In today’s world of cross-border families and global assets, the traditional South African trust is no longer always fit for purpose. Clients and advisors alike are asking: “Should we be thinking beyond local structures?”
Here’s a quick comparison that might help:
A South African trust is governed by local law and overseen by the Master of the High Court. Trustees are often family members or local advisors, and while useful for basic estate planning, these trusts face tightening tax rules, attribution of income, and exchange control constraints. Confidentiality is also diminishing under new disclosure requirements.
By contrast, an international trust, such as one structured through TrustQore in Mauritius, BVI or Switzerland, offers a different level of structure and strategic value. These trusts are professionally managed, legally robust, and allow for global asset protection, greater confidentiality, and long-term succession planning. They’re tax neutral, exchange control friendly, and designed with international families in mind.
✅ The key takeaway?
An international trust isn’t just an offshore version of a local one. It’s a completely different governance model—purpose-built for modern, mobile wealth.
If you’re exploring how to future-proof your wealth or guide your clients beyond borders, we’re here to help.
Let’s talk.