜ English-speaking country with a pro-business government.
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Who is here already? Companies authorised to act as a Trustee or to provide Fiduciary Services in terms of the Trusts and Trustees Act ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜
3a Fiduciary Services Limited Ab Initio Limited Abacus Holdings Limited Alliance Trust Company Limited (formerly F and A Services Limited) Alpha Business Limited Amicorp Malta Limited Antelope Trustees Limited Areti Fiduciary Services Ltd Aver Trustees Malta Limited AVMT (Trustees) Limited Baltimore Fiduciary Services Limited Bank of Valletta plc BCGL Services Limited BDO Consult Limited Bentley Trust (Malta) Limited Blevins Franks Gamma Limited Blevins Franks Trustees Limited BSI Trust Corporation (Malta) Limited BT International Limited CAC Fiduciary Limited Camco Holdings Limited Cavalier Trust Services Limited Chartered Trust Limited Citibank International Limited Claris Trustees and Fiduciaries Limited Classic Services Limited Corporate Services Limited CREDALTRUST Management Ltd. Credence Holdings Limited CRV International Limited CSB Trustees and Fiduciaries Limited Custom House Global Fund Services Limited D. G. Fiduciary Ltd. Deloitte and Touche Limited DF Corporate Services Limited DNT Fiduciary Limited Dominion Fiduciary Services (Malta) Limited Elise Trustees Limited EMCS International Services Limited EMD Trust Services Limited (formerly LCI Services Ltd) Equinox International Ltd. Exalco Financial and Trust Services Limited
➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜
➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜
F and F Trust Services Limited FACT Services Limited Fenlex Holdings and Services Ltd. Fenmed Corporate Services Limited FFC Trust Services Limited Fides Fiduciary Limited Fiducia Trustees Limited Fiduciaire Limited Fiduciary Trust Limited FINAC Limited Finaserv Consultancy Ltd. Finco Control Company Limited FJV Fiduciary Limited FPC Wealth Management Limited (Formerly A.A.A.A. International Corporate Fiduciary Limited) FZD Trust & Fiduciary Services Limited Ganado Trustees and Fiduciaries Limited Globserv International Ltd GM Corporate and Fiduciary Services Ltd GMA Holdings Ltd Grant Thornton Fiduciaire Ltd GSB Fiduciaries Limited GSN Limited GVM Holdings Limited H.G. and G. Trustees and Fiduciaries Limited Heritage Corporate Services (Malta) HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. Hull Services Limited Integrated-Capabilities Limited International Trust Ltd. Intershore Fiduciary Services Limited J P Morgan Trustee and Depositary Company Limited Jyske Bank (Gibraltar) Management Limited Knights Fiduciaries Ltd L and TD Fiduciaries Limited La Vallette Fiduciaire Limited Maitland Malta Limited Mamo and Mercieca Limited Mamo, Pace and Associates Limited Manduca Randon and Co. Ltd. Mdina Trust Services Limited Medfinco Ltd. Mercury Management Limited MGI Fiduciary Services Limited Mifra Consultants Limited Moore Stephens Fiduciary Limited MSD Holding Limited
➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜
MSS International Services Limited N Trust Limited Notabile Fiduciaries Limited Osiris Trust Limited PCL International Holdings Ltd. Peralta Custodian Limited PKF Fiduciaries International Ltd. Primei Fiduciary Limited Profitrust Services Limited QUBE Holdings Limited R.V. Services Limited Rank Professional Services Limited RBG Fiduciary Services Limited Safehaven Internatinal Limited Salt Partners (Services) Limited Savona Holdings Limited SB Fiduciary Limited Sovereign Trust (Malta) Limited STM Malta Trust and Company Management Limited Summa Fiduciary Services Ltd TCV Management and Trust Services Ltd. Tri-Mer Services Limited Unifin Services Limited Venture Services Limited Vicaro Services Limited Vistra (Malta) Limited W&D Fiduciary Services Ltd
Administrators of Private Foundations under Article 43(12) b of the Trusts and Trustees Act ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜
Amicorp Malta Limited Dr Bertrand Sciriha Dr Christian Farrugia Dr David Mallia Dr Tonio Fenech Elise Trustees Limited Ganado Trustees and Fiduciaries Limited Guido Mizzi PCL International Holdings Ltd. Peter J. Griffiths Qube Holdings Limited STM Malta Trust and Company Management Limited Trident Trust Company (Malta) Limited
Source: Malta Financial Services Authority, September 2011
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A leading domicile for asset protection:
key reasons for
Malta is one of the few jurisdictions that cater for both trusts and foundations. While trusts are peculiar to systems of law based on common law and are not generally found in civil law countries, Malta, a civil law country, is an exception to this rule. Malta trusts and foundations benefit from One jurisdiction, two solutions a number of advantages when compared to other trust jurisdictions and the Skilfully combining all the features of the Anglo-Saxon trust concept within a civil law framework, the Malta trust is an effective and country’s lower set-up and management reliable vehicle that provides both certainty and security. The Malta trust offers a useful and practical vehicle that gives settlors the costs are proving attractive to both peace of mind that comes with a highly-regulated, EU environment, while remaining faithful to the original concept of a trust. With corporate entities and high-net-worthlegislation in place to regulate the setting up of foundations, through which founders are able to maintain a level of control on individuals from across the world looking the direction of the estate, Malta offers an additional instrument for wealth management, tax and succession planning. While there are for ideal vehicles for financial planning in a number of similarities between trusts and foundations, there are also substantial distinctions. With both concepts firmly established, a reputable, EU-based financial centre. Malta is ideally placed to answer the most diverse of needs.
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Malta’s success Offering protection and security
Value for money
Offering a high level of protection and regulation, the advantages of locating a trust or a foundation in Malta are numerous. They include Malta’s specific legislation that creates a highly-regulated environment offering a high degree of assurance. In Malta trustees and foundation administrators have to be authorised by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), and are highlyregulated, with audits taking place at least once a year. More than 120 companies are currently authorised to provide these services. With its service-driven culture, the MFSA has gained a reputation as effective and responsive regulator of the industry.
Familiar tools and systems
EU location of high repute
Malta, as a civil law country, offers a more familiar legal terrain to people from other civil law countries, which include all mainland European countries. While the Maltese trust is based on the Anglo-Saxon concept of trusts and incorporates all the features and flexibility of such a structure, in Malta a trust is also given legal recognition in relation to other areas of the law and is created with sufficient legal powers to be able to manage conflicts between the two systems of law, without invalidating the trust. This is achieved through some mandatory rules which are at the basis of a civil law system prevailing on the terms of trust. A relatively new concept for Malta, foundations provide an alternative structure to the trust institute and have proved a popular vehicle with the island’s continental clientele. An interesting aspect of Malta’s legislation is also that it allows for the conversion of a trust into a foundation and vice versa, a facility which adds even further flexibility to financial management undertaken in Malta.
similar qualities
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Malta offers another key attraction to people choosing a jurisdiction to set up a trust or a foundation: significantly lower set up and administrative costs. On average, setting up a trust in Switzerland will cost a minimum of 5,000 euro; in Malta the cost of setting up a fully-fledged trust is around 1,500 euro. Professional fees in Malta, including trust management fees, legal fees and audit fees, are also significantly lower than other jurisdictions, while the country’s professional service providers enjoy an excellent reputation internationally.
Malta offers a highly-regulated, well-respected, sophisticated EU environment and the country is fast becoming the wealth management jurisdiction of choice for people from across the world. Historically, trusts or foundations have been seen as instruments designed to maintain discretion and have been associated with tax avoidance structures. A Malta trust or foundation offers security, assurance and flexibility in an EU regulated environment, while maintaining the principle of confidentiality that settlors expect. Internationally, the island’s reputation as a location to establish and manage private and commercial trusts is growing significantly as the demand for secure solutions to wealth management issues increases.
specific characteristics
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Full control of assets Malta’s legislation also caters for the establishment of private or purpose foundations, which continental Europeans generally prefer to trusts because they allow the founder to continue to maintain a level of control on the direction of the estate. Unlike trusts, foundations have a legal personality and the foundation itself becomes the legal owner of the foundation estate. Based on Maltese company law principles and Italian and French civil law provisions, Maltese foundations require the appointment of administrators, who are responsible for the administration of the foundation’s assets, and these are regulated under the Trusts and Trustees Act.
Variety of tax planning options Following legislative changes in summer 2010, a foundation is treated as a company for tax purposes. This means a foundation is subject to the normal corporate rate of tax and can benefit from Malta’s full imputation system. Beneficiaries of the foundation may be entitled to claim the applicable tax refunds. Foundations may also opt to be taxed in the same manner as a trust, which gives rise to very beneficial private asset planning opportunities. Where the founder is not resident and not domiciled in Malta and the assets settled into the foundation are situated outside Malta, upon the settlement of assets in a foundation, no tax or duty will be payable in Malta.
Customised trust set-ups While trusts have been recognised in Malta since the 1980s, a key instrument in the attraction of wealth management activities to Malta is the Maltese Trust and Trustees Act which introduced domestic trusts and came into force in January 2005. This has helped to transform Malta into a major trust jurisdiction. The Act created a streamlined and simplified trust regime, and made Malta much more attractive to international clients by offering greater flexibility and high standards of certainty. The legal framework surrounding Malta trusts allows for the creation of customised solutions for each individual trust set-up.
Free choice of trust law Malta does not offer ‘off-the-shelf’ trusts: each trust is structured carefully to reflect the requirements of the settlor, to ensure a set-up which is both flexible and responsive to any changes. This includes the option to have the trust governed by the laws of a country other than Malta. Indeed, while a European may be happy to have his trust governed by Malta, a civil law country, somebody from Australia, for example, might prefer to have his trust governed by a common law country, such as the United Kingdom. Maltese law permits the trust to choose to be governed by the laws of another jurisdiction provided this is specified in the trust deed.
19 An instrument for business The trust law identifies a number of commercial scenarios within which the use of trusts would attract more favourable treatment. These include security trusts, unit trusts or collective investment schemes and securitisation, amongst others. One of the great attractions of the trust for the transaction planner designing a business deal is the convenience of being able to absorb into the ground rules for the business deal those fundamental principles of fiduciary law that protect trust beneficiaries of all sorts. These attractions have made the trust a reputable alternative to other devices, such as contract and incorporation, whenever the relationship to be established is too delicate or too novel.
Exempt from taxation Malta’s advantageous taxation regime makes it particularly attractive to use trusts. Though the actual impact of taxation on trusts depends on a number of issues, including the type of assets and the status of residence of the beneficiaries, where the beneficiaries under a trust are non-resident and the income of the trust does not arise in Malta, there is no taxation in Malta. Any income accruing to the trust is not subject to tax.
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Differences between Malta Trusts and Foundations Trusts
Foundations
Do not have a separate legal personality
Have a separate legal personality
Defined in terms of relationship
Defined in terms of the assets making up the foundation
Trustee is the legal owner of the assets
Foundation is the legal owner of its own assets
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Regulation & Oversight Malta’s legislation on trusts and foundations has developed over the past decades. Today the framework gives a high degree of responsibility to the licensed trustees and foundation administrators in order to ensure that trusts and foundations under their administration are compliant with the law. Legal Framework
away from the offshore regime, in 1994, Malta ratified the Hague Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Trusts. A special law, the Recognition of Trusts Act, 1994, was enacted to implement the convention in Maltese law. From then onwards, Maltese Courts were able to recognise the validity and enforceability of trusts governed by a foreign law and to give effect to their terms even if the settlor of the trust was a Maltese resident. This has led to trusts being used in Malta freely, although it was not possible to use Maltese law as the law governing the trust. To change this, the drafting of a new trust law began in the early 2000s. The Trusts and Trustees Act was enacted in 2004 and came into force in 2005. ➜ It allows Maltese or foreign settlors to establish trusts governed either by Maltese law or by a foreign law. ➜ With this law, Malta also eliminated ‘nominees’ from its legal system thus abiding by its international commitments to the OECD and FATF and effectively introduced trusts into the Civil Law of Malta.
The Maltese legal system boasts a unique blend of common law and civil law ingredients, clearly illustrated by the presence of both trusts and foundations.
With practicioners having more than 30 years of experience, Maltese trust practice and the law on trusts continue to evolve.
➜ The setting up of trusts in Malta is regulated by the Trusts and Trustees Act. The Act provides for the creation of trusts and authorisation and supervision of trustees by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). The Act incorporates within its provisions the Hague Convention on the Law Applicable to Trusts and on their Recognition, which Malta has ratified.
The Development of Trust Legislation at a Glance
➜ While foundations have been recognised and regulated in Malta for almost 200 years through Maltese case law and doctrinal writings, in 2007 Malta enacted specific legislation to clearly define their legal framework. The law regulating foundations is today found in Act XIII of 2007 which introduced the Second Schedule to the Civil Code (Chapter 16 of the Laws of Malta).
Offshore Trusts Act Introduced in 1988 • Settlor and beneficiary/ies had to be non-resident • Act was modelled on Jersey Trust Law
Trust law Malta’s law is essentially a civil law system with a civil code based on Roman law and the Napoleonic Code. However, as a result of 150 years as a British Colony, Malta’s legal system is supplemented by the incorporation of English common law, especially in commercial law. Trusts, originally an institute of common law, have been recognised in Malta since the late 1980s. In 1988, the Maltese Parliament adopted an Offshore Trusts Act, which introduced the trust concept in a ‘ring-fenced’ manner to non-residents and was based on the Jersey model. To move
Recognition of Trusts Act 1994
Transition from offshore to onshore
Trusts and Trustees Act 2004
Introduced domestic trusts into Maltese legislation
Applied the Hague Convention on the Law Applicable to Trusts and on their Recognition.
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strong Maltese trust law
Foreign trusts Whether a trust is governed by a foreign law or by Maltese law is a question of choice. Settlors can also rest assured that foreign trusts will be fully recognised in Malta. Malta does not only recognise trusts created voluntarily and evidenced in writing, as required under the Hague Convention, but also recognises any other trust of property arising under the law of another country, meaning that even constructive or resulting trusts arising under foreign law will be recognised and enforced in Malta. Likewise, foreigners wishing to settle property in trust may opt to use Maltese law or a foreign law for their trusts. In these cases it is the law of the settlor’s domicile which should apply to succession and other patrimonial issues and not Maltese law – even if Maltese law is chosen as the proper law of the trust. The Maltese rules of reserved portion and ‘forced heirship’, whereby the assets of a deceased person must be divided as prescribed by law, will therefore only apply if the settlor was domiciled in Malta at the time of his/her death. When Maltese law is governing a trust, the Civil Code and the Trusts and Trustees Act will govern the trust. However, if a Maltese law trust is set up but has no connection to Malta because of the domicile of the settlor, or the location of immovable property, the trust will be governed exclusively by the Trusts and Trustees Act.
Law on Foundations Maltese Foundations are regulated by the Second schedule of the Civil Code (Chapter 16 of the Laws of Malta), which dedicates an entire sub-title to foundations. The law on foundations adopts principles from the Maltese Companies Act, although it is largely based on Italian and French civil code provisions. It was introduced on the 1st of April, 2008. It is possible to set up both a private and a purpose foundation in Malta. The setting up of a foundation entails the registration of the deed of foundation with local authorities such as the Office for the Registrar of Legal Persons. The foundation gains its separate legal personality through this registration. As foundation administrators have fiduciary obligations towards the beneficiaries, they too require licensing in terms of the Trusts and Trustees Act.
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variety of options
The MFSA invites potential trustees seeking an authorisation to operate in Malta to meet with the regulator to ensure that both the interests of the business and compliance with all regulatory standards are met (see ‘Setting up a Trust Business’). The following persons can act as a trustee in Malta. ➜ Persons may carry on the activities as trustees either in a professional or in a private capacity. ➜ A professional trustee may be either an individual resident or operating in Malta, or a corporate trustee, either registered in Malta or operating in Malta. ➜ An individual may act as a private trustee if he is either related to the settlor, by consanguinity or affinity in the direct line up to any degree or in the collateral line up to the fourth degree, or he has known the settlor for at least 10 years. In both cases, a private trustee cannot be remunerated, cannot hold himself out as a trustee to the public and cannot act habitually as trustee (meaning that he cannot act as trustee to more than five settlors at any time). ➜ Private trustees do not need to be authorised by the MFSA, whereas professional trustees, resident or operating in Malta, are required to obtain authorisation, irrespective of the proper law of the trusts they hold and whether or not all or part of the trust property is in Malta. ➜ A foreign person having a licence or authorisation to act as trustee in an approved jurisdiction can benefit from a fast-track application. They are not required to submit a full application but will only need to follow a notification procedure with the MFSA.
The MFSA at a Glance ➜ Single regulator for all financial services ➜ Rigorous but fast, dynamic and flexible ➜ Protecting Malta’s reputation. Focused on quality and integrity of industry players ➜ Supervision is risk-based
Authorisation and supervision of trustees The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), is the single regulator for all financial services in Malta and as such is responsible for the authorisation and supervision of trustees and foundation administrators. The regulator is generally described as being open to the needs of the business community but also firm in its approach to the regulation of the industry.
➜ Licensing procedure is personalised ➜ Regulation is business sensitive ➜ Regulator is approachable and meetings can easily be arranged
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Trusts in Malta Malta introduced a special law that allows for the set-up of Maltese trusts. The procedure for establishing a trust in Malta is relatively easy. The security of the assets and confidentiality are the two main criteria. A trust under Maltese law is a legal agreement between two parties: the settlor and the trustee. The settlor places assets under the control of the trustee for the benefit of a beneficiary/ies or for a particular purpose. The assets could include bank accounts, real estate, stocks and bonds, furniture or art. As a result, a trust is seen as an efficient tool for estate planning as it is more flexible than a will and can be used to ensure that family wealth is secured and protected.
Creation of a Trust SETTLOR
Transfer of trust property to
TRUSTEE/S
Holds on trust for
BENEFICIARIES
Key Features of a Trust Means of establishment: A trust may be created unilaterally or bilaterally, by oral declaration or in writing. A unit trust must always be created in writing. The Settlor: The settlor is the person who sets up the trust. The settlor must be of age, have full capacity to contract and a free disposition of the assets settled on trust. While imposing fiduciary obligations upon the trustee in favour of the beneficiaries, trusts do not leave the settlor with any rights in relation to the trust property - except as specifically provided for in the Trusts and Trustees Act. The Trusts and Trustees Act lists the settlor’s rights (which may be supplemented by the trust deed) as follows: ➜ The settlor has the power to seek court directives as to trust validity; ➜ The settlor has the right to a variation of terms and revocable trusts where the trust deed so provides; ➜ In cases of trust termination, interest lapses or no existing or possible beneficiary, the trustee holds the trust property for the settlor (or his or her heirs) absolutely; and ➜ It is the trustee’s duty to provide the settlor with information, subject to the terms of the trust deed.
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The Protector: The protector is typically a person who enjoys the settlor’s trust (e.g. the family lawyer). The protector may also act as investment advisor. Subject to the trust terms, the protector typically has the power to: ➜ Appoint new and/or additional trustees; ➜ Remove trustees; and ➜ Require trustees to obtain the protector’s discretion (including approval) in relation to particular matters e.g. purchase / sale of trust property. The Beneficiary:
The beneficiary is the person who may benefit from the assets of the trust. All beneficiaries have to be mentioned by name or are ascertainable by class or by relationship to a person alive or dead. For instance, children not yet born or conceived may be beneficiaries. The rights of the beneficiary are personal and are regarded as movable property. Subject to the trust deed, the beneficiary may sell, charge or deal with his or her interest in any manner, provided that this is done in writing.
The beneficiary has the right to information from the trustee and may seek court directives regarding the validity of the trust. The beneficiary may also disclaim his or her interest or part thereof.
Trust Deed:
The trust deed is the instrument whereby the trust is created and includes the terms of the trust and may also be in the form of a unilateral declaration of trust. For example, a trust deed may provide for the addition of new beneficiaries (e.g., for unborn children) or the exclusion of a specific benefit to certain beneficiaries under conditions clearly stated in the trust deed.
Letter of Wishes:
The settlor can guide the trustee in a separate letter of wishes on how the trustee should exercise his discretion. Depending on the relationship between the settlor and the beneficiaries, the settlor can inform the beneficiaries of this letter, however, he/she may also choose not to disclose this letter to the beneficiaries.
Legal Form:
A trust is a form of legal institute which does not have its own legal personality. Trusts are not registered anywhere and there are no formalities for the annual maintenance of trusts other than statutory obligations that are imposed on trustees in the administration of trusts (e.g. for example the duty to prepare accounts).
Set-up time:
There are no statutory restrictions that could delay the setting up of a trust in Malta. Therefore, the time required depends on the particular circumstances and mainly relates to the drafting of the trust deed.
Termination:
A Malta trust is subject to a maximum duration of 99 years, however, it can be terminated earlier if all beneficiaries acting in unison demand termination, which the trustees must accept.
Attacking trusts:
A creditor would need to take action against the trustee. As the assets of the trust are not the personal assets of the trustee, only the trust assets are exposed. Trust assets might be subject to precautionary and executive warrants (such as garnishee orders, injunctions and warrants of seizure) which can be issued by Maltese courts.
Ensuring trustees’ performance: Professional trustees are licensed by the MFSA, which has also issued a code of conduct to provide guidance to trustees as to the standards required under the Trusts and Trustees Act and other financial services legislation, as well as to the best practice in the industry. Trustees must exercise their fiduciary duties prudently and competently and, subject to the terms of the trust and the provisions of the Trusts and Trustees Act, consider the rights of all beneficiaries when making decisions affecting the administration of the trust. If a trustee fails to administer a trust in accordance with the law and the respective trust deed, the trustee is liable for such a breach and can be sued for it.
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Trust Forms Maltese law recognises all the main types of trusts one would normally find in traditional common law jurisdictions. They can be used for a wide variety of purposes, for asset protection, for estate planning, as a commercial tool or for testamentary usage.
Discretionary Trusts Main Characteristics: Trustees normally have a choice or discretion as to how to manage and invest trust property and to whom, when and to what extent they distribute trust income and/or capital. Only after this trustee discretion has been exercised in his/her favour a beneficiary’s potential interest is changed to a right to trust property. However, the trustee must exercise his discretion within the terms of the trust. Under Maltese law, the trust deed can contain a provision allowing trustees to appoint new beneficiaries if: ➜ The person to be appointed can either be identified by name or by reference to a class of beneficiaries; and ➜ Where identification is by reference to a class, the beneficiaries of that class must be ‘reasonably individually identifiable’ (e.g. the children, born or to be born of Mr. X & Mrs. Y); and the identification must be made either in the trust instrument or in any other written instrument by the settlor, whether binding or not on the trustee. Main Advantages: A discretionary trust allows the trustee to respond to changing circumstances. This trustee flexibility is a distinct advantage of a discretionary trust. However, it is the trustee’s fiduciary duty to act in the interest of the beneficiaries. Main Uses: A settlor may leave money in trust for his children and the trustees shall decide how to distribute those funds. If one child gets married and has children of his own, there may be good reason for the trustee to decide to give that child more funds. Another example is if one of the children refuses to search for employment, it might be useful to limit the benefit to encourage the potential beneficiary to act responsibly.
Accumulation & Maintenance Trusts Main Characteristics: The trust fund creates an endowment for the beneficiaries whoever they may be. The trustee invests the trust fund to meet the specific needs identified in the trust deed. This type of trust can be a discretionary trust. Main Advantages: The performance of trustees in delegating the investment should create an expectation of required performance to meet the need identified. This trust looks to identify and cover specific needs. Main Uses: This type of trust could be used to meet specific needs of education or the total welfare of a child to adulthood. Sometimes these trusts are established by grandparents for their grandchildren.
25 Fixed Interest Trusts Main Characteristics: The beneficial interests under a fixed trust are fixed, which means that the share of the value of the trust property the beneficiary will receive is defined in the trust deed. This trust typically limits the trustee’s discretion; often the trustee would be using their administrative power to comply with the trust deed. The trust may involve a number of named beneficiaries with identifiable interest in trust property. Therefore, these trusts are often referred to as ‘interest in possession’ trusts because the beneficiary has a fixed entitlement to part of income or capital, a right that can be assessed. Main Advantages: The outcome is more certain for the settlor and the beneficiaries. However, the fixed interest trust limits flexibility and as the entitlement can be assessed as a right, it may provide a more immediate tax consequence depending on the tax laws of the jurisdictions involved. Main Uses: The settlor may have adult beneficiaries and wish to specifically divide his estate. There may be a specific requirement to provide income support on a regular basis to certain beneficiaries.
Spendthrift Trusts / Protective Trusts Main Characteristics: These trusts are created by the settlor with the specific aim of providing a level of protection of trust assets from access by beneficiaries. They usually have more than one beneficiary. A discretionary trust may be used and the trust deed may have specific wording to support the trustee in their decisions on control of spending as it would be depriving a beneficiary of a right to income or capital. Main Advantages: It provides a structure to limit a benefit to beneficiaries. It also protects assets against creditors of a beneficiary/ies which could be to the detriment of other beneficiaries. Due to this protective advantage such a trust can also be described as an asset protection trust. Main Uses: Spendthrift trusts are used if beneficiaries are considered to be spendthrift and there is concern that assets would be eliminated unwisely. They can also be used to limit access to assets if a beneficiary has an identified abuse issue.
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Charitable trusts Main Characteristics: This definition has a wide interpretation and can cover a number of types of trusts. Generally, these trusts are for a specific charitable purpose, for a specific charity or for a specific public benefit. Trustees may have greater freedom to act or not act. The trust might be registered for the charitable purpose which provides an element of public enforcement. These trusts are the only trusts that can last for more than 100 years. Main Advantages: This type of trust may provide certain tax advantages, especially if the charity has a recognisable charity status. Setting up a charitable trust is potentially one of the best methods of providing a legacy for the benefit of a charitable purpose during a person’s lifetime or after death. Main Uses: These trusts generally fall into four categories: relief of poverty; promotion of education; promotion of religion; or the promotion of animal and/ or another welfare purpose for the benefit of the public.
Unit Trusts Main Characteristics: Unit trusts are a popular investment vehicle. They are used for the creation of pension schemes, employee benefit plans and collective investment funds. They are usually open-ended investment schemes. The participant or unit holders in a unit trust have property rights that can be enforced against the fund manager of the schemes or the unit trustees. There is no special provision in Maltese law covering unit trusts, which are therefore treated in the same way as ordinary Maltese trusts. Main Advantages: Unit holders may prefer this type of ownership right since the property is held by a trustee and not by a company. Main Uses: Nearly any type of pooling of investors in an investment project could be established as a unit trust. Other commercial transactions to hold property can also be constructed as a unit trust. These can involve complex commercial arrangements for insurance, pensions, complex exporting and financing.
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Foundations in Malta Previously regulated by customary law, a special law on foundations was introduced in 2008. While a foundation adopts corporate principles, the law is mainly based on Italian and French civil code provisions. Maltese legislation allows for the set-up of two types of foundations: private and purpose foundations, which have particular uses and benefits for certain clients.
Private Foundations: These are set up for the benefit of a named person or class of persons called beneficiaries. The foundation’s patrimony is owned by the foundation itself (due to its separate legal personality) and is administered by designated persons (known as ‘administrators’) for the benefit of such beneficiaries. Purpose Foundations: Such foundations have no ascertained or ascertainable beneficiaries but are established exclusively: ➜ For any charitable, philanthropic or other social purpose; ➜ As a non-profit making organisation; ➜ For any other lawful purpose (not necessarily a social purpose and can be a private purpose).
Creation of a Foundation Drafting of the foundation deed
Registration of the deed with the Office of the Registrar of Legal Persons
A new legal person is created which is distinct from its founders and administrators
Key Features of Foundations Means of Establishment: A foundation can only be constituted in writing, either by a public deed or by a will. The foundation deed must be registered with the Office of the Registrar of Legal Persons. Assets: The assets of a foundation may originate from any lawful business or activity and may consist of present or future assets of any nature. The minimum endowment of money or property to set up a foundation must be worth at least 1,165 euro (and 233 euro for a foundation established exclusively for a social purpose or as non-profit making). Foundation deed: The foundation deed must contain the following information: ➜ The name of the foundation, which name must include in it the word ‘foundation’; ➜ The registered address in Malta; ➜ The purposes or objects of the foundation; ➜ The constitutive assets with which the foundation is formed; ➜ The composition of the board of administrators, and if not yet appointed, the method of their appointment; ➜ The legal representation (a local representative is necessary, if the administrators of the foundation are non-Maltese resident); and ➜ The term for which it is established. ➜ In the case of a private foundation, the deed of foundation must contain the names of the beneficiaries, or in the absence of such indication, a declaration that the foundation is constituted for the benefit of the beneficiaries. In the latter case, the beneficiaries must be indicated in a separate written instrument, which must be signed by the founder and addressed to the administrators. In order to protect confidentiality, the beneficiary statement need not be filed, in its stead a note of reference referring only to the founder is filed with the Registrar of legal person. Legal Form: Once the foundation is established and the deed is filed, a new legal person is created and the foundation itself becomes the owner of the foundation property. Termination: Except when foundations are used as collective investment vehicles or in securitisation transactions or in the case of purpose foundations (which may be established for an unlimited term), foundations are valid for a maximum term of 100 years from their establishment.
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Founder: Rights of the founder: • The founder may exercise supervision over administration of the foundation, obtain copy of accounts, inventory and descriptive notes of property; • He/she may intervene in court proceedings concerning the appointment of administrators or the disposal of assets.
Conditions for the founder: • The founder may also be an administrator; • The founder may be a beneficiary during his lifetime, but cannot then act as sole administrator of the foundation.
Administrator: Duties of the administrator: • The administrators (whether natural or legal persons) are responsible for maintaining possession and control of the property of the foundation, safeguarding such property and ensuring compliance with the statute of the foundation and the law; • They are bound by fiduciary obligations stipulated in the Civil Code. Any fiduciary who breaches such obligations shall be bound to return any property, together with all other benefits derived by him, whether directly or indirectly, to the person to whom the duty is owed. Conditions for the administrator: • The administrator can be based outside Malta; however, a person resident in Malta must be appointed to act as the local representative of the foundation in this case; • The administrator may be the founder; however, in such situation, the founder cannot be the sole administrator. Supervisory Protector:
The deed can provide for a supervisory council, or the office of protector. They usually exercise supervision over the acts of the administrators, and may be vested with powers of appointment or removal of administrators.
Main Advantages: • Assets and liabilities are held by a legal person separate from the founders or the administrators. Thus, any potential debt and other liability that a foundation might have can only be enforced upon its patrimony and not beyond, except to the extent that the promoters and members expressly agree to be so liable or as expressly provided by law; • They may be taxed as companies with the same potential benefits such as an effective 5 per cent or nil tax rate; or they can opt to be taxed as a trust, in which case they will be tax neutral in Malta as regards non-residents; • Foundations can be converted into trusts and vice versa. The requirement of registration of a foundation reduces the possibility of it being declared as a sham; • Although a foundation needs to be registered, only a minimum of information in relation to a private foundation is available to the public, therefore confidentiality is guaranteed; • A foundation would hold title to its assets; • A foundation may have more than one founder and the founder(s) may be an individual or a legal person; • Protectors and a supervisory council can be appointed, and thus, independent persons can be appointed to supervise the acts of the administrators; • Beneficiaries can be individual, legal persons or even other foundations; • Maltese law also allows the creation of segregated cells, which segregate assets and liabilities from other assets and liabilities, within a foundation. Main Uses: • •
Foundations are used for similar purposes as trusts. Common uses include: tax and estate planning, asset protection planning or assistance to charities. Foundations are prohibited to trade. However, a foundation may be endowed with commercial property or a shareholding in a company or other asset which gives rise to income, as long as the foundation is only the passive owner of such assets.
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Setting up a Trust Business in Malta Malta is successfully competing with other more traditional trust centres. The country has made a name for itself as a reputable jurisdiction, in which trustees must meet stringent ‘fit and proper’ criteria prior to obtaining a licence to act as trustee for the benefit of the industry in Malta and individuals setting up a trust or a foundation.
Licensing The Trusts and Trustees Act provides a framework for professional and private trustees. Administrators of a private foundation established or operating in Malta for the benefit of a private interest or purpose which is not charitable also require licensing under the same Act.
Private Trustees ➜ Do not require authorisation to act as a trustee from the MFSA but are bound to follow a strict notarial procedure. A private trustee has to declare in a notarial deed that he/she fulfils the requirements for private trustees and does not need to be licensed. ➜ Must be either directly related to the settlor or must be known to the settlor for the last 10 years. ➜ Cannot be remunerated.
Professional Trustees Professional trustees, whether individual or corporate, have to be authorised to operate in Malta by the MFSA. While establishing a trust company depends upon a number of factors, the reputation and qualificatiion of the promoters is of paramount importance. Advantages of setting up a trust business in Malta: ➜ English is an official language and the workforce is multilingual; ➜ Competitive costs; ➜ Quality domestic trust law and recognition of foreign trust law; ➜ Re-domiciliation law; ➜ Tax paid by the Maltese company will be credited against the shareholder’s tax liability on receipt of a dividend.
Accessible regulator
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Re-domiciliation legislation
ideal environment for trust companies
29 Licensing conditions Potential trustees have to satisfy the following conditions:
Company ➜ Its objects must include acting as trustee and carrying on activities ancillary or incidental thereto; ➜ Its activities must be compatible and connected with trustee services; ➜ Company directors must number at least three and be approved persons; ➜ The company must have established adequate systems for maintaining proper records of the identity and residence of beneficiaries, the dealings and the assets in connection with trusts (e.g. ensuring that trust funds are kept at all times separate from those of the trustee and also that they are not co-mingled with funds from another trust) and compliance with the applicable law; ➜ Every person who has a direct or indirect interest in the company must be an approved person; ➜ The name of the company is not inconsistent with its trustee activity; ➜ Where the company is not registered in Malta, that company must be constituted or incorporated in an approved jurisdiction.
Individual ➜ Must be resident in Malta or operating in Malta; and ➜ Must be an approved person; and ➜ Must have established adequate systems for maintaining proper records of the identity and residence of beneficiaries and of the dealings and assets of trusts (e.g. ensuring that trust funds are kept at all times separately from those of the trustee and also that they are not mixed with funds from another trust) and compliance with applicable law.
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Application for authorisation The MFSA may grant a general authorisation but can also restrict the authorisation to certain activities. As a first step, applicants are encouraged to contact the Authority prior to submitting a formal application, to discuss their proposals. Applications then have to be made in writing to the MFSA on the required application form and accompanied by the application and processing fee and the following documentation: ➜ Personal questionnaires filled in by the individual or key personnel in the case of a company (e.g. qualifying shareholders, CEO, directors); ➜ Memorandum & Articles of Associations (in the case of a juridical person) or a certified ID card/passport and police conduct certificate (in the case of a natural person); ➜ Accounts; ➜ Copies of any standard trust and management agreements; ➜ Business plan; ➜ A group structure chart.
In considering an application for authorisation to act as a trustee, the MFSA may: a) Carry out any enquiries which it considers appropriate; b) Ask the applicant, or any specified representative of the applicant, to attend a meeting with the Authority to answer questions and explain any matter the Authority considers relevant to the application; c) Seek additional information from the applicant; d) Visit the applicant to view proposed premises and files regarding business that it is proposed to transfer into the licensed entity; e) Request any information furnished by the applicant to be verified in such manner as the Authority may specify; f) Take into account any other information which it considers relevant in relation to the application; and g) Verify information submitted by the applicant by reference to third parties.
Fees Trustees – Application and processing fee
€ 250
One-time licence fee
€ 100
Authorisation fee (to be paid upon the issue of the authorisation)
€ 2,500
Annual renewal authorisation fee
€ 2,500
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A person (an individual or a company) who is already authorised to act as a trustee is not required to submit another application to be able to act as an administrator of private foundations. However, the person is required to submit the following documentation to the MFSA: A covering letter notifying the MFSA of the intention to act as an administrator of private foundations; If the trustee is a corporate entity, a draft revised memorandum and articles of association empowering the authorised trustee company to act as an administrator of private foundations; An updated business plan; Three-year financial projections (depending on the scale of the business envisaged); Personal questionnaires of any individuals employed by an authorised trustee who will be involved in the day-to-day administration of private foundations and are not yet known to the Authority; In the case of those officers and employees (including directors) of an authorised trustee who are already known to the Authority and who will take part in the administration of private foundations - a declaration confirming whether there have been any changes to the information disclosed in their previously submitted forms. A new form would need to be submitted if the previously submitted personal questionnaire is more than five years old.
Fast-track Application The Trusts and Trustees Act also provides that a person licenced in terms of the Banking Act, Investment Services Act or Insurance Business Act, or a foreign person with an equivalent licence, acting as a trustee, not in the course of ordinary business for which they are licensed, must notify the MFSA of their intention to act as a trustee in Malta at least 45 days prior to commencing activities in Malta. This notification procedure also applies to a person having a licence or authorisation to act as a trustee in an approved jurisdiction (such as EU/EEA and OECD states). This allows a foreign licensed trustee to set up operations in Malta in a simplified manner.
Re-domiciliation of trust companies Under the Continuation of Companies Regulations issued under the Companies Act, 1995 it is also possible to continue a trust company from another jurisdiction to Malta without having to wind up its operations in the original country as long as the foreign trust company is established in an approved jurisdiction.
Advantages of re-domiciliation ➜ Trustee remains the same; only its country of registration will change. ➜ Trusts remain fully intact. ➜ No need to transfer trust assets. ➜ A Maltese trustee can hold property under foreign law trusts. ➜ Can possibly obtain EU-wide passporting rights. ➜ Malta’s tax imputation system entitles operating companies with foreign shareholders to a 6/7ths refund of a 35 per cent corporate tax upon dividend distribution. ➜ Income originating from overseas is not subject to double taxation, even if there is no double taxation agreement in place.
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Taxation The Maltese tax system is highly beneficial for trusts and foundations set up by non-residents, while Malta’s corporate tax regime makes the island the ideal location for trustees and other service providers to base operations. Trust Companies The Maltese tax system is the only remaining full imputation system in the EU. Maltese companies pay income tax at the rate of 35 per cent. Upon a distribution of dividends, shareholders are entitled to claim a refund of tax paid at the corporate level. The refund may be equivalent to either 2/3rds (when double taxation relief is claimed), 5/7ths (in the case of passive interest and royalties) or 6/7ths on other income. Furthermore, Maltese law provides for a full exemption on profits or gains derived from an investment which qualifies as a participating holding and which satisfies the anti-abusive provisions laid down in the law. A holding will qualify as a participating holding if the Maltese company holds at least 10 per cent of the equity shares in a nonresident company.
Double Taxation Relief Malta is a signatory to around 60 double tax treaties and the combination of Malta’s tax system and its extensive treaty network means businesses operating on the island are able to effectively minimise tax leakage to ensure maximum profitability. The Maltese tax system also includes Commonwealth relief, unilateral relief and the flat rate foreign tax credit, thereby ensuring that income arising from overseas is not subject to double taxation, even if there is no double taxation agreement in force.
Trusts Income attributable to a trust is not charged to tax in the hands of the trustee but in the hands of the beneficiary. Where at least one of the trustees of a trust is a person resident in Malta, tax shall be payable in Malta on any income attributable to a trust. However, some very important exceptions apply, the most important being the following: ➜ If all the income attributable to a trust consists of income arising outside Malta; or ➜ Is income from interests, royalties or gains on disposal of shares in companies that do not have immovable property in Malta; and ➜ All the beneficiaries are not persons ordinarily resident and domiciled in Malta or persons whose income is totally exempt from tax, then the income shall be deemed not to be income attributable to a trust and it shall be deemed to have been derived directly by the beneficiaries.
A Maltese trust may also be used in a tax efficient manner to hold shares in Maltese or non-resident companies or other entities. Trusts may also, in certain circumstances, opt to be taxed as Maltese resident companies.
Foundations A foundation may be treated as a company which is both resident and domiciled in Malta and benefit from Malta’s full imputation system, whereby the foundation would pay tax at the normal rate of 35 per cent. Distributions to the beneficiaries of a foundation are treated as dividends, on which they can claim a refund of all or part of the Malta income tax already paid by the foundation. The transfer of a beneficial interest in a foundation is treated as a transfer of a security in a company. Foundations may also opt to be taxed in the same way as a trust, in which case the relevant provisions governing the taxation of trusts will apply.
Personal Taxation Individuals are charged on their income at progressive tax rates up to a maximum rate of 35 per cent on the following basis: • A person who is ordinarily resident and domiciled in Malta is subject to tax on his worldwide income and capital gains. • A person who is resident but not domiciled in Malta is taxed on income and capital gains arising in Malta and on foreign income (but not foreign capital gains) received in Malta. • Non-resident individuals are subject to tax on income and capital gains arising in Malta. Residence will be based on where a person effectively lives and has a home. The Department of Inland Revenue will consider individuals who have spent in the aggregate more than 183 days in a tax year in Malta as residents of Malta.
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32 Double Taxation Treaties
Special Tax Treatment for HighlyQualified Professionals
Malta has an extensive network of double taxation treaties:
To attract highly-qualified personnel to the financial services industry, Malta has introduced a new tax incentive scheme in 2011 targeting well-paid foreign executives. •
Individuals having their domicile outside of Malta and who are employed in senior positions with a company that is licensed or recognised by the Malta Financial Services Authority to conduct financial business in or from Malta, can benefit from a flat personal income tax rate of 15 per cent on income up to 5 million euro.
•
Any income over 5 million euro will be tax-free.
•
To qualify for this tax incentive the employee must earn a minimum of 75,000 euro per year, amongst other criteria.
The so-called Highly-Qualified Persons Rules 2011 apply to the following executive positions, amongst others: Chief Executive Officer, Chief Risk Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operations Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Portfolio Manager, Chief Investment Officer, Senior Trader/Trader, Senior Analyst (including Structuring Professional), Actuarial Professional, Chief Underwriting Officer, Chief Insurance Technical Officer, Head of Marketing and Head of Investor Relations. EU nationals can benefit for an unlimited period from the reduced tax rate, EEA and Swiss nationals for a period of five consecutive years, while third-country nationals for four consecutive years. This period commences in the year in which the recipient is first liable to tax in Malta.
Albania
Hungary
Pakistan
Australia
Iceland
Poland
Austria
India
Portugal
Barbados
Ireland
Qatar
Belgium
Isle of Man
Romania
Bulgaria
Italy
San Marino
Canada
Jersey
Serbia
China
Jordan
Singapore
Croatia
Korea
Slovakia
Cyprus
Kuwait
Slovenia
Czech Republic
Latvia
South Africa
Denmark
Lebanon
Spain
Egypt
Libya
Sweden
Estonia
Lithuania
Switzerland*
Finland
Luxembourg
Syria
France
Malaysia
Tunisia
Georgia
Montenegro
United Arab
Germany
Morocco
Emirates
Greece
Netherlands
United Kingdom
Hong Kong
Norway
USA
Treaties signed but not in force: Bahrain, Belgium (amended treaty), Hong Kong, Switzerland (amended treaty), Uruguay, Israel
The Income Tax Bands for Individuals and Married Couples 2012
*Agreement limited to profits derived from operation
Married Rates Range First €11,900 €11,901 – 21,200 €21,201 – 28,700 Over €28,701
Tax rate Tax free 15% 25% 35%
Single Rates Tax rate First €8,500 €8,501 – 14,500 €14,501 – 19,500 Over €19,501
Tax rate Tax free 15% 25% 35%
of ships or aircraft in international traffic
KEY TREATIES: China Hong Kong India Luxembourg Singapore South Africa United Kingdom United States of America
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Professional Services Malta’s professional service providers are internationally renowned for the excellence of their service and are well positioned to offer meaningful support and strategic guidance to anyone wishing to set up a trust or a foundation in Malta. Trust and Estate Practitioners: There are around 121 licensed trust management companies in Malta, offering specialised trustee and fiduciary services and providing clients with the highest level of protection and security. Among them are international organisations such as Maitland Group, Sovereign Group and Dominion. Many legal firms in Malta also own in-house trust companies. They act as trustees and can assist in establishing a trust. More than 20 companies are also authorised to act as foundation administrators.
Top accountancy networks with a presence / correspondents in Malta
Legal services: Malta’s legal profession is long-established, and a large number of law firms operate on the island. They are regularly listed in Chambers, Legal 500, and other directories. All the leading international firms have a presence in Malta through associate links with local law firms. Many legal firms have specialised in assisting international commercial and financial operators looking at doing business with or locating operations in Malta. Most lawyers have post-graduate degrees in various practice areas, including financial services, or furthered their studies at major institutions overseas. They can assist in financial, legal and tax aspects of succession planning and estate management to ensure a problem free and tax-efficient solution is found.
Deloitte
Accountancy and audit: The international business community in Malta
RSM International
is strongly supported by a large range of legal, accounting and auditing practitioners ranging from small boutique practices to the global big four accountancy firms. There are also many consultants on the island providing business advisory and back office support and other services. Professional services costs are generally lower than in other Western European locations.
PwC Ernst & Young KPMG BDO International
Grant Thornton Baker Tilly International PKF International Moore Stephens International Nexia International HLB International
specialised legal expertise
+
high accountancy standards
complete services
UHY International ECOVIS International
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Banking & Financial Services Malta has started to attract attention as a secure location to manage wealth and assets. The country’s banks are well capitalised and follow a conservative approach based on sound fundamental banking principles. International Banking Centre With five retail banks and more than 20 international commercial and trade banks already operating in or from Malta, this sector has become one of the most robust on the island. The island’s banks are able to provide a full range of personal, commercial and trade services to clients. HSBC and Bank of Valletta are the leading retail banks on the island. Smaller banks such as APS, Lombard, Volksbank and Banif Bank help to keep the banking sector competitive and innovative, while Malta is also home to specialists in trade finance such as FIMBank and BAWAG.
Custodian Banking While many trustees prefer to work with custodians in other jurisdictions as part of their risk-management strategy, a number of banks have acquired custodial licences in Malta. HSBC, one of the world’s largest global custodians, is present on the island, while many other banks provide custodial services through international partners. Malta is keen to increase the number of custodians, however, apart from HSBC, Bank of Valletta, Mediterranean Bank, Sparkasse Bank Malta, Deutsche Bank and Custom House already hold a custody licence in Malta. In addition to the banks, a number of investment management companies provide services to the industry and have strong relationships with international custodians.
25 banks
6
custodians
120 investment services firms
The Concept of Trust Accounts While trusts are generally seen as an instrument used only by high-net-worth individuals, a Maltese trust account offers the possibility of enjoying certain trust related benefits on a bank account. A trust account is a deposit account based on the concept of a trust. The account is opened in the name of the bank which is responsible to hold the funds for the benefit of the named beneficiary. The advantages of the trust account include: the fact that it is not frozen in the event of a death and does not form part of succession proceedings; it offers an element of asset protection from creditors; it ensures confidentiality; and, for non-resident beneficiaries, it is tax exempt. A trust account can be set up with a minimum deposit that is different for each bank, but ranges from 5,000 to 12,000 euro. The concept has gained considerable momentum and while it was initially deployed by the country’s two leading banks BOV and HSBC for the local market, the concept is now being exported by HSBC to non-traditional trust markets where the local banking officers can offer the product to their customer base and have the trust account administered from Malta by HSBC.
Investment Advisors With approximately 120 investment services firms licensed in Malta, individuals or corporations seeking assistance in the management of their assets are spoilt for choice. It is advisable that trustees refrain from providing investment advice, however, should a settlor request such assistance, the trust deed should allow for the appointment of an investment advisor, who would be responsible for providing investment recommendations, which the trustees will have the responsibility for implementing.
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Real Estate Malta offers a wide range of commercial and residential property for rent or outright purchase. One of the advantages of Malta’s small size is that commuting time between Malta International Airport and an office is rarely greater than 20 minutes, and journeys are seldom longer than 40 minutes. Commercial Property Given Malta’s small geographic area, there are few restrictions on where a business setting up in Malta can choose to establish its operations. In effect, the final choice will depend upon preferences and relative cost related to the quality and suitability of the property concerned.
Type of office space Office space is available in purposebuilt office blocks, in converted houses, flats or within some of the new, large mixed-use developments. Malta offers enviable locations with sea views and marinas as well as prestigious landmark office complexes within easy commuting distance of residential areas.
Rental costs Overall, rentals are around two-thirds to half of those charged for comparable commercial spaces in continental Europe. At the top end of the market, commercial space in prestige developments comes in at around 300 – 420 euro per square metre a year. Mid-market, smart office blocks in the central areas of Sliema, Gzira and Ta’ Xbiex are around 60 – 120 euro per square metre a year.
Locations Valletta: Malta’s capital city is the administrative centre of the island. The Malta Stock Exchange and the Central Bank of Malta are in Valletta. Office space is usually offered in prestigious townhouses or centuryold palazzos. A number of offices have also been opened at the Valletta waterfront.
Sliema/St. Julian’s: Sliema and St. Julian’s are located on the peninsula to the north of Valletta. Office space is available in smart blocks, with sea views or without. The Portomaso Business Tower in St. Julian’s is one of the prime corporate addresses in Malta. Other areas/types: Office space is available practically all over the island. A number of business centres also offer ready-to-move into offices. They usually include fully equipped offices that are available on demand with flexible terms, meeting rooms and a receptionist service.
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Residential Property In the past few years, Malta has become one of the most sought after locations in Europe for foreign nationals seeking to purchase homes as an investment or for relocation purposes. A wide range of residential property can be found in Malta, ranging from apartments, penthouses, townhouses to villas, with or without a pool. Developments in recent years include marina and coastal complexes at the top-end of the market. The rental market is steady and the property market looks positive for the future, making investing in property an interesting opportunity. Gozo’s property tends to appeal to the holiday rental or second home market and is dominated by rustic style farmhouses and modern apartments.
Buying property in Malta Purchasing real estate in Malta is a straightforward process consisting of the following steps: Promise of sale: Once a property has been chosen and price and conditions have been agreed, a promise of sale agreement is signed between the vendor and purchaser. At this point an amount equivalent to 1 per cent stamp duty as well as a 10 per cent deposit on the total purchasing price are paid by the buyer. This deposit
will be forfeited in favour of the vendor should the purchaser fail to complete the final deed of transfer for no valid reason at law. The agreement is usually valid for three months or as agreed by the parties. Notarial investigations: During this period, a notary will carry out the necessary research into the property to confirm good title. Final contract: Once research has established clear title to the property, the final contract of sale may be entered into. The deed of sale being drawn by the notary will be registered in the Public Registry. The balance of the purchase price and a further 4 per cent stamp duty on the sale is to be paid on the publication of the contract. High net-worth individuals can also benefit from a 15 per cent flat tax rate on foreign income if purchasing property of a certain value upon fulfilling certain conditions.
Renting Property in Malta A written lease agreement usually sets out the general terms and conditions governing the rentals such as a description of the property, the payment of rent, the warranty of all necessary permits by the landlord, where applicable, the provision of any security or damage deposit/s and the renewal of the lease period upon expiration.
37 Communications
Service Providers: GO, Melita Cable and Vodafone are the three main telecoms service providers, while Malta hosts more than 200 IT companies. International connectivity & bandwidth: Malta is internationally connected through two satellite stations (one to the Atlantic Ocean region and the other to the Indian Ocean region) and four submarine fibre-optic links to mainland Europe, two of which are operated by GO and the others by Vodafone and Melita respectively. All operators say their cables are designed to carry a lot more traffic than current levels and their capacity is unlimited.
Malta’s telecoms network is reliable, stable and secure. As the infrastructure has opened up to market forces, access rates have increased and tariffs have lowered.
Leading Europe With 100 per cent of public services for citizens and enterprises accessible via the internet or mobile phone, the country is a leader in Europe, and has been ranked first in the EU’s 2010 eGovernment Benchmarking Report, which measures public sector performance in the deployment of eGovernment in 32 countries. In 2009, the country was also listed as one of the ‘Smart21’ communities around the world by the ‘Intelligent Community Forum’, an internationally renowned think tank.
Data centres: Data centres are operated by the telecoms operators with their own fibre-optic cables but also by other telecoms companies, allowing companies to choose between a range of service providers.
International Recognition
ICT RankingS
Malta’s ICT industry is a versatile and mature cluster and includes international giants such as Tecom and Microsoft. Tecom of Dubai has chosen Malta as the location in which to build a European ICT and media city on the models developed in Dubai. The first building of SmartCity Malta was inaugurated in October 2010. Once completed in 2021, SmartCity Malta is projected to be a self-sustained township. Already by the end of 2012, a Microsoft innovation centre focused on cloud computing is expected to be operational.
➜ Government prioritisation of ICT
3
➜ Importance of ICT to government's vision of the future
4
➜ Impact of ICT on access to basic services
9
➜ High-tech exports
2
➜ Telephone lines per 100 population
4
➜ Mobile network coverage rate
1
Call centres: The fact that English is an official language, coupled with the good language abilities of the Maltese and the country’s good telecoms infrastructure, has made Malta a hub for call centres. Among the call centres already set up in Malta is HSBC’s international contact centre. Phone: Mobile telephony operators provide wireless Internet connections based on GPRS technology, and Voice Over Internet Protocol Services (VOIP), enabling companies to make substantial cost savings on telecommunication expenses.
Postal services: Postal services are provided by Maltapost Plc. Delivery is efficient and reliable with a three-day service to most mainland European cities. All the main international courier services are represented on the islands.
10
Source: The Global Information Technology Report 2010 – 2011, World Economic Forum
Unlimited bandwith
+
trusts & foundations
Key Facts:
Cross-border transactions and set-ups require cutting-edge telecoms and IT systems. Malta has seen huge public and private sector investment in ICT over the past 15 years and today the country boasts a truly modern infrastructure.
➜ Secure internet servers
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innovative solutions
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HR & Recruitment
What employers need to know
Service providers choosing to set up operations in Malta benefit from low labour costs. A university with an excellent reputation and a number of other training institutes prepare people for a career in financial services, making it easy to find the right people for trust administration business.
Probation: The length of the
Diligent, highly educated and multilingual, the Maltese workforce is the country’s greatest strength and most valuable asset. The key reasons are: ➜
Multilingual. Maltese speak at least three languages, Maltese, English Educated. Some 60 per cent of students (18-24 year olds) continue in education to third level in some 85 or more institutes.
➜
Skilled. Malta’s workforce possesses the skills the financial services industry requires. While many financial services professionals in Malta were educated or gained professional experience in the UK, the University of Malta also offers degree courses in financial services and provides a fresh stream of graduates every year. Staff working across all sectors of the industry are also trained at the Malta College of Arts and Technology (MCAST), the Institute of Financial Services Practitioners and the Malta International Training Centre, an educational centre that was specifically established to support the financial services industry through the provision of technical training. Various courses are offered annually to train both students and staff on fund administration, valuation, accounting, portfolio management, and fund incorporation.
➜
Value for Money. Labour costs in Malta are half to a third of those in other Western European jurisdictions.
Weekly working time: The weekly working time is 40 hours per week.
Leave: Employees in full-time employment are entitled to 24 days of vacation leave per year. Maternity leave for female employees in full-time employment is 16 weeks (18 weeks as from 1st January 2013). The law also provides for up to three months unpaid parental leave in the case of birth, adoption or legal custody of a minor.
Social security:
and Italian, in addition to another language, usually French or German. ➜
probation period is normally six months unless otherwise agreed by both parties.
Average Salaries (in €) CEO
86,876.67
CFO
78,603.40
Financial Controller
48,512.06
Management Accountant
40,321.38
Qualified Accountant
33,716.32
Account Administration
22,010.42
Senior Compliance Manager
39,139.95
Compliance Manager
29,592.18
Compliance Administrator
22,750.00
Trust Supervisor
21,996.75
Trust Administrator
18,075.25
Source: Castille Resources, Salary Survey 2011
Employers pay social security contribution at a rate of 10 per cent of the basic wage paid to their employees, subject to a minimum of 15.35 euro per week and a maximum of 35.39 euro per week. Employees pay another 10 per cent of basic wages, subject to the same minimum and maximum. Taxation: Income tax is charged at progressive tax rates up to a maximum rate of 35 per cent. An employer is obliged to deduct, each month, taxes from his employees’ salaries.
Attracting Foreign Talent The islands’ incredible climate and comfortable lifestyle also make it easy to attract foreigners to take up positions in Malta’s finance industry. The tax treatment of financial service professionals under the highly-qualified persons scheme (see Taxation) is another incentive for professionals to relocate to Malta. Malta’s laws on immigration are in line with the European Union’s visa obligations for foreign nationals. While EU and EEA citizens are free to work and reside in Malta, non-EU nationals must apply for and obtain an Employment Permit, and the granting of the application is subject to a labour market test.
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Travel & Living Malta’s balmy weather and sparkling blue seas make for a business environment that is second to none: compact but cosmopolitan, sophisticated but stress-free. In today’s rushed world, Malta offers the perfect balance between work and relaxation. Long sunny days and beautiful surroundings provide for an enviable outdoor lifestyle, and with its short distances, you can wave goodbye to long commuting hours and enjoy the friendly company of a growing expat community.
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Globally connected
Best climate in the world
It just takes two to three hours flying time from most European cities to reach Malta International Airport (MIA), the islands’ only airport. Regular flights are provided by Air Malta, Malta’s national airline, as well as other airlines such as Lufthansa, Emirates, Air France, Aerosvit, Alitalia, Austrian Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines, Ryanair, Easyjet and Spanair.
Malta enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine during the year. The magazine ‘International Living’ has rated the country’s climate the best in the world. Summers are dry and warm and winters are mild with daytime temperatures usually above 12 degrees. Even in winter Malta enjoys an average of 5 to 6 hours of sunshine and more than 12 hours a day in summer.
Five-star luxury International hotel chains such as Hilton, Radisson, Corinthia and Intercontinental are present in Malta. Superior accommodation is also offered at the Palace Hotel, the Phoenicia Hotel, the Westin Dragonara Resort or the five-star boutique hotel Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux. The main tourist centres are Sliema and St. Julian’s as well as Bugibba and Qawra.
Flavours of the Mediterranean There are many restaurants in which to enjoy a pleasant Mediterranean evening: from smart city restaurants in Baroque palaces to familyrun trattoria-style places or seafront fish restaurants, the choice is wide. Bacchus Restaurant in Mdina and Barracuda Restaurant in St. Julian’s are two of Malta’s best establishments.
Living heritage With 7,000 years of history and many remains visible to this day, Malta has been described as an open-air museum. Megalithic temples, medieval towns and massive bastions have all been declared as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They regularly provide the backdrop for events listed in Malta’s packed cultural calendar such as concerts, plays or art exhibitions.
Markets and Malls Most international chains and brands have a presence in Malta. Exclusive boutiques also sell designer wear at relatively low prices. The main shopping districts are Sliema and Valletta, where one can also find shopping complexes and street markets. Shops are usually open from 9 am – 1 pm and 4 pm – 7 pm and most are closed on Sundays.
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Short distances
Value for money
Malta has a road network of 1,500 kilometres, however, it only takes 45 minutes to cross the island. The public transport system has recently been overhauled and is now operated by German-owned Arriva group. A new network of routes and a new fleet of modern buses provide a reliable and extensive service across Malta and Gozo. A train service does not exist in Malta.
The cost of living in Malta is one of the lowest in Europe, yet banking, taxation, insurance, social security, utilities and communications services are sophisticated, professional and reliable, often surpassing those offered in many European nations.
Low crime location
Malta has one of the best health services in the world. EU nationals resident in Malta are eligible to receive free medical treatment at public hospitals and clinics. The main general hospital is the stateof-the-art Mater Dei Hospital in Msida, while many towns and villages have their own medical clinics. Malta also has several private hospitals located around the island, such as the renowned St. James Hospital in Sliema.
Malta offers a stable, secure environment for families and young children. Crime is almost non-existent. Children play on the streets and there are still some areas where people leave their door unlocked at night. Foreigners find it easy to integrate with the local community. The Maltese are a sociable bunch and make every visitor feel welcome.
First class healthcare
English-speaking destination English is one of Malta’s official languages, Maltese the other. English is the main language of business while laws and regulations are published in both languages. Many Maltese are also fluent in Italian and some even speak another language, mainly German or French.
Morning news and evening shows Malta’s bilingual culture is also reflected in the media landscape and half the newspapers are published in English. Foreign newspapers can be purchased easily due to Malta’s orientation towards tourism. In addition to satellite TV, two private cable-TV providers offer most international channels and favourite programmes.
High quality education Malta provides an excellent standard of education. Children can be educated in one of the private international schools such as St Michael’s School in Pembroke or enrolled in the local state, church or independent schools. Kindergarten facilities are also available. Tertiary education is offered through the University of Malta and other institutes and private colleges.
A home in the sun There is a wide range of properties available to rent or purchase, from furnished apartments to farmhouses, villas with pools, and even palaces, all at competitive prices. A number of five-star developments have recently been built on the island, including Portomaso and Tigne Point, which offer luxury apartments
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42 Perfect spots for sports Water sports are popular in Malta. The conditions for scuba diving and snorkelling are excellent, particularly as the sea temperature never drops below 13 degrees C (55 degrees F), even in winter. Malta has one golf course, located at the Royal Malta Golf Club. Gyms, as well as football or water polo clubs can be found all over the island. Boating excursions are offered by Hera Cruises and Malta Yacht Charters Company.
Competitive income tax rates Highly-qualified financial services professionals can benefit from a flat 15 per cent tax rate on employment income up to 5 million euro instead of the maximum standard tax rate of 35 per cent. In addition, any emplyment income over 5 million euro will be tax-free. To qualify for this tax incentive the employee must earn a minimum of 75,000 euro per year, amongst other criteria.
Personal financial services As a sophisticated finance centre, Malta offers a wide range of services and insurance and investment products for the personal needs of executives and managers moving to Malta. The country’s banks operate a strong network of ATMs and branches across the islands. All major cards are accepted. Malta is also part of SEPA, the EU’s Single Euro Payments Area.
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Buzzing entertainment hub The sea, cafés, restaurants, clubs, cinemas, theatres, sports clubs or gyms are almost always within walking distance of office complexes or residential areas. There are a wide range of festivals celebrated in Malta, the biggest one being the annual Carnival. In addition, every town or village in Malta celebrates the feast of its patron saint with a big outdoor festival.
10 reasons why expats enjoy living in Malta ➜ Fabulous all-year round weather with 300 days of sunshine and a crystal clear sea. ➜ Short distances between destinations save commuting time. ➜ Friendly and hospitable local population. ➜ No communication problems with English and Maltese as official languages, while Italian is widely spoken, as well as German and French within the tourism sector. ➜ Low cost of living while all goods are easily available.
Visa-free travel in the Schengen zone Malta’s immigration laws are in line with EU policies. The country is part of the Schengen zone. EU nationals are free to work and live in Malta. Non-EU citizens can find details about visa-exempt countries and visa application procedures on the website of the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs at www.mjha.gov.mt. Third-country nationals also require work permits to work in Malta.
Powering the finance centre Energy and water supplies are stable. Though costs have been rising in recent years, tariffs are still lower than in other EU countries. The energy and water requirements are catered for by Enemalta and the Water Services Corporation respectively. Oil is so far the only type of energy used for electricity generation, while recent years have also seen a move towards alternative sources.
➜ Family-friendly country with a low crime rate. ➜ Excellent social life for all ages, with bars, clubs and restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets and a thriving cultural scene with big name concerts, weekly outdoor festivals and many theatres and cinemas. ➜ Good medical services with a recently built state-of-the-art government hospital and many private clinics. ➜ Above UK-average schooling in English-speaking schools, and a respected university. ➜ A wide variety of property is available in all price ranges.
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WHO’S
WHO M A LTA B U S I N E S S profiles
Accounting & Auditing Deloitte 45 Griffiths and Associates 46 KPMG 48 PwC 48 RSM Malta 48 Banking HSBC Bank Malta P.L.C.- Custody Services HSBC International Banking Centre HSBC Bank Malta P.L.C.- Premier HSBC Bank Malta P.L.C- Retail Banking And Wealth Management Sparkasse Bank Malta Plc
46 47 47 47 48
Corporate Services Amicorp Malta Limited HBM Group
45 46
Fund Services Alter Domus services Malta Limited
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HR & Recruitment Castille Financial Services Limited Konnekt Search and Selection
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Insurance Firstunited Insurance Brokers Ltd
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Investment Services HSBC Global Asset Management (Malta) LTD
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Trust and Foundation Services Bentley Trust (Malta) Limited HSBC Bank Malta P.L.C. Trusts And Fiduciary Services Qube Services Limited
45 47 48
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Alter Domus Services Malta Limited Alter Domus provides outsourced administration services to a prestigious list of clients mainly in the field of investment management. The Group employs over 550 professionals in its 14 offices in Asia, Europe and US. It offers company management, fund administration and financial reporting services to corporate clients, private family offices, fund managers and financial institutions. It has been independently owned by its management since 2001. Domestica Building, 4th Floor, Msida Valley Road, Msida MSD9020 - Malta T: (+356) 2148 0828 • F: (+356) 2748 0829 E: chris.casapinta@alterdomus.com W: www.alterdomus.com Contact Person: Chris Casapinta - Managing Director
Chris Casapinta Managing Director
Amicorp Malta Limited Amicorp Malta Limited is a corporate services company assisting international clients with company formation and secretarial services together with accounting, payroll and tax compliance services. The company is licensed locally to act as a trustee and to carry out other fiduciary activities.
Level 1 Blue Harbour Business Centre, Ta’ Xbiex Yacht Marina, Ta’ Xbiex XBX 1027 - Malta T: (+356) 2258 4700 • F: (+356) 2258 4701 E: r.psaila@amicorp.com • W: www.amicorp.com Contact Person: Rudolph Psaila - Managing Director
Rudolph Psaila Managing Director
Bentley Trust (Malta) Limited Bentley Trust (Malta) Limited provides trust and company formation and administration on an international, multi-jurisdictional basis. We specialise in meeting the varied requirements of wealthy individuals and their families, entrepreneurs, corporate executive and charities. We can tailor solutions to address a broad range of client objectives. From our base in Malta and together with your chosen professional advisers, Bentley Trust (Malta) offers a highly personal, discrete service providing flexible, efficient administration of all client assets on a global basis. Bentley Trust (Malta) is regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority. Malcolm Becker CEO
Level 7, Portomaso Business Tower, St Julians STJ 4011 - Malta T: (+356) 2137 8828 • F: (+356) 2137 8383 E: malta@bentleyreid.com.mt W: www.bentleygroup.com Contact Person: Malcolm Becker - CEO
Castille FINANCIAL SERVICES Limited Castille is widely recognised as the leading financial recruitment firm in Malta, boasting an unparalleled track record in the areas of banking, insurance, assurance, fund management, fund administration, FOREX and corporate services. Castille Resources delivers best in class talent through our Permanent Placement, Executive Search and Interim services.
32-33, Old Bakery Street, Valletta - Malta T: (+356) 2123 4102 • F: (+356) 2123 4103 E: mac@castilleresources.com W: www.castilleresources.com Contact Person: Matthew Camilleri CA - Managing Director
Matthew Camilleri CA Managing Director
Deloitte Deloitte has the largest international tax practice in Malta that serves high-net-worth individuals, multinational businesses, and owner-managed entities to deliver tailored solutions. We will ensure that you take full advantage of Malta’s skill base, competitive cost base, regulatory environment, EU membership and attractive tax system in a manner appropriate to your needs. With a globally connected network of member firms in more than 150 countries, Deloitte brings world-class capabilities and deep local expertise to help you succeed.
Conrad Cassar Torregiani Leader International Tax
Deloitte Place, Mriehel Bypass, Mriehel BKR 3000 - Malta T: (+356) 2343 2000 • F: (+356) 21344 443 E: ctorregiani@deloitte.com.mt W: www.deloitte.com.mt Contact Person: Conrad Cassar Torregiani Leader International Tax
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FirstUnited Insurance Brokers Ltd FirstUnited Insurance Brokers Ltd is one of Malta’s leading independent insurance broker’s and is the Malta Network Partner for Willis International. Our dedicated team of insurance specialists provide a focused and personalised service offering market-leading solutions and products to institutional, private and multinational clients. Our experience, dedication and integrity are the most valuable assets we offer. Our specialised services include: Professional Risks - PI, D & O and Commercial Crime; Employee Benefits including Employers Liability, Accident & Sickness, Retirement, Life and Health insurance; Financial & Political Risks and other Business Solutions including Marine, Property, Construction and associated liabilities. Kevin Galea Pace Partner
Griffiths & Associates Established in 1982 and located in Swieqi, our firm of Certified Public Accountants offers a one-stop shop for assisting businesses in carrying on activities in, from or through Malta. The firm’s activities include company formations, back-office services, and international tax structuring, especially within the context of Malta’s extensive treaty network and advantageous tax regime. Being members of IGAF Polaris, an international association of accountants and advisers, adds value to the servicing of clients’ needs within an international perspective.
Peter J. Griffiths Managing & Tax Partner
HBM Group HBM Group (est. 1991) is a leading independent financial services provider. As a professional, client-oriented family of service companies, HBM Group is focused on delivering comprehensive international company solutions for businesses and individuals. Our service portfolio comprises the following: company set-up and incorporation services; nominee services; domiciliation services; directorship and management services; accounting and administrative services; back-office and support services; and fiduciary and trustee services. HBM Group provides its business support & corporate services in the following jurisdictions: Anguilla, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Colombia, Curaçao, Malta, New York, Panama, St. Maarten, The Netherlands and Uruguay. Jonathan Dalli Head of Marketing
HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. – Custody Services HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. is the leading global custodian in Malta providing a comprehensive custody proposition to institutional and retail clients. The service is tailored to cover investment in a broad range of asset classes as well as a diverse range of investment strategies. We provide a highly professional service with a strong focus on accuracy and transparency of assets. HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. is meticulous in segregating assets with a view to ensuring that client beneficial ownership is protected. HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. is a member of the HSBC Group, whose ultimate parent company is HSBC Holdings plc., which has one of the strongest balance sheets in the securities services industry. Joseph J Agius Head of Custody
HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. is licensed by the MFSA to conduct investment services business and is enrolled as a tied assurance intermediary of HSBC Life Assurance (Malta) Ltd.
HSBC Global Asset Management (Malta) Ltd HSBC Global Asset Management (Malta) Ltd was incorporated in 1996 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. overseeing over USD1.3 billion in assets as at 30 June 2011 across a range of mandates that invest in both domestic and international financial markets. HSBC Global Asset Management (Malta) Ltd provides an array of locally managed funds and is the distributor for HSBC Global Asset Management’s global fund range, providing access to a global asset management platform with a network spanning over 30 countries and territories worldwide. HSBC Global Asset Management (Malta) Ltd is active in the provision of tailor-made discretionary portfolio management services for institutions and family offices and has considerable expertise in managing insurance companies’ investment portfolios. Reuben Fenech Managing Director
HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. and HSBC Global Asset Management (Malta) Ltd are licensed to conduct investment services business by the MFSA.
25, Villa Eden, Princess Elizabeth Street, Ta’ Xbiex XBX 1103 - Malta T: (+356) 2131 9000 • F: (+356) 2134 7734 E: kgp@firstunited.com.mt W: www.firstunited.com.mt Contact Person: Kevin Galea Pace - Partner
Ivy Mansions, Triq il-Qasam, Swieqi SWQ 3025 - Malta T: (+356) 2138 3633 • F: (+356) 2138 3632 E: info@griffithsassoc.com W: www.griffithsassoc.com Contact Person: Peter J. Griffiths - Managing & Tax Partner
28, Cathedral Street, Sliema SLM 1525 - Malta T: (+356) 2132 3626 • F: (+356) 2132 3627 E: malta@hbmgroup.com • W: www.hbmgroup.com Contact Person: Jonathan Dalli - Head of Marketing
80, Mill Street, Qormi QRM 3101 - Malta T: (+356) 2380 5102 • F: (+356) 2380 5190 E: josephagius@hsbc.com W: www.hsbc.com.mt Contact Person: Joseph J Agius Head of Custody
80, Mill Street, Qormi QRM 3101 - Malta T: (+356) 2380 5130 • F: (+356) 2380 5191 E: reubenfenech@hsbc.com W: www.hsbc.com.mt Contact Person: Reuben Fenech - Managing Director
47 HSBC International Banking Centre The International Banking Centre is a specialised unit of HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. with a wealth of experience in providing the necessary banking services to corporate clients registered overseas, locally registered shipping and international trading companies (including trusts), companies with holding structures investing in Malta and foreignmanaged companies. HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. is enhanced by its global reach, expertise and networking capabilities and has all the necessary functions locally to assist such businesses with their Deposits, as well as Trade and Payments through its award winning HSBCnet cross-border internet platform. HSBC Group’s rating of AA is an additional level of comfort for the bank’s customers. Michel Cordina head of commercial banking
HSBC Bank Malta p.lc. – Premier HSBC Premier is an individually tailored package of exclusive premier banking services that can be accessed from anywhere you choose to live or work. With HSBC Premier, customers will have a dedicated relationship manager who will provide them with tailored financial solutions to meet their personal needs, overseas bank account opening and worldwide online premier banking, international recognition and emergency support, investment expertise and credit card privileges and rewards. HSBC Premier is the first internationally linked-up banking service being offered to our most valued customers. The focus is on making banking a convenient and pleasurable experience. Speranza Catania Head of Premier Proposition
HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. is licensed by the MFSA to conduct investment service business and is enrolled as a tied insurance intermediary of HSBC Life Assurance (Malta) Ltd.
HSBC Bank Malta p.lc. Trusts and Fiduciary Services HSBC Group has been involved in the field of trusts and estate administration for over 100 years. In Malta, HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c is one of the leading fiduciary services providers offering services relating to trusts, foundations, estate and corporate administration. We offer a number of straightforward and bespoke asset holding structures that will suit your requirements. Our services include the formation and administration of trusts, foundations, nominee arrangements and other structures with a wide range of uses such as asset/ portfolio management, inheritance planning, buying property in Malta and overseas, charities and special purposes, commercial uses and asset protection. Emanuel Magri Head of Trusts and Fiduciary Services
HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. is licensed by the MFSA to conduct investment services business and is enrolled as a tied assurance intermediary of HSBC Life Assurance (Malta) Ltd. HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. is authorised by the MFSA to act as trustee.
HSBC Bank Malta p.lc. - Retail Banking and Wealth Management Wealth Management HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. protects and enhances the wealth of local and international high-net-worth customers through the provision of professional financial advice based on a comprehensive range of local and international HSBC products and a select list of products managed by third-party providers. The scope of advice encompasses protection, retirement, savings and investments both on a personal and corporate basis. Advice is also available in relation to wealth planning, estate planning and the settlement and administration of Trusts and Foundations through our specialist Trust Services Department.
Martin Scicluna Head of Premier and
HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. is licensed by the MFSA to conduct investment services business and is enrolled as a tied insurance intermediary of HSBC Life Assurance (Malta) Ltd. HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. is authorised by the MFSA to act as trustee.
Wealth Management
KONNEKT Search & Selection KONNEKT is an established independent recruitment agency committed to deliver high quality solutions with passion, care and integrity. We are totally focused on Search and Selection with an uncompromising approach to quality and responsiveness, throughout the whole company. We have a recruitment methodology stemming from extensive experience in the business, international best practice and relentless research. Developments and improvements in our selection methodology are done in an iterative manner, moving on with social and technological trends. All our consultants ensure the conscientious application of our values and search and selection methodology, we also invest heavily in continuous professional development by attending training sessions both locally and overseas. Josef Said managing Director
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80, Mill Street, Qormi QRM 3101 - Malta T: (+356) 2380 4832 • F: (+356) 2380 4532 E: michelcordina@hsbc.com • W: www.hsbc.com.mt Contact Person: Michel Cordina Head of Commercial Banking
HSBC Retail Banking and Wealth Management Centre, 80, Mill Street, Qormi QRM 3101 - Malta T: (+356) 2380 2931 • F: (+356) 2380 2219 E: speranzacatania@hsbc.com W: www.hsbc.com.mt/premier Contact Person: Speranza Catania - Head of Premier Proposition
HSBC Retail Banking and Wealth Management Centre, 80, Mill Street, Qormi QRM 3101 - Malta T: (+356) 2380 2263 • F: (+356) 2380 2205 E: trustservicesmalta@hsbc.com W: www.hsbc.com.mt Contact Person: Emanuel Magri Head of Trusts and Fiduciary Services
80, Mill Street, Qormi QRM 3101 - Malta T: (+356) 2380 2950 • F: (+356) 2380 2205 E: martinscicluna@hsbc.com W: www.hsbc.com.mt Contact Person: Martin Scicluna Head of Premier and Wealth Management
Europa Centre, Level 1, St. Anne Street, Floriana FRN 9011 - Malta T: (+356) 2123 4010 E: info@konnekt.com • W: www.konnekt.com Contact Person: Josef Said - Managing Director
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KPMG KPMG in Malta is one of the leading providers of audit, tax and advisory services established in 1969. We are one of the largest professional services firms in Malta including 13 partners, 7 directors, and over 250 professional staff. Furthermore we have over 95 students enrolled in our Student Recruitment Programme. With a balanced mix of international and local clients, our goal is to turn knowledge into value for the benefit of our clients, our people, and the capital markets. We continue to build on past successes thanks to a clear vision, rigorously maintained values and, above all, our people.
Joseph Schembri Senior Partner
Portico Building, Marina Street, Pieta’ PTA 9044 - Malta T: (+356) 2563 1000 • F: (+356) 2566 1000 E: josephschembri@kpmg.com.mt W: www.kpmg.com.mt Contact Person: Joseph Schembri Senior Partner
PwC PwC is the leading and largest professional services organisation in Malta providing industry-focused assurance, tax and advisory services. The Malta firm forms part of the PwC network where more than 169,000 people in 158 countries share their thinking, experience and solutions to develop fresh perspectives and practical advice. PwC Malta provides tailored advice on the suitability and implications of the setting up of trusts and foundations through its dedicated multi-disciplinary professional team. The Malta firm is also active within the PwC network in promoting the characteristics and possible uses of trusts and foundations set up under Maltese law. 167, Merchants Street, Valletta VLT 1174 - Malta T: (+356) 2124 7000 • F: (+356) 2124 4768 E: neville.gatt@mt.pwc.com • W: www.pwc.com Contact Person: Neville Gatt - Partner
Neville Gatt PARTNER
QUBE Services Limited QUBE Services Limited is involved in trust/foundation and company formation in Malta. At QUBE Services Limited, we are also pleased to provide ancillary and related services, including but not limited to, provision of directors, company secretary, registered office and back office operations. We can be consulted on all legal and tax issues in connection with the above-mentioned business lines. Essentially we are a one-stop-shop for all tax-driven vehicles for corporate and non-corporate clients. Last but not least, we are able to assist with the setting up and/or registration of funds in Malta and with all connected and ancillary services in this sector. Michael Ellul DIRECTOR
RSM Malta RSM Malta is a multi-disciplinary firm with a proven track record that provides sound and practical advice to international investors interested to set up a business in Malta. We employ various specialists to provide a full range of services including: tax planning and compliance, company formation and re-domiciliation, due diligence, mergers and acquisitions, accounting and payroll, business and IT advisory and audit. Our organisational set up is such that enables us to provide swift and efficient solutions tailored to client needs and ensure the highest standard of quality services at all times. The firm forms part of RSM International, a global network of independent accounting and consulting firms. George Gregory tax and corporate services partner
168, St Christopher Street, Valletta VLT1467 - Malta T: (+356) 2122 7553 • F: (+356) 2122 7667 E: michael.ellul@qubeservices.com thomasjacobsen@qubeservices.com W: www.qubeservices.com Contact Person: Michael Ellul/ Thomas Jacobsen - Directors
Cobalt House, Level 2, Notabile Road, Mriehel BKR 3000 - Malta T: (+356) 2149 3313 • F: (+356) 2149 3318 E: george.gregory@rsmmalta.com.mt W: www.rsmmalta.com.mt Contact Person: George Gregory - Tax and Corporate Services Partner
SPARKASSE BANK MALTA PLC The Bank forms part of the Austrian Savings Banks and the Ertse Group Bank AG network. From Malta the Bank provides Private Banking, Wealth Management and Fund Custody solutions. As trained Private Bankers, the bank delivers private, personal and tailored solutions to its customers by offering seamless banking, execution, settlement and custody solutions from one account.
Paul A. Mifsud Managing Director
101 Townsquare, Ix-Xatt ta’ Qui-si-Sana, Sliema SLM 3112 - Malta T: (+356) 2133 5705 • F: (+356) 2133 5710 E: Paul.mifsud@sparkasse-bank-malta.com W: www.sparkasse-bank-malta.com Contact Person: Paul A. Mifsud - Managing Director
Competence, Experience, Excellence As Malta’s international financial services centre expands rapidly, high on the list of critical success factors is the country’s pool of highly-qualified, experienced professionals. Malta’s centuries’ old University provides a steady stream of accomplished graduates such as lawyers, accountants, economists and business managers to service Malta’s financial services sector, while risk managers, underwriters, fund managers, fund administrators and trust managers are trained to the highest levels at internationally recognised institutes. In a sector that depends on excellence, high levels of competence are demanded from the financial services workforce The excellence of Malta’s finance professionals has already attracted some of the world’s most highly-respected institutions, including leading credit institutions, insurance companies, fund management companies, insurance managers, pensions, trusts and treasury companies. Success depends on competence and expertise... Malta provides both.
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