We will consider the growing challenges posed by asset-rich but liquidity-poor foundations and trusts, including so-called “zombie” structures linked to sanctioned or restricted individuals. It will explore the regulatory, insolvency and practical litigation issues that arise when entities hold significant assets but lack access to cash or banking facilities. The discussion will address whether trusts or foundations can meaningfully enter insolvency processes, and how such structures can defend or manage legal proceedings when funding is constrained or unavailable. 

We will consider how matrimonial property regimes are affected when individuals move between jurisdictions. It will explore the interaction between differing legal systems on ownership and financial claims, with a focus on cross-border structuring and practical issues arising in international relationships. The discussion will also consider emerging developments, including relevant EU regulations, and their potential impact on future cases and planning. 

We will explore the litigation risks that arise when trust and corporate structures come under scrutiny. Our facilitators will examine the principles and practical application of veil piercing, sham and illusory trust arguments, and related doctrines used to challenge arrangements in contentious private wealth disputes. The discussion will focus on how courts assess intent, control, and substance over form, and what these developments mean for advisers structuring wealth in an increasingly adversarial environment. 

This session looks at key issues in private client law affecting high-value assets, including luxury property and alpine chalets. It will cover ownership structures, succession and matrimonial considerations, and the practical challenges faced by international clients holding luxury assets in France and other jurisdictions. The discussion will also highlight tax and regulatory touchpoints, with a focus on avoiding common pitfalls in structuring and managing cross-border luxury holdings. 

This session will provide a focused update on current developments in taxation on capital. We will hear from jurisdictions as Switzerland which a long tradition of wealth tax but also from other jurisdictions that tax capital in other different ways such as Italy or the UK. We will hear about the new EU Commission report on wealth tax, capital and exit taxes and on the latest news from the US.