IslamicFinance.de

The typical GCC merchant family is facing many challenges to the maintenance, expansion and inter-generational transitioning of its wealth. According to Yann Mrazek, Managing Partner at M/HQ, there is some gradual increase in investment outside the region, but nearly three-quarters remains in the region. The focus remains concentrated on only three asset classes, the family’s own business, real estate, cash or deposits. While times are clearly changing and people from the GCC are spreading out further, their assets seem to become more concentrated. Moreover, the UAE economy is more open than ever before, implying greater competition for businesses. All this represents a wonderful opportunity for firms such as M/HQ. An estimated 30% of families are not thinking about estate planning, while 70% are receptive to legacy matters. For those with offshore assets, a trust or a foundation are likely to be compatible. For domestic assets, there are new tools being rolled out in the region. These include new SFO, trust and foundation regimes.