What is Trust?
It is a fiduciary relationship between a client (Settlor) and a trust company (Trustee). Upon entering into a trust deed with the trustee, the settlor transfers the title of his assets (i.e. cash, real estate, bond, etc) to his trustee who will manage his/her asset according to the trust deed for the benefit to the Beneficiary of the trust designated by the settlor.
Is Trust only applicable for HNWI (High-Net-Worth Individual)?
In the past, Trust used to be the wealth management instrument for High-Net-Worth individuals due to the high set up and maintenance fees. In our view, any individual is eligible to enjoy the benefit of trust service.
What is Hong Kong Fiduciary Association Limited’s belief and business philosophy?
As we believe that trust service is applicable to people other than the High-Net-Worth, we’ve collaborated with trust companies to lower the thresholds for trust service fees and asset values so as to extend the services to as many people as possible.
How can trust assure the confidentiality of your asset?
Trust assures the confidentiality of your asset when you transfer the ownership of your asset to the trust. By transferring your asset to your trustee, your trustee is the nominal owner of your asset while you are still the de facto owner of your asset via a trust deed. Hence, your asset is visible to no one but yourself and the beneficiary.
Why do settlors want to transfer their asset to trust?
Settlors will be relieved from certain risks if their asset is put to a trust. For instance, the asset in the trust will not be affected by legal dispute or personal liabilities of the settlor, purchase of property may be allowed under the name of trustee rather than the settlor which may avoid the possible dispute caused by the purchase by family member or friend on behalf of the settlor.
How to ensure smooth transfer of your asset to your designated beneficiary?
The beneficiary of trust is designated by you and may change from time to time. In the event of mishaps, the beneficiary will have the right to claim all or any part of the asset in the trust when he/she deem necessary. Relevant regulations and Law of Hong Kong SAR ensure smooth inheritance of the asset in the trust.
How to verify that Hong Kong Trust can offer high level of protection and security to the settlors?
Firstly, Hong Kong Trust has a history of more than 100 years. The service has been regulated by Hong Kong Law for over 70 years. Secondly, trustees in Hong Kong are required to obtain Hong Kong Trust License in order to establish themselves as qualified trustees and have the capability to provide trust service professionally.
How does Hong Kong Fiduciary Association Limited popularizes trust service?
Traditional trust service requires an initial set up fee of USD150,000 to USD200,000 and a 2% annual management fee, indicating that the service is exclusive for High-Net-Worth settlors. Hong Kong Fiduciary Association Limited can arrange Hong Kong Trust service with a lowered set up fee and annual management fee so that settlors in Hong Kong, China and any other place can enjoy the service.
How can settlors achieve high flexibility on asset management through Hong Kong Trust?
Hong Kong Fiduciary Association Limited works closely with over 30 global investment banks and Is able to tailor-make diversified investment solutions according to the settlor’s needs.
What can we offer to settlors who have little investment experience?
We can arrange high yield investment plan to settlors who have little investment experience. The settlors will enjoy the highest return possible from the investment plan that can possibly be found in Hong Kong and China.