Brandeaux February Update 2014
By Chris Burke
This article is published on: 25th February 2014
Brandeaux February Update 2014
Brandeaux Student Accommodation Fund (Sterling) Limited
Brandeaux Student Accommodation Fund (Multi Currency) Limited
Announcement
Further to the recent press speculation, the Brandeaux Student Accommodation Fund (Sterling) Limited and the Brandeaux Student Accommodation Fund (Multi Currency) Limited confirm that they are continuing to actively review various options with the aim of creating liquidity for their existing shareholders. The options being considered include a potential initial public offering of the assets of the Brandeaux Student Accommodation Fund (Sterling) Limited. The consideration of an initial public offering is at an early stage and there is no certainty at this time that this option will be pursued.
A further statement will be made as and when appropriate.
The above is an extract from Brandeaux on the February update of their suspended funds. In many cases we will be able to help you if you have money frozen in these funds, please contact one of our advisers to find out more
Written by: Chris Burke based in the Barcelona/Costa Brava area
If you are based in that area contact Chris at: chris.burke@spectrum-ifa.com
If you are in another area please complete the form below and we will put a local adviser in touch with you.
Investments can have too much structure
By John Hayward
This article is published on: 24th February 2014
What are structured products?
Structured products are usually set up as an investment of a lump sum in exchange for a return based on the performance of an underlying index such as the FTSE100. They are arranged as fixed term contracts of, normally, 5 to 6 years although some can pay out earlier under certain circumstances. They can be bought from a variety of sources and are particularly popular with banks.
Structured products could be suitable for someone who is willing to buy and hold, understanding that if markets fall sufficiently, then the return could be less than what was paid in. Some structured products offer capital guarantees. This ´promise´ of the return of your initial investment can be somewhat veiled in that the guarantee could be based on the particular underlying index not falling below, say, 50% of its starting level. For example, the initial investment is made and the FTSE100 and that point stands at 6000. 5 years later, the end of the contract, the FTSE100 is at 5700. In this case, the client would receive the full initial investment even though the index level has fallen. Some suggest that the FTSE100 falling by 50% is not likely thus selling the product as risk free. The FTSE100 certainly has fallen by more than 50% in the past (eg. 1999 to 2003).
The people offering any guarantee could be a third party. This is where we have another level of risk, known as counter-party risk. If the third party fails then the guarantee could be worthless.
Another risk is people wanting to access their money before the fixed term is up. The problem is that these products often have no secondary market which could mean you may not be able sell it without suffering a significant loss.
As with all types of investments, there are varieties on a theme, some suitable, some not, depending on one´s risk profile. Complete understanding is essential from the outset.
For more information on how we can protect your savings whilst offering low risk, liquid investments, contact one of our advisers.
Brandeaux Suspended Funds Update
By Chris Burke
This article is published on: 19th February 2014
The following is an extract from Brandeaux on the latest update of their suspended funds. In many cases we will be able to help you if you have money frozen in these funds, please contact me below to find out more:
Chris Burke
Partner
Office; 34 936652828
Mobile; 34 689915730
chris.burke@spectrum-ifa.com
Ground Rent Income Fund Limited, The Ground Rent Portfolio Limited Ground Rent Portfolio Plus Limited (the “Ground Rent Funds”)
Brandeaux Dual Asset Fund (Sterling) LimitedBrandeaux Dual Asset Fund (US Dollar) LimitedBrandeaux Dual Asset Fund (Euro) Limited(the “Dual Asset Funds”)
Brandeaux Student Accommodation Fund (Sterling) LimitedBrandeaux Student Accommodation Fund (Multi Currency) Limited(the “Student Funds”)
(and together the “Brandeaux Funds”)
The Ground Rent Funds
Update on sales The Brandeaux Update of 26 September 2013 reported that the Ground Rent Funds were in negotiations on sale transactions representing approximately 80% of the total value of the ground rent properties.
Brandeaux is pleased to report that property sales to release approximately £173 million of liquidity available for shareholders have now been achieved representing approximately 37% of the total remaining assets of the Ground Rent Funds. The sale prices for these properties are in line with the directors’ expectations as communicated in our last Brandeaux Update of 26 September 2013 and therefore there is no change to the current share price of any of the Ground Rent Funds.
The potential buyer for the remaining properties that we reported in our September Update as being at an advanced stage failed to complete the purchase in the agreed time frame. This was unexpected and disappointing, but the continuing interest that has been shown in these properties is very positive and a reflection of their inherent value. Brandeaux has recommenced marketing of these properties and will report progress as it develops. In addition, Brandeaux is actively marketing two remaining portfolios and has received significant interest.
Future of the Ground Rent Funds Given the desire that has been expressed by investors in the Ground Rent Funds to realise liquidity, and following the positive results achieved in property sales so far, the directors of the Ground Rent Funds have resolved to market and sell all the remaining properties within the Ground Rent Funds. Once completed, the intention is to wind-up the Ground Rent Funds.
The directors do not wish to wait until winding-up the Ground Rent Funds is completed before releasing to shareholders the proceeds of the sales achieved thus far and so, after allowing for ongoing operating cash requirements and transaction costs, it is intended that the net proceeds will be released to shareholders as quickly as possible. It is presently anticipated that this will take place early in the New Year.
In view of the intention to wind-up the Ground Rent Funds, the directors consider that the best way of ensuring that all shareholders benefit fairly from the liquidity created by the sales is to make compulsory pro rata share redemptions to all shareholders. The effect is that every shareholder will
receive a proportion of the available liquidity based on their current percentage shareholding. The directors have written separately to all shareholders in the Ground Rent Funds to provide further details of the arrangements, process and timing of the redemptions.
The directors will keep under review the progress of further sales and whether further redemptions can be made as further property sales are achieved prior to the commencement of the winding-up process. It is not possible to say definitively when further property sales will complete and, therefore, when the winding-up process will commence. However, the directors are taking steps to progress these matters as quickly as possible while at the same time preserving shareholder value.
The Dual Asset FundsThe Dual Asset Funds, which are shareholders in Ground Rent Income Fund Limited (as well as in Brandeaux Student Accommodation Fund (Sterling) Limited), will receive their share of the net proceeds of the Ground Rent property sales as these are distributed. The Dual Asset Funds will distribute their share of the proceeds of each redemption to their own shareholders on the same basis as the Ground Rent Funds, namely by way of a compulsory pro rata share redemption to all shareholders. It is intended that this will be carried out promptly following the share redemptions by the Ground Rent Funds. The effect is that every shareholder will receive a proportion of the available liquidity based on their current percentage shareholding.
The directors have written separately to all shareholders in the Dual Asset Funds to provide further details of the arrangements, process and timing of the redemptions.
Future of the Dual Asset Funds The Dual Asset Funds were created to give investors exposure to both the Ground Rent and Student Accommodation asset classes within one fund. Once the Ground Rent Funds are wound-up, the Dual Asset Funds will no longer be invested in both asset classes. The directors therefore intend to wind-up the Dual Asset Funds in due course. In order for this process to be completed it will be necessary for the Dual Asset Funds to first realise their investment in Brandeaux Student Accommodation Fund (Sterling) Limited and then distribute the proceeds to shareholders. Accordingly, it will be necessary for liquidity to be achieved in the Student Funds before the Dual Asset Funds can be wound-up.
Important information for IFA’s who have clients invested in The Ground Rent Funds and the Dual Asset Funds through institutional platformsThe shareholders of the Brandeaux Funds are the institutional platforms that hold Participating Shares in these funds. Brandeaux does not have details of any underlying investors (neither their names nor bond numbers) and are unable to identify their individual holdings. IFA’s should contact the relevant platform for information concerning queries from their clients, and the process and timing of distributions from the platforms over which Brandeaux has no control.
The Student Funds The directors are actively continuing the process for the creation of liquidity for shareholders through property sales and other means, although the timeframe remains, at present, uncertain. A number of discussions have taken place over the past six months and the directors are actively looking at various alternative ways to create liquidity for investors but at this time there is nothing further to report.
A further update will be sent when there is information of significance to report.
16 December 2013
This Update is for information purposes only and is not intended as an offer or solicitation to anyone in any jurisdiction in which such an offer or solicitation is not authorised, or to any person to whom it would be unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation. Persons who receive this Update are required to inform themselves about and observe any such restrictions and should seek professional advice. This Update should be read in conjunction with the Funds’ Articles of Association and Private Placement Memoranda. Information and representations herein are based on information available at the date hereof, and are, therefore, subject to change. In particular, past returns are not a guide to future returns and the value of shares may go down as well as up. Moreover, returns in non-sterling denominated shares classes may increase or decrease subject to currency fluctuations. Brandeaux calculates its returns net of Brandeaux charges. This Update is distributed on behalf of Brandeaux Managers Limited by Brandeaux Administrators Limited, Brandeaux House, 13 Upper Mount Street, Dublin 2, Ireland, which is authorised and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland under the Investment Intermediaries Act, 1995.
QROPS and EURBS – Common questions asked
By Chris Burke
This article is published on: 23rd January 2014
As a specialist in UK and Irish pensions, here is a list questions I’m often presented with on QROPS and EURBS. If any of these apply to you, do not hesitate to get in touch for a consultation, free of charge. chris.burke@spectrum-ifa.com
UK Pension Transfer or ‘QROPS’ – what does it mean?
A Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) is a pension scheme transferred or opened outside the UK that meets requirements set by HMRC in the United Kingdom
If I eventually plan to return to the UK, what would this mean for my Transferred Pension?
If you intend to return to the UK permanently or to work, your Transferred Pension will become subject to the same regulations and tax treatments as a UK domiciled pension. It may then make sense to move it back to the UK as a ‘Self-Invested Pension Plan’ (SIPP) for efficiency.
However, if it is your intention to move back to the UK in the future then it is usually inappropriate to transfer your UK pension to a QROPS.
I might want to change location, will this affect my Transferred Pension?
If you live or work in another country, for example you move from Spain to Switzerland, your overseas pension will stay in the jurisdiction it was set up in. You can continue to make contributions regardless of what country you are living (remember though that if you move back to the UK, your pension will be bound by UK pension regulations). You can receive income and contribute to your Transferred Pension in any currency; so even if you move to several different locations, you can still use your Transferred Pension (QROPS).
If you are taking income and then move to another country, the amount of income tax you pay would vary from country to county.
What currencies can I have my UK Pension in once it is transferred?
Your plan can be denominated in Sterling, Euros, US Dollars, and many other currencies on request. Should it be beneficial to you, the currency can be changed at any stage cost effectively.
I have a UK state pension scheme, is it possible to transfer this also?
It is not possible to transfer a UK state pension overseas – UK transfer applies to your corporate and private pension schemes only.
If I have already taken an annuity, can I still transfer my UK pension overseas?
No, it is no longer possible to transfer your UK pension if you have already taken an annuity.
Do I still need to purchase an annuity once my UK pension has been transferred overseas?
No, you do not need to purchase an annuity once you have transferred your pension overseas.
How much does it cost to transfer my UK pension and set up a Qualified Recognised Overseas Pension?
QROPS costs differ depending on the scheme, location and the service level that you require. The main costs you will be looking at are the initial set-up fee and an annual management fee. They are generally slightly more expensive than a UK pension for the first 5 years and then on a par.
Can I manage the assets within my Transferred Pension myself?
It depends on the provider you decide on – some allow you to manage your own assets, while others insist on managing them for you. We suggest you use a financial adviser for guidance, even if you wish to manage your pension assets yourself. Contact us for more information.
What assets can be transferred to a QROPS?
Most UK pension schemes, and the underlying assets, other than the UK State pension can be transferred overseas (as a QROPS). We recommend an independent evaluation of your schemes to find out which are eligible. Contact us for more information.
Can I keep the same pension funds in my UK pension?
Potentially yes, it is possible to transfer your funds ‘In Specie’ meaning you keep the existing funds and investments from your UK pension.
Can I transfer more than one UK pension overseas into a QROPS?
There is no limit on how many pension transfers a QROPS may receive provided that each scheme relates to the same member. Overseas pensions are a good way of consolidating and managing several schemes in to one.
Is there a minimum transfer value to transfer my UK pensions?
We generally suggest that the combined value of pensions transferred into an overseas pension (QROPS) should exceed £50,000 as an absolute minimum for the scheme to be beneficial to the member. However in the majority of cases it is more appropriate for the final transfer value to exceed £75,000.
When can I access my UK pension?
The retirement date for a transferred pension can usually be any time between the member’s 55th and 75th birthday. Different QROPS jurisdictions may have slightly different age limits, ie Malta’s top age limit is age 70.
Can I still contribute to my transferred pension?
You can receive income and contribute to your Transferred Pension in any currency; so even if you move to several different locations, you can still use your Transferred Pension (QROPS).
How much of the fund can I take as a lump sum?
At the member’s nominated retirement date it is usually possible to take up to 30% of the value of the fund as a lump sum. The lump sum must precede the pension and is a one off payment. For members who have been non-UK resident for less than five full, consecutive tax years the maximum will be 25% of the fund transferred from the UK.
How is my pension calculated?
The basis for the pension withdrawal is calculated using the limits defined by the UK Government Actuaries Department (GAD) tables. . The GAD rates are dependent on your age and the 15 year Gilt rates. Then the maximum income allowable is 120% of this GAD rate. This is in line with the UK drawdown rules. In all cases, the maximum pension level will be reviewed at least every three years and after the maximum age of 70 or 75, depending on juridiction, it will usually be reviewed yearly.
How will my pension be taxed once outside the UK?
As long as there is a Double Taxation Agreement the income is paid Gross and then you are taxed in the country that you are resident in via your tax declaration, again each QROPS jurisdictions rules will vary slightly. In essence you should be no worse off than if you were receiving the pension in the UK or maybe even better off.
What if I die?
Depending on where your next of kin resides then the QROPS can either be paid out in its entirety or be structured so it rolls into a trust for the benefit of your next of kin.
Who will receive my pension when I die?
Your designate as beneficiaries, or, according to your Last Will and Testament.
Can I transfer my UK pension into a QROPS myself?
No. Only appointed intermediaries are allowed to do a QROPS Pension Transfer. This is because you need to have expert advice on this as well as the paperwork being intensive.
I don’t have all the details regarding my UK pensions, what can I do?
With some basic information we can trace most pensions.
How do I know if my UK Pension Transfer scheme is HMRC approved?
The current list of eligible QROPS Pension Transfer schemes can be found here: http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/PENSIONSCHEMES/qrops.pdf
How does a QROPS work?
In effect it is similar to a UK pension except it’s held in a trust, which reports to the HMRC each year to confirm your pension is safe and adhering to the rules.
What UK pensions can be considered for a Pension Transfer?
- Personal Pensions
- Final Salary Pensions
- Money Purchase Section 32 and Section 226
- FURB/URB
- Civil Service & Armed Forces
- Protected Rights/GMP
When should I not transfer my ‘frozen’ pension?
Each instance varies and you will require the advice of a pension professional. Contact us.
What is the minimum age I can draw benefit and how much?
From age 55 year you can take up to 30% lump sum of your fund. 70% minimum, remaining funds need to provide ‘income for life’.
Spectrum Economic Forum Davos 2014
By David Hattersley
This article is published on: 20th January 2014
Having spent four days on a wonderful Spectrum IFA Group Annual Conference I have now had time to read again the scripts of the presentations and reflect on their impact on investment strategies. Apart from the fact it was by consensus of the other Partners one of the best conferences to date, helped by the friendliness of the staff at the Sheraton Hotel, and the stunning location, the presentations by the investment managers we use were of great interest.
When you consider the diversity of styles and approaches from the likes of Jupiter, BlackRock, Henderson / Gartmore, JP Morgan and Kames, it became very apparent that they all held similar views with regard to the markets and the potential area’s for growth for 2014 and beyond. This was enforced by a question and answer forum near to the end of meetings with all of them present to answer a variety of questions. The major message was that any investment holding substantial cash was no longer an option both now and for the foreseeable future. Whatever a client’s attitude to risk was, and their requirement for either real income, capital growth or both, a solution was available. But rather than a single asset class, spread of assets on a global basis was vital, and that was the key message that came out.
It was also of interest talking to the CEO of Prudential International, Michael Leahy , not so much about investment, but his view of the future for Prudential as a company and why. In some ways it matched the views of the fund managers, still focusing on the developed world e.g. the UK, but expanding, in Europe where opportunities existed, the Far East and other global opportunities.
Finally it was good to have a presentation from “Best Invest”, voted by the readers of Investors Chronicle, the UK Wealth Manager of the year and Best Wealth Manager for Investments in 2013 by the Financial Times. They can provide a solution for those clients of ours that may be returning to the UK or who are not resident in Europe, but work abroad, have holiday homes here and hold ISA’s, PEP’s and need advice on their UK pensions if a QROPS is unsuitable.
After all the hard work, it was great to wander through the snow, take in the bracing fresh air and explore Davos, with its variety of bars and restaurants. It was also interesting to see how the arrival of the World Economic Forum transformed and affected such a small resort. As a non-skier, and I am pleased I am a non skier having seen how steep the slopes were, it was more relaxing for me. Next year we are off to Bordeaux, warmer climes and although Swiss Air was brilliant, a pleasant drive there is already being planned.
Will Spain be moved by Brussels?
By John Hayward
This article is published on: 28th December 2013
We are at the end of 2013 and after all the festivities some people have the less than happy task of making tax and asset declarations. From the 1st January 2014 to 31st March 2014, residents of Spain will be wondering if they need to complete the Modelo 720 Overseas Assets Declaration. In 2013 there was an immense amount of uncertainty for both those having to declare and also for the accountants who had to work out how to complete the Modelo 720. It seemed that each day a new “Frequently asked question” would appear on the Agencia Tributaria website. The deadline of 30th April 2013 was also part of the revisions having initially been set at 31st March. From 2014, the deadline is 31st March, unless this is revised again.
In the background there have been pressure groups attempting to persuade the European Parliament that this law is discriminatory and that the Kingdom of Spain is acting illegally. Full details of the complaint. The problem is that, as with other complaints made to the European Parliament, Commission, or Court of Human Rights, the speed of response, if any, is pedestrian. Take the Land Grab law. Spain and Valencia have been reprimanded but it seems nothing has actually changed. In my village, a new property development law was introduced in 2004 which would see 30 or so property owners having to pay for a new infrastructure and lose part of their land as well. This is still law although it is unknown when the development will be started. Not soon is the standard guess.
The fact is, as much as some might feel aggrieved about some laws in Spain, they are unlikely to go away. Some believe that Spain might be shooting itself in the foot if it thinks that charging people more is going to encourage people to stay. For example, inheritance tax, which was of little or no significance for residents of the Valencian Community due to a 99% reduction for those who qualified, was increased on 6th August 2013. Other autonomous regions will also be taking steps to balance the books. News of bad weather in the UK, The Netherlands, or Germany may not be sufficient to hold onto foreign residents.
How can The Spectrum IFA Group help you? We do not recommend money is invested in Spanish institutions other than small amounts on deposit for regular short term expenses and needs. Why? Firstly, because we do not have enough confidence in them and, secondly, because we have a wider selection of products at our disposal, especially for Spanish tax residents. Therefore, we can deal with overseas insurance companies and investment houses without your money being in Spain. At the same time, the investments are 100% tax compliant in Spain.
The main areas we look at are UK Pensions and the suitability of transferring these funds to a QROPS (Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme). I hold the Chartered Insurance Institute Specialist Pension G60 qualification. Every company discussing pension planning and transfers should have this or its equivalent. In addition we help people to accumulate more from their money, allowing access to income in a tax friendly manner. We use Spanish Compliant Bonds for residents of Spain.
Under the Modelo 720 Overseas Asset Declaration, neither a QROPS, which can hold a Spanish Compliant Bond, or a Spanish Compliant Bonds held outside a QROPS, is declarable. In addition, we can arrange your investments so that there is a reduced, and possibly no, inheritance tax to pay by your dependants or beneficiaries.
For more information, contact your local advisor
Diversification could pay dividends
By John Hayward
This article is published on: 14th December 2013
For most people the aim of diversifying their savings and investments is to reduce risk. This is a creditable approach but the proof of its creditability can generally be seen over the long term.
The danger of focusing on the FTSE100
“The FTSE100 has gone up 50% over the last year. Why haven´t my savings gone up by the same amount?” Focusing on the FTSE100 can be misleading as it represents a small percentage of global economic performance and, for the cautious investor, is not a realistic indicator. If the savings had increased by 50% in a year, undoubtedly they would have gone down by a similar amount in times gone by. When putting together a cautious portfolio for the retired expatriate, who tends to focus on capital protection, firing 100% of the cash at equities would seem risky if not careless.
Investment cycles
The fact is that ALL investments tend to work in cycles. With a diversified range of investments, whether this is based on asset type or geographical area, history has shown us that when one might be going down there is another going up. If everything moved by the same amount, albeit at different times, there is the risk that, over time, nothing would be accomplished as the ups would merely counter the downs.
Timing the markets
There is an expression that it is time in the markets not timing the markets. The perfect situation would be to time exactly when to get into, and then out of, investments. There are not many, if any, that get timing correct.
The benefits of dividends
In volatile equity markets, dividend paying shares and funds can create cashflow. Whilst the underlying capital might be reducing in value due to a major global catastrophe in or mismanagement of finances by those in global authority, many companies could be making significant profits and translating these into dividends. There are funds which have been pay 5% or more a year in dividends. In time, whilst the dividend flow has been merrily producing the necessary income stream, the underlying investments should rise. One thing is clear. After a perceived Armageddon there has often been an opposite and greater Valhalla.
The long term view
The problem is that, as much as people say they understand the long term nature of investments, when there is a downturn in markets there tends to be panic. They sell when markets have fallen and potentially guarantee a loss.
The need to improve on bank deposit returns
The simple truth is that interest rates are low and are likely to stay that way for some time to come. Traditional savings are not paying what they use to. Low interest rates are great for mortgage holders but not for those who rely on interest to pay their bills. Therefore there is the need to find other sources for the desired income.
With a well-diversified portfolio ranging from deposits for today´s expenses through to equities for longer term needs, reviewed on a regular basis, the chances of having an affordable retirement are greatly improved. Wrapped in a Spanish compliant life bond, you can also benefit from very low taxes in Spain.
Whether it is QROPS, financial planning, or life assurance advice in Javea, Denia, Moraira, Valencia, Madrid, Barcelona or Malaga, we can help with your financial planning needs.
Who do you bank with?
By David Hattersley
This article is published on: 30th October 2013
Following the recent “Le Tour de Finance” seminar at the Marriott Hotel in Denia, one of the attendees approached me with interesting tale. The Lady was a British expatriate and long term resident in the Javea area. Like many retried expatriates she had been concerned about the security of her assets following banking issues in both UK and Spain, post 2008. She told me she had always felt safe banking with British household names whether at home or abroad. She was shocked to learn that Lloyds Bank’s Spanish operations had been sold to Banco Sabadell.
She felt this had not been properly publicised and she had not had clear information about the change from the bank. She visited her local branch and was surprised that the staff knew little about the change of ownership.
I was able to explain the €100,000 per account deposit guarantee scheme, guaranteed by the Spanish Government in the same way as UK bank deposits are guaranteed by the British Government to the tune of £85,000. This Lady had clearly done her homework and pointed out that the guarantee is per banking group and not per account. We agreed that bank accounts were necessary for emergency funds even when, given current interest rates they were guaranteed to lose money in real, spending power terms. We also agreed that for longer term investing, especially for income, there were much better options out there, one particular proposition from the Prudential, (fully Spanish compliant) had been highlighted during the “Le Tour” seminar.
Our motto is “With Care, You Prosper”, we urge our clients to take a very active interest in their finances, we are here to help our clients help themselves.
The Spectrum IFA Group & Tour de Finance Seminar Costa del Sol – October 18th 2013
By Charles Hutchinson
This article is published on: 18th October 2013
The Spectrum IFA Group & Currencies Direct held the final Tour de Finance seminar of the season on Friday the 18th October 2013 at the H10 Estepona Palace Hotel on the Costa del Sol, Spain.
The morning comprised various presentations by industry experts and professionals followed by finger food lunch and wines and soft drinks where guests mingled with the presenters and Spectrum staff to discuss questions and personal needs
The following gave presentations:
Jonathan Goodman introduced the seminar with a presentation of the company, who we are, how we do business and where and how we are regulated. Particular emphasis on client concerns and worries and how our top priority is to build a long term relationship with our clients.
Alan Lawrence of Blackrock stressed what worries and concerns investors, how asset returns have altered in both scale and type. Declining bond yields and income equities have shifted the risk profile of both Fixed Interest and Equity assets. The need now to rethink what is low risk and what is high. Where to obtain a reasonable income yield with lowest risk. The dangers of holding cash and how Emerging Markets are an essential part of a portfolio into the future. He ran through various currently recommended BR funds and special emphasis was also made on Gold and its outlook.
Alex Barratt of Currencies Direct showed the guests how using a specialist foreign exchange partner can save you money, both in the exchange rate margins and also in the charges free transfer service they provide, not only in Spain and Europe but all over the world. Of particular interest is that they have made an agreement with a major Spanish bank to provide charges free transfers to and from a client’s account which CD will set up on their behalf.
Andrew Wallace of Prudential International emphasised the strength and history of the company globally, their credit ratings, assets under management and number of clients worldwide. It was unique presentation in the session in that he majored on International Investment Bonds, their value to an investor and the various tax advantages of wrapping one’s investments within them. He then went on to explain the Spanish Compliant Bond and its value to the Spanish resident.
Michael Lodhi, our venerable leader and spiritual guide, repeated what he said at earlier seminars around Europe, viz: Spectrum addresses client concerns for tax efficiency, investment returns, pensions and inheritance tax planning. He highlighted the effects of inflation on essential expenditure and how important it is to regularly review your investments to ensure their constant effectiveness. He went on to explain QROPS (transferring your UK based pension abroad) and the importance of taking unbiased advice to see whether it is suitable for all.
Whether you want to register for our newsletter, attend one of our road shows in 2014 or speak to me directly, please call or email me on the contacts below and I will be glad to help you. We do not charge for reviews, reports or recommendations that we provide.
ARE YOU PAYING TOO MUCH TAX ON YOUR SAVINGS?
By John Hayward
This article is published on: 12th October 2013
Offshore Spanish-tax-compliant investments
All financial planning advice provided by us is done so using and within insurance contracts that are highly tax efficient in Spain.
For residents of Spain, there is an opportunity to save thousands in tax by structuring investments in the right way. These investments need not, and through us will not, be based in Spain. However, they are recognised by the Spanish as being legitimate for Spanish tax purposes.
Under normal circumstances, if you have a bank deposit, tax will be deducted at source. This is irrespective of whether it is an onshore account, where the local savings tax will be applied, or if it is offshore, and undeclared, where the EU Savings Directive tax kicks in. However, whereas you might be paying 20% tax on the onshore account, you could be having 35% tax deducted from an undeclared offshore account.
Within a Spanish tax compliant investment, you only get taxed when you make a withdrawal. This means that you can defer paying tax for as long as you live. In addition, the rate of tax applied is capital gains tax, currently at a base of 21%.
Also, the amount of the withdrawal which is taxable is very small, especially in the early years, as it is deemed that the majority of the money you are withdrawing is your original capital.
Unlike capital gains tax in the UK, no further tax will be payable if you are a higher rate tax payer. The tax payable is based on the gain, not on your overall income.
These calculations are based on our understanding of Spanish tax law which is subject to alteration.
For more information contact your local adviser or use the contact form below.