Offshore Holding Company – Benefits, Process To Start & FAQs

An offshore holding company is a business founded in a nation or territory with favourable tax laws and other advantages. These businesses are registered outside the country where their principal investors reside.

Offshore holding companies are frequently created to hold shares of the assets of a client or another company in a passive capacity. Offshore Holding Company is available for several purposes but is not engaged in the acquisition or sale of any goods or services.

The offshore holding company structure is typically established in a foreign jurisdiction as an international business company (IBC). The Offshore Holding Company acts like any other local legal organization by trading, opening accounts, investing, and taking part in financial operations. 

USES OF AN OFFSHORE HOLDING COMPANY

Companies that operate internationally or in a variety of marketplaces sometimes employ the corporate structuring strategy of isolating the liabilities of a parent company by forming multiple subsidiaries in the form of holding companies that are not liable to one another.

When done properly across subsidiaries, intra-group financing strategies and tax restructuring can benefit subsidiary companies.

It is possible to reduce risk by separating the legal and financial liability that exists between various businesses by using a holding structure to segregate assets, such as intellectual property, stocks, or any other sort of investment.

Separating corporate assets may help in risk management by reducing the possibility of losses from either the parent firm or its subsidiaries.

When a holding company is properly set up, there is limited responsibility between each subsidiary and the parent business, making the corporation immune from any obligations that another might incur.

If a subsidiary, for instance, were to engage in a high-risk venture, the loss of assets and related liabilities would not be transferable to any other subsidiaries unless there was evidence of a fraudulent conveyance.

BEST OFFSHORE JURISDICTION FOR A HOLDING COMPANY

One can establish an offshore holding company in a lot of nations. Nevertheless, whether they can open or not will rely on the laws and regulations of the country, the nature of the industry, and their citizenship or place of residency.

Some of the best countries to set up an offshore holding company are:

• Singapore (Refer to Singapore offshore company for more information)
• Hong Kong
• Cyprus
• Scotland
• Panama
• Marshall Islands
• Nevis

COMMON STRUCTURES OF THE OFFSHORE HOLDING COMPANY

• International Business Company (IBC) – An International Business Company (IBC) is a popular offshore structure due to its flexibility and ease of setup. It is typically incorporated in a low-tax or tax-neutral jurisdiction. An IBC allows for various activities, such as holding assets, conducting international trade, and acting as a holding or investment vehicle. It offers advantages like limited liability, confidentiality, and simplified reporting requirements.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is another common structure for offshore holding companies. It provides limited liability protection to its members while offering flexibility in terms of ownership and management. LLCs are often used for asset protection, investment holding, and estate planning purposes. The specific regulations governing LLCs can vary among jurisdictions.
• Trust – A trust is a legal arrangement where a trustee holds and manages assets on behalf of beneficiaries. Offshore trusts can provide various benefits, including asset protection, tax planning, and estate management. The trust structure allows individuals or families to transfer assets while maintaining control or protecting assets from creditors. Offshore jurisdictions with robust trust laws are commonly chosen for setting up trusts.
• Foundation – A foundation is a legal entity that combines elements of a trust and a corporation. It is often used for philanthropic, charitable, or family wealth management purposes. Foundations typically have a founder who endows assets, a foundation council or board that manages the foundation’s affairs, and beneficiaries who benefit from the foundation’s assets and activities. Offshore jurisdictions with foundation laws offer attractive options for structuring wealth and charitable endeavors.

HOW TO START A HOLDING COMPANY IN OFFSHORE JURISDICTION?

Step 1: Selecting the business structure – To launch a holding company, a business structure must be determined. It can be created through an LLC or a corporation.

Step 2: File the Business Application – The filing of the holding company application and submission of it to the appropriate authorities is one of the most important processes. The following documents are required in addition to the properly filled-out application:

• Copy of passport and visa of the shareholders
• Memorandum and articles of association
• Well-drafted business plan
• Relevant fees to incorporate the holding company

Step 3: Opening a bank account – Opening an offshore bank account will help with the necessary business transactions once the company records have been provided correctly.

Step 4: Accumulating Funds and Start Operations – The holding company needs to have the appropriate financing in place before the investing process can start.  It should be mentioned that the holding company is where the wealth of the subsidiary companies should remain. Once the business is properly financed, it may be used to carry out the necessary procedures and perform investment operations.

Step 5: Keeping the Records Updated – The maintenance of corporate records is a crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked. Once the holding company is founded and begins the process of purchasing shares in other businesses, an appropriate track needs to be kept in line with that. The corporate entity can calculate the transfers at the end of the year if these accounting and bookkeeping records are kept properly.

OFFSHORE HOLDING COMPANY ANNUAL COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS

• Offshore holding companies are typically required to prepare and submit annual financial statements to the relevant authorities. These statements provide a snapshot of the company’s financial position, including its assets, liabilities, income, and expenses. The financial statements may need to be audited by a certified public accountant or a registered auditor.
• Holding companies often need to hold an AGM to discuss and approve matters related to the company’s operations, financial statements, and any significant decisions. The AGM provides an opportunity for shareholders or directors to gather, review the company’s performance, and make strategic decisions.
• Many offshore jurisdictions require holding companies to file an annual return with the local registrar of companies. The annual return typically includes updated information about the company’s directors, shareholders, registered address, and share capital. It ensures that the company’s details in the registrar’s records are accurate and up to date.

ADVANTAGES OF AN OFFSHORE HOLDING COMPANY

• Tax advantages – Many offshore jurisdictions have favorable tax regimes that can provide significant tax savings. These may include low or zero corporate taxes, exemptions on capital gains, dividends, or inheritance taxes. By establishing an offshore holding company, the applicant can potentially reduce their overall tax burden and optimize their tax planning strategies.
• Asset protection – Offshore holding companies can provide a layer of asset protection by placing assets in a jurisdiction with robust laws and legal frameworks. This protection can shield assets from potential lawsuits, creditors, or political instability in your home country. It adds an additional barrier that can help safeguard your wealth.
• Privacy and confidentiality – Offshore jurisdictions often offer greater privacy and confidentiality compared to onshore jurisdictions. The level of disclosure required for beneficial ownership is typically less stringent, providing an extra layer of privacy for individuals or companies. Enhanced privacy can be beneficial for high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, or those who value confidentiality in their financial affairs.
• International operations and investments – Offshore holding companies can facilitate international business operations and investments. They offer a platform to structure and manage cross-border transactions, acquire assets or companies in foreign jurisdictions, and engage in international trade. Such flexibility can streamline operations and provide access to new markets and investment opportunities.
• Succession planning and estate management – Offshore holding companies can be utilized for efficient succession planning and estate management. They provide a structured framework to pass on assets to future generations, ensuring a smooth transfer of wealth. Through trusts, foundations, or other estate planning tools, an offshore holding company can help preserve family wealth and manage inheritance effectively.
• Diversification and risk management – By establishing an offshore holding company, one can diversify their assets and investments across different jurisdictions. This diversification helps mitigate risks associated with political instability, economic fluctuations, or changes in local regulations. It allows them to spread the assets and investments geographically, potentially reducing overall risk exposure.
• International credibility and business expansion – Operating through an offshore holding company in a reputable jurisdiction can enhance international credibility and create a favorable business image. It can help attract international clients, investors, or partners who value the stability and business-friendly environment associated with certain offshore jurisdictions.

DISADVANTAGES OF AN OFFSHORE HOLDING COMPANY

• Increased scrutiny – Offshore holding companies may face increased scrutiny from authorities, including tax authorities and regulatory agencies. This can lead to higher compliance costs and more complex reporting requirements.
• Reputation – Offshore holding companies are often associated with tax evasion, money laundering, and other illegal activities. This can damage the company’s reputation and harm its business relationships.
• Legal complexities – Offshore jurisdictions often have different legal systems and regulations, which can be challenging to navigate. Businesses may need to hire local legal counsel and other professionals to ensure compliance.
• Limited market access – Some offshore jurisdictions may have limited market access, making it difficult for businesses to reach customers or conduct business in certain regions.

Reach out to us at Relin Consultants for further assistance.