Pure Swissness

Thanks to our many years of experience in the industry, we offer customised solutions. As a Swiss trustee with FINMA authorisation, we act as an independent trustee for domestic and foreign clients.

Stable, politically secure, legal and economic environment

Not subject to EU legislation

International market access

Bank-independent trustee with an open platform

Many years of experience in the fiduciary sector through co-operation with First Advisory 

Possible applications

The trustee holds the assets of the trust in Switzerland and abroad in its own name. Trust assets may include bank assets, real estate, companies, participations, art and other collections.

First Trust Services AG acts as an independent trustee for domestic and foreign clients. The settlors are closely involved in the process. It is also possible to appoint protectors or co-trustees. The Swiss trustee recommends the use of Liechtenstein trust law for the setup, as this is codified in civil law and best corresponds to the Swiss legal system. Other common law jurisdictions can also be selected at the client's request, whereby specialists from the relevant legal systems must be consulted as standard (e.g. Guernsey). In addition to the formation of new trusts, existing trusts from different jurisdictions can also be taken over.

Swiss private property

As a special case, private real estate in Switzerland can be held by the Swiss trustee. This is focussed on Swiss clients and situations regulated under Lex Koller. In these cases, First Trust Services AG is entered in the relevant land register as the owner of the trust.

Under the Lex Koller, the transfer of private real estate located in Switzerland to a trust is generally tax-free, provided that the trustee, settlor and beneficiaries are Swiss or EU/EFTA citizens (the tax consequences must be examined on a case-by-case basis and secured in advance with a ruling).

Structuring through a Swiss trustee has various advantages, such as safeguarding freedom of action in the event of the involvement of the Child and Adult Protection Authority (KESB), separation under civil law and thus asset protection, succession planning for family property and the consolidation of indivisible assets.

Get in touch with us

We attach great importance to personalised support to ensure that we fully understand your requirements. Our team is always at your disposal and will be happy to advise you on our services.